Fieldays 2026, Mystery Creek

Come and see us at Fieldays 2026!

Strengthening access to healthcare across New Zealand, particularly in rural and regional communities, is a core purpose behind the establishment of the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine at the University of Waikato. Visit the University’s Division of Health team in the Fieldays Hauora Taiwhenua Health & Wellbeing Hub to learn more about the programme’s strong focus on rural and regional healthcare, its community-based approach to medical education, explore plans for the new Health Precinct, and experience some of the digital tools and technologies that will support future-focused teaching and learning.

Location:  Hauora Taiwhenua Health & Wellbeing Hub, Site HW4

Making existing machines smarter, rather than replacing them, has the potential to make technology more affordable, easier to adopt and with faster performance improvements.  This year’s entry to the Innovation Awards by one of our talented Engineering students, explores automation technology for mechanical harvesters, using cameras, AI and real-time monitoring to help machines make smarter harvesting decisions. The system is designed to improve harvesting efficiency, reduce plant damage and minimise unripe fruit loss, helping growers get more value from every harvest.

Location:  Innovation Hub

The University of Waikato is also proud to sponsor Fieldays Tent Talks, a catalogue of engaging discussions and expert-led sessions running for the duration of the event. A highlight of the programme is the New Zealand Economics Forum @ Fieldays on Thursday morning.  Following its success on campus, the Waikato Management School is bringing that same calibre of sharp debate to Mystery Creek. Join us for two high-impact panel sessions moderated by Luke Malpass, Political Editor at The Post, as we tackle the big economic choices facing the future of the New Zealand agri-sector.

Session One | 10am Thursday 11th | Feeding the World in a Fractured Landscape

NZ's exporters are navigating an increasingly complex global stage. This panel explores how shifting geopolitical alliances are reshaping our role as a food producer.

Session Two | 11am Thursday 11th | Dollars & Dirt: The Economic Outlook

What do macro-economic trends actually mean for the 2026/27 season? This session cuts through the noise to focus on the financial realities of farming today.

Whether you’re a farmer, grower, entrepreneur, enthusiast or industry professional, Fieldays Tent Talks will help you stay ahead, ensuring you’re making the most of new technologies, trends and insights.

Location: Fieldays Tent Talks, Site D79

We look forward to seeing you there!