| 45 RURAL SERVICES » Groundspread NZ Groundspread NZ supporting its members While much of New Zealand’s agricultural productivity depends on effective nutrient management, the professional groundspread industry often works quietly behind the scenes. Groundspread NZ represents professional fertiliser spreading operators across the country, advocating for a sector that has become increasingly technical, highly skilled, and central to modern farming systems. It is focused on supporting its members on the issues that matter most, from workforce capability to regulation and environmental stewardship. “Groundspread operators play a vital role in supporting New Zealand’s primary industries,” says Groundspread NZ Executive Officer Sayesha Khosla. “Our members are responsible for delivering nutrient application accurately, safely, and efficiently, and the expectations around that work continue to grow.” Like many rural contracting sectors, the groundspread industry has evolved significantly in recent years. Increasing expectations around nutrient management, environmental stewardship, and operational professionalism have added further complexity to the role, while advances in equipment and application technology continue to lift capability. “Groundspreading today is far more specialised than many people realise,” Khosla says. “There’s significant operator skill involved in achieving accurate nutrient placement, understanding equipment capability, operating safely, and delivering outcomes that meet the standards expected by both customers and regulators.” Advances in technology continue to improve application precision, operational efficiency and operator capability. “As technology continues to evolve, so too does the opportunity to improve the way we work,” says Khosla. “It also reinforces the importance of training, knowledge sharing and ensuring people entering the industry are well supported.” Workforce development remains an ongoing focus, “Like many sectors, succession and workforce capability are important conversations for us,” says Khosla. “Groundspread NZ is committed to supporting members through training, professional development and initiatives that help strengthen the industry’s future workforce.” “This is a highly practical industry, but it also requires technical understanding, professionalism, and adaptability.” Professional standards remain The award winners group. Groundspread NZ recently brought members together in Napier for its Members’ Day Gala and awards. central to the organisation’s work, with the Spreadmark certification scheme continuing to provide a recognised benchmark for operators committed to best practice. “Spreadmark certification gives confidence that certified operators are meeting recognised industry standards and delivering quality outcomes,” says Khosla. “Our industry doesn’t operate in isolation,” Khosla says. “Strong relationships and open dialogue across the wider agricultural sector are essential if we want to continue adapting to future challenges.” Groundspread NZ recently brought members together in Napier for its Members’ Day Gala and awards, where operators from across the country came together to share ideas and recognise excellence across the profession. Groundspread NZ’s annual awards recognise individuals whose leadership, innovation and commitment continue to strengthen both the Association and the wider groundspread industry. At this year’s conference in Napier, the Balance Agri-Nutrients President’s Award was jointly awarded to Gary Carr and Simon Pedersen. Few people embody the spirit of service to the industry quite like Gary Carr. Susan Russell Over decades, he has willingly shared his knowledge, mentored operators, championed driver training and quietly helped lift standards across the profession. Simon Pedersen is a passionate advocate for the industry, spending years helping shape Groundspread NZ and the wider profession, through strong leadership and practical advocacy. Other winners included Matt Campbell, receiving the Ravensdown Young Achiever’s Award, Paul Hoyle, recipient of the Keith Andrews Innovation Award and the Graymont Emerging Talent Award given to Matthew Scully. “The annual conference is an important opportunity for members to connect, share perspectives, and recognise the people helping drive the industry forward,” says Khosla. Beyond GPS guidance. A better way to run your operation. Everything connected. Working as one. 0800 482 285 | nz.sales@tabula.live Tabula now brings planning, communication, tracking and proof into one system. Keep the whole operation connected and capture all work - in the vehicle and on foot.
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