This year’s Innovation Series explores how innovation and sustainability are shaping the future of farming. For our first Innovation Series event in 2026, we turn our focus to water soil and biodiversity: how can New Zealand farmers continue to produce food and fibre while protecting the natural systems their businesses depend on?

With growing pressure from freshwater regulations, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss, the challenge lies in finding a balance between productivity and long-term resilience. Farms that support ecosystem services — such as clean water, fertile soils, and thriving habitats — are better equipped to withstand environmental and economic shocks. But achieving this balance requires fresh thinking, innovation, and collaboration across disciplines.

Join us as leading researchers and practitioners share practical strategies for integrating water, soil, and biodiversity management into modern farming systems. Together, we’ll explore innovative tools, land-use practices, and business models that reduce environmental impact while safeguarding productivity — offering a glimpse into what truly sustainable, future-ready farming looks like.

This special Innovation Series event will bring together experts from across research, industry, and farming communities for an insightful and solutions-focused discussion on how we can align profitable food production with the health of our natural environment.

Wednesday 8 April
9.00am - 2.00pm
S1, Stewart Building, Lincoln University

Programme

9.00am: Welcome

9.15am: Session 1: Topic TBC

9.15am Keynote Speaker 1

9.35am Keynote Speaker 2

9.55am Keynote Speaker 3

10.15am Q&A

10.25am: Break 

10.40am: Session 2: Topic TBC

10.45am Keynote Speaker 1

11.05am Keynote Speaker 2

11.25am Keynote Speaker 3

11.45am Q&A

12.00pm: Lunch Break

12.30pm: Session 3: Topic TBC

12.35pm Keynote Speaker 1

12.55pm Keynote Speaker 2

1.15pm Keynote Speaker 3

1.35pm Q&A

1.45pm: Summary

2.00pm: Event finishes

Our Speakers

Watch this space as we confirm our speakers for this event

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