BNZ will invest a further $4.2 million in AgriZeroNZ, the public-private partnership developing tools and technologies to help reduce agricultural emissions.

The follow-on investment takes BNZ’s total investment in AgriZeroNZ to $8.2 million.

BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says BNZ is proud to continue supporting AgriZeroNZ and its critical work with government and industry partners to accelerate practical solutions for farmers that reduce agricultural emissions while maintaining productivity. 

As one of New Zealand’s largest lenders to the agri sector, BNZ has a long history of backing our farmers. This partnership is about helping ensure they have access to the tools they need to remain competitive into the future.” 

BNZ and other partners have agreed to invest an additional $117 million in AgriZeroNZ. The new funding is on top of the $191 million previously committed and takes total funding raised to $308 million, with the Government continuing to match private-sector contributions dollar for dollar. 

Mr Huggins says collaboration across government, finance and the primary sector is essential to turning promising research into practical options for farmers. 

“New Zealand farmers are among the most efficient in the world but maintaining that position will require continued investment in research, development and on-farm solutions,” he says. 

“Through our partnership with AgriZeroNZ, we are helping to bring innovative new products and approaches to farmers faster and at an affordable cost, so they can reduce emissions while continuing to run productive, profitable businesses. 

Since its establishment in 2023, AgriZeroNZ has invested more than $80 million across 21 ventures, research projects and trials. Its portfolio includes inhibitors, probiotics, genetics, pasture, vaccines and wearable technologies, with some also showing potential to deliver on-farm productivity benefits.