PENNZ enables native plant producers to increase production
About PENNZ
The Producer Extension Network New Zealand (PENNZ) is a producer-led programme designed to help native plant nurseries in Aotearoa New Zealand respond to rising demand and prepare for the next phase of industry growth.
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 business tools and expert advice.
This initiative is a collaboration between Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service and New Zealand Plant Producers Inc. (NZPPI). It brings together the experience of producers, researchers, horticultural business advisers and technical experts to provide real-world, research-informed advice for native plant production.
A one-year commitment that delivers real value
PENNZ is delivered through a three regional group model. Each group will be made up of up to 20 producers who will be engaged in the network for a 12-month period. The location of the three groups will be determined based on the Expressions of Interest.
The programme is structured to provide information and tools over this one-year period, including four full-day workshops, coordinated peer learning, access to tailored resources, and direct connection to expert advice.
Participants will gain far more than technical and business information; they will build lasting relationships, strengthen their business capability, and contribute to a more connected and resilient native plant sector.
The first intake is from June 2025 to June 2026. Interested producers needed to complete an Expression of Interest form by 30 April 2025.
The programme was free to join, but no direct funding is available. The value comes from the shared learning, expert advice, and access to tools and mentoring rather than financial aid.
Why this matters now
The demand for native plants is growing – driven by large-scale riparian planting, climate change mitigation, urban greening and afforestation programmes. However, a recent sector survey showed that while current nursery capacity meets today’s needs, the sector must scale up to meet future demand.
PENNZ is designed to help producers:
Strengthen business sustainability and growth strategies
Adopt new technologies and practices
Improve productivity and efficiencies
Share knowledge openly and solve challenges together.
What makes PENNZ different
🌿 Producer-led – the learning agenda is shaped by producers themselves.
🤝 Peer-based – you'll learn with and from other nurseries in your region.
📊 Business-focused – the programme is geared towards real commercial improvement, not just technical training.
🔬 Evidence-based – it connects participants to research and data, turning theory into practice.
Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service is the government agency supporting the growthof New Zealand’s forests. Through its native afforestation programme, it helps build the capacity of nurseries to produce high-quality native plants for restoration, carbon sinks, biodiversity and climate resilience.
New Zealand Plant Producers is the industry body for plant nurseries and related businesses. Its members produce seedlings and rootstock for food plants, native regeneration, urban greenlife, backyard plantings and forestry.