FAQs

What is the Producer Extension Network NZ (PENNZ)?
PENNZ is a peer-led programme that gives native plant nurseries access to information to help them scale up, improve productivity, and strengthen their business operations. It connects producers with each other, horticulture business advisers and plant health specialists.

Who is behind PENNZ?
The initiative is a collaboration between Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service (TUR-NZFS) and New Zealand Plant Producers Inc. (NZPPI). It also brings together the experience of producers, researchers, business advisors and technical experts.

What is the rationale for the creation of PENNZ?
This programme is part of the government’s broader response to climate change via native afforestation and the creation of permanent carbon sinks. Scaling up 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 business advice and networks to help them implement change.

Who is the programme for?
This programme is for nurseries and plant producers in Aotearoa New Zealand who are actively growing native plants - or intend to grow them - and want to improve productivity, scale up, and collaborate with others in the sector.

How is the initiative structured?
PENNZ will operate from June 2025 to June 2027 with two cohorts of native plant producers who will be engaged in the network for a 12-month period. Each cohort will consist of three regional groups of up to 20 producers.

Where will the regional groups be based?
Regional groups will be formed based on where there is the greatest interest from eligible producers. The three regions with the highest number of successful EOIs will be chosen.

What does it cost to participate?
It’s free to participate. There is no charge to join or attend workshops; just time and willingness to work with others. However, producers will have to pay for their own travel/associated costs to attend workshops. Lunch will be provided at the workshops.

Will the programme fund my nursery or cover costs?
No. The programme is 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.

What is the time commitment?
Producers will be part of the programme for 12 months (June 2025 to June 2026 or June 2026 to June 2027) and attend four full-day in-person workshops. These are spaced quarterly to work around busy nursery schedules.

Do I need to be a member of NZPPI to apply?
No. The programme is open to all native plant producers, whether or not you’re a member of NZPPI.

What are the benefits of joining?
As a participant, you will:

• Work with a regional peer group of native plant producers

• Attend practical workshops on plant health, business improvement, and innovation

• Gain access to resources and tools developed specifically for native nurseries

• Receive guidance from researchers and industry experts

• Contribute to a stronger, more connected nursery sector.

How are producers selected?
Interested nurseries complete an Expression of Interest (EOI). TUR-NZFS and NZPPI will assess EOIs based on:

• Experience in growing native plants

• Production goals and aspirations

• Willingness to collaborate and share knowledge

Numbers will be capped at 20 per region and all decisions regarding EOIs are final. Unsuccessful applicants in the first year (June 2025 to June 2026) may have the opportunity to apply for year two (June 2026 to June 2027) if they fit the criteria.

Do I need to be a certain size nursery?
No. We welcome nurseries of all sizes. Whether you’re just scaling up or already producing large volumes, your interest in improvement and commitment to the 12 month programme and collaboration are what matters most.

Will I need to share business information?
Yes, to a degree. This is a peer-based programme where sharing ideas, challenges, and insights is encouraged. All sharing happens in a confidential group setting.

What happens after I apply?
You’ll receive confirmation that your EOI has been received. During May 2025 all applicants will be notified of out outcome of the EOI process. If selected, you’ll receive onboarding materials.

I’m an iwi nursery. Can I apply?
Yes. We strongly encourage iwi, hapū, marae, and Māori-affiliated nurseries to apply.

Will there be an option to attend the workshops virtually?
No. the workshops (one per quarter) require in-person attendance to enhance the value of collaboration and networking.

What happens if I am selected but unable to attend a workshop?
We understand this may happen. You will be in close contact with a PENNZ regional facilitator so you can discuss options. It may be that another team member from your nursery attends in your place.

What happens when the 12-month programme ends?
While the formal programme runs for 12 months for each participating nursery, one of its goals is to create peer connections that could continue beyond that timeframe. By working together in small regional groups, participants have the opportunity to build relationships and share knowledge in ways that may carry on after the programme ends.

How do I apply?
Submit your Expression of Interest by April 30 2025.

What if I’m not selected?
Unsuccessful applicants in the first year (June 2025 to June 2026) may have the opportunity to apply for year two (June 2026 to June 2027) if they fit the criteria.

How do I talk to a real person before submitting an EOI?
Contact NZPPI CE Matthew Dolan on matthew@nzppi.co.nz / 027 622 9255 or NZPPI Extension Co-ordinator Jacinta Harrop on jacinta@nzppi.co.nz. They can help you with any questions not covered here.