Grow smarter, scale up faster
The Producer Extension Network NZ
PENNZ is a peer-led initiative to help native plant nurseries boost productivity, profitability and efficiency
It is a network that is shaping the future of native plant production in Aotearoa New Zealand.
What is the Producer Extension Network (PENNZ)?
PENNZ is a producer-led extension learning programme to help selected native plant nurseries scale up, improve productivity and efficiency, and adopt innovative practices.
The initiative is a collaboration between Te Uru Rākau New Zealand Forest Service (TUR) and NZ Plant Producers Inc (NZPPI) and was launched in April 2025. The programme is part of the Government’s broader response to climate change via native afforestation and the creation of permanent carbon sinks.
Extension is a hands-on learning approach that puts producers at the centre — it’s about learning from others, sharing experiences, and getting access to practical tools and expert advice. It recognises that scaling up plant production involves more than just growing more plants: it requires strong business systems, strategic planning, and access to the right knowledge and networks.
PENNZ has been established to provide native plant producers access to this information over a 12-month period and help them to implement improvements.
May 20 2025 update
Expressions of Interest for PENNZ closed on April 30 and the applications considered by TUR and NZPPI in mid-May. The successful and unsuccessful applicants have been informed of the outcomes. The next stage will be organising the in person-workshops for the successful applicants during winter.
Benefits of Joining PENNZ
Producers who have been selected through the PENNZ EOI process become part of one of three regional peer groups of up to 20 native plant producers who:
Participate in hands-on workshops focused on business growth and innovation
Learn from horticulture business advisers and industry leaders on how to boost productivity, streamline operations, and improve financial performance
Gain access to tools, resources, and best practices tailored to native nurseries
Stay ahead of the curve with expert insights and new technologies
Learn from peers, share knowledge openly, and collaborate in a high-trust environment.
The support is not financial. The programme is free for participating producers but no direct funding is available. The value comes from the shared learning and access to business tools and information.
Who was eligible to join PENNZ?
Producers who:
Currently grow or intend to grow native plants and want to scale-up production
Are motivated to improve business success, efficiency and sustainability
Are keen to collaborate and and share knowledge with peers
Can commit to a 12-month programme, which includes four full-day workshops.