Dr Liz Shackleton shares her thoughts on her new role as Chief Executive of Animal and Plant Health NZ. 
Innovative solutions crucial for managing pests and diseases
New Zealand is grappling with weather changes and new or longer lifecycles of pests that can be devastating for agriculture.
Farmers and growers need access to cutting-edge innovations for managing pests and weeds before reaching crisis mode - so we can manage biosecurity threats, such as the fall armyworm, and keep farming productive.
What excites you about your new role at Animal and Plant Health NZ?
I'm thrilled about supporting our diverse member organisations, representing nearly 90 entities ranging from small family businesses to global multinationals. Their science and innovation play a crucial role in New Zealand's primary sector and economy by addressing biosecurity challenges, ensuring food security, and contributing to global competitiveness.
What are your goals for the future?
Our vision revolves around healthy crops and animals, safeguarding New Zealand’s sustainability. I will be engaging with government and industry partners to advocate for science, innovation, supportive regulation, and effective storytelling.
Urgent priorities involve removing barriers to innovation, fostering strategic partnerships, and adapting to future challenges.
What should the new government prioritise?
Unblocking access to innovation for New Zealand farmers and growers.
Our toolkit to tackle pests, diseases, and climate challenges is limited, posing a risk to the agricultural sector, exports, and food security at risk. This jeopardises New Zealand's brand and economy.
Collaboration is essential for addressing these challenges and safeguarding our nation's prosperity and reputation.
What misconceptions about the industry would you most like to address?
There is no rest stop on the misconception highway, especially concerning our industry and the primary industries more broadly. We hear less about collaborative efforts in sustainability and stewardship, such as responsible use and managing resistance.
We must continue to lean on the important tools that offer long-term and preventative benefits: biosecurity, disease surveillance, diagnostics, management practices, and abreast of the latest technologies to support farming.
