Visit the Massey stand at the Mystery Creek Pavilion (site PE51) and at the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Science for Farmers site from 10 to 13 June to explore how science innovation is shaping the future of the food and fibre sector in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Nature’s recyclers in action
With a focus on sustainable systems, Massey is highlighting the vital role invertebrates play in improving soil health, managing organic waste and supporting resilient farming systems.
Around 30 per cent of food is lost or wasted across the agrifood chain, from farms and orchards to supermarkets and homes, representing a significant untapped resource. Massey researchers are exploring how this waste can be repurposed using an unexpected ally: Black Soldier Fly larvae.
Associate Professor in Ecology and Zoology Dr Maria Minor specialises in the ecology of soil invertebrates. She says circular approaches treat waste as a resource, using processes like composting and bio-conversion to reduce landfill pressure and close nutrient loops.
“They’re capable of consuming up to twice their body weight daily. In roughly 15 days, they can convert organic waste into, on average, two to three kilograms of nutrient-rich frass (fertiliser) for every one kilogram of larvae, while reducing waste volume by up to 80 per cent. They are one of very few animals able to convert organic waste into usable protein,” Dr Minor explains.
Visitors to the stand can see the larvae, provided by the Bioeconomy Science Institute, breaking down compostable food scraps in real time and demonstrating how these natural recyclers convert waste into valuable nutrients.
Science in action with LI-COR
Massey researchers will also be demonstrating cutting-edge greenhouse gas monitoring technology at Fieldays®.
Following the recent acquisition of portable trace gas analysers, the team will showcase the LI-7820, which enables real-time measurement of nitrous oxide emissions from land.
Senior Technical Officer Eduardo Sandoval and his team will provide live demonstrations showing how the technology captures rapid changes in emissions across different paddock types, times of day and seasons. These insights help researchers understand how various crops and farming practices influence emissions, supporting the development of more effective mitigation strategies.
Mr Sandoval says the technology is particularly valuable in Aotearoa New Zealand given its unique soil types, management and farming systems.
“Building a deeper understanding of our own environment is essential to ensuring future farming practices and mitigation approaches are well-informed and genuinely suited to New Zealand conditions.”
Senior Technical Officer Eduardo Sandoval demonstrating LI-COR readings.
What’s new with Whenua Haumanu
The LI-COR technology plays a key role in the Whenua Haumanu programme, New Zealand’s most comprehensive regenerative and pastoral agriculture research partnership.
The seven-year programme, in partnership with MPI, focuses on understanding how farming practices impact the environment, with research spanning soil health, biodiversity and wider ecosystem outcomes, while maintaining productive and resilient farms.
Now halfway through the programme, the Whenua Haumanu team will be at the MPI Science for Farmers site, sharing research progress and connecting with farmers, communities and industry.
Visitors can also hear Massey researchers and staff sharing their expertise during several MPI Science for Farmers panels. Professor Danny Donaghy will speak on resilient pastures and climate modelling for the future at 12pm on Friday 12 June, while Professor Lucy Burkitt will present on freshwater and catchment solutions at 1pm the same day.
Nutrition Lab Manager Kelly Coxhead will speak on the Wāhine toa o te Whenua panel on Thursday 11 June at 1pm, where she will join other emerging female leaders to share insights into their experiences and the diverse career opportunities within the food and fibre sector. Massey’s Nutrition Lab provides accredited testing and consultancy for food, pet food and agricultural products, supporting clients worldwide with services including food safety, labelling, product formulation and shelf life.
Professor Donaghy presenting at Fieldays 2025.
Te Aho Tapu Hou: A new sacred thread
Massey is also highlighting innovation in sustainable materials through Te Aho Tapu Hou, an Aotearoa-first project transforming harakeke (flax) muka fibre into high-value textiles.
By combining traditional Māori knowledge with modern fibre science, the project is developing new processes to produce industrial yarn, unlocking opportunities for sustainable, Māori-led enterprise while supporting environmental restoration.
Visitors can see this innovation brought to life through woven textiles on display at Massey’s stand, showcasing the beauty and versatility of this natural fibre and the connection between art, culture and sustainability.
The project was made possible thanks to partners Muka Textile Ltd, Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao, Te Whānau Harakeke, and funder Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment Te Pūnaha Hihiko: Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund.
Connect with Massey
Academic and Future Student Advisors will be available throughout Fieldays® to discuss study options, career pathways and student life at Massey. With more than 150 qualifications on offer, our advisors can set you on the right course for success.
Visitors can also try ‘edible worms’ – chocolate-flavoured, worm-shaped puff crisps made at Massey’s FoodPilot, enter to win prizes by scanning their Fieldays® Smart Band, and keep an eye out for everyone’s favourite mascot Fergus, popping by throughout the event.
Related news
Waste not: Exploring how to feed the future with flies
Around 30 per cent of food is lost or wasted across the agrifood chain, representing a significant untapped resource. Researchers are now exploring how this waste could deliver environmental benefits, using an unexpected ally: Black Soldier Fly larvae.
Cutting-edge emission tracking technology set to boost sustainable farming research
The College of Sciences’ School of Agriculture and Environment has acquired two portable trace gas analysers, which will allow researchers to measure greenhouse gas emissions from farmed land in real time.
Sustainable science in action at Fieldays® 2025
Back at Fieldays® for another year of connection, collaboration and showcasing leading research and innovation, we’re delivering real-world, research-led solutions to the challenges facing modern agriculture.
