Summerfruit NZ’s grower networking events are back this year in place of a conference.
Last held in 2024, these events received great feedback from the many growers that attended.
This year’s dates are:
19 May | Hawke’s Bay at Black Barn Bistro, purchase tickets here.
21 May | Central Otago at Wooing Tree, purchase tickets here.
Both events will feature an overseas summerfruit expert, Dr Mark O’Connell, who will give an on-orchard presentation during the day before each dinner. The dinners will also include a celebrity guest speaker – watch this space!
Grower early-bird registration is now open, full registration will open to the wider industry later. We hope to see as many people at these events as possible.
Dr Mark O'Connell
Dr Mark O'Connell is a leading horticultural researcher specialising in precision orchard management and smart agri-technologies for stonefruit production. His work focuses on improving fruit quality, yield, and consistency through innovations in high-density orchard systems, regulated deficit irrigation, and rootstock and training trials.
Mark brings practical insights from decades of research into tools and strategies that help growers optimise water use, enhance fruit sweetness, and meet export market standards. His expertise in integrating technology with orchard management makes him a valuable voice for growers looking to boost profitability and sustainability.
