Fieldays 2026: Beyond the field, a bigger stage for aquaculture
They say the mood of the country can be seen and felt at Fieldays and as a first-time visitor, it was impossible not to be struck by the energy.
A glorious Waikato day.
A sea of red bands.
A steady stream of people investing in brands like Stoney Creek and Swandri, and in farm equipment of every shape and size from cutting-edge, tech-guided machinery to practical tools for every job on farm.
It’s a powerful reflection of confidence in New Zealand’s primary sector. With the latest Ministry for Primary Industries, Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) June 2026 showing strong growth over the past 12 months and a positive trajectory ahead driven by global demand, free trade agreements, and continued investment in international relationships the sense of momentum is real.
But what stood out just as much was the future.
The careers space was buzzing. Young people, educators, and families were asking a simple but important question: What is aquaculture?
Through hands-on displays from Moana’s exceptional products to the fascination sparked by salmon smolt and what happens in a hatchery we had the opportunity to bring aquaculture to life. These moments matter. They connect future generations to careers that are innovative, delivering low carbon protein and are environmentally responsible.
And yet, walking through Fieldays, one thing became clear:
Aquaculture remains an untapped opportunity in this space.
For an event that celebrates the very best of how we produce food, aquaculture deserves a bigger presence. Not as a niche but alongside our land-based industries.
Because the story is compelling:
World-class science and research
Rapidly advancing farming technologies
Proven low carbon and environmental performance credentials
Premium products grown in Aotearoa and enjoyed globally
Imagine what could be achieved if we shifted the conversation from just the “field” to the full spectrum of food production.
What innovations could emerge if we shared challenges and solutions across sectors?
What connections could we build between land and water-based farming systems?
What inspiration could we spark for the next generation of primary sector leaders?
It was also impossible to miss that it’s an election year with strong advocacy and big conversations happening across the site about the future of farming in New Zealand and political party ambitions.
And aquaculture should be part of that conversation.
Fieldays is more than an event, it’s a platform. A place where primary industries connect, where innovation is showcased, and where the future is shaped.
There is a real opportunity here to move beyond the field, to bring New Zealanders closer to aquaculture, to deepen understanding, and to position it firmly within the broader primary sector story.
Because aquaculture isn’t separate from farming, it’s an essential part of it.
Tee Hale Pennington - CE, Aquaculture New Zealand
