Agritech

Oxin1
Technology and innovation are at home in Marlborough. Here, agritech start-ups can validate their products and services with immediate access to customers who have real-world problems requiring solutions.

Marlborough is home to some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most innovative and pioneering sectors of the land and the ocean, particularly in wine, viticulture, and aquaculture. 

There are exciting opportunities for innovators working at the intersection between agriculture and technology, science, engineering and design.

Entrepreneurs are able to partner with large corporates to trial their offering 'in the field'. Plenty of initiatives are already under way, evidenced by these exciting tech and science-driven companies:

  • FlipFarm’s innovative oyster growing system
  • Oxin's autonomous robot tractors
  • Tātou’s app-based workforce management software
  • Medical cannabis by Puro
  • Forestry technology mapping by GeoInsight.  

Agritech activity

Technology is a key area of focus for the region's economy and is supported by an active programme of tech events and initiatives.

WinePRO 

Never before held in New Zealand, this trade event was held in Marlborough from 25 to 27 June 2024.

With the tagline ‘Vine to Wine’, WinePRO showcased the latest products, new technology, and connect the leading suppliers with members of the wine production industry. 

This event provided an opportunity for the wine industry to come together and learn about the latest trends, network with each other, and discover new ways to grow their businesses and improve efficiencies and wellbeing, with an exhibition showcasing the latest and greatest agritech gear.

The event has been a vision of the Marlborough District Council and Wine Marlborough. It recognises the importance of wine regionally and nationally, and the need to have a biennial event to bring the industry together across New Zealand and the world.  

Marlborough Tech & Innovation Hub 

Marlborough’s new technology and innovation hub will foster start-ups and boost tech and innovation businesses, increase wellbeing and productivity, and create local investment opportunities. The hub is due to open June 2024, find out more.

TechWeek 2023 and beyond 

Techweek was held across Marlborough in May 2023 with over 350 participants across eight events. 

Techweek is an annual, nationwide series of events to showcase and celebrate New Zealand innovation. From inspiring tech careers and networking events to the Annual Marlborough Innovation Day. In 2023 it culminated in a Forestry Hackathon – seeking solutions for forestry slash.

Planning for next year starts December 2023, so get in touch if you'd like to host an event, sponsor an event, be a speaker, or find out more about getting involved. Contact techweek@marlborough.govt.nz 

 

Tech hub coming soon!

Marlborough's Tech & Innovation Hub is set to open June 2024.

Based in Blenheim's CBD, the hub is for start-ups and innovators who want to solve real-world problems.

A small group sits at a table with laptops and notepads
Innovate Marlborough
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