The first-ever Enviro Conference, hosted by the Enviro Collective, is coming to Ashburton with a programme jam-packed full of practical tools and knowledge for those working in the primary sector.

Farmers and rural professionals are invited to attend the event, themed ‘Future Farming Success’, on Tuesday 15 July at the Ashburton Event Centre.

The one-day conference aims to help farmers farm for a healthier environment while protecting their bottom line.

Enviro Collective general manager Richard Fitzgerald says the conference has been carefully curated with real on-farm value in mind.

“We wanted to have something that would make farmers sit up and take notice and want to come along because there is something valuable for them," he says.

“We wanted to tackle topics that are typical, rather than just throw out a few speakers and hope farmers come.

“We have been very intentional about the topics covered.”

Fitzgerald says collaboration has been key in pulling the event together, with support from Barhill Chertsey Irrigation (BCI), Ashburton Lyndhurst Irrigation Limited (ALIL), Mayfield Hinds Valetta Irrigation (MHV), the Mid Canterbury Catchment Collective (MCCC), and Aoraki Environmental Consultancy (AEC).

With a mix of keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and an Innovation Expo, the event promises real-world strategies for navigating changing regulations, improving nitrogen and water management, exploring diversification, and building long-term resilience.

“We have around 20 technology businesses that are digital tools or advances in on-farm hardware that either enables farmers' decision making or enables them to physically execute practices that are good for the environment,” Fitzgerald said.

Fitgerald said organisations that support farmers to interpret data and make informed decisions will also be on-hand at the event.

“You’ve got the technology and the kit — but you also need the ability to make the right decisions based on that information. You need both parts of the equation.”

Keynote speakers include Geoff Simmons, who will explore the complexities of land use change in Canterbury, and Dr. Richie McDowell, who will speak on the importance of freshwater quality in maintaining farming’s social licence.

Mark Everest will discuss the future of farm systems, while New Zealand’s special agricultural trade envoy Hamish Marr will offer a global perspective on how our environmental performance impacts export markets.

Breakout sessions will cover dairy, arable, water, and diversification topics—giving attendees the opportunity to tailor their day.

With hands-on farmer case studies and the latest innovations on display, Enviro Conference 2025 is set to be an unmissable day for those committed to future-focused, sustainable farming.

Entry is free for farmers and $100 for rural professionals. Registration is essential— visit www.envirocollective.co.nz for more information.

By Claire Inkson