The role of science in shaping the future of New Zealand’s agricultural sector cannot be overstated, and the Whenua Haumanu programme is at the forefront of this endeavour. As the country’s most comprehensive study into the effects of contemporary and regenerative pastoral practices, this initiative, led by Massey University - brings together universities, Crown Research Institutes, and industry partners to examine the viability of regenerative agriculture in a New Zealand context.
Oliver Arnold, a researcher involved in the programme, is focusing on an area that has historically been underexplored - soil microbiology. With a background in microbiology and agricultural science, Oliver’s research delves into the physiological state of soil bacteria, microbial community structure, and nematode analysis. These elements play a crucial role in soil health, nutrient cycling, and overall farm sustainability. “Understanding soil biology is important for farming,” Oliver explains. “Scientists have traditionally focused on soil’s physical and chemical properties, but the biological aspect has been largely ignored. Bacteria and fungi are essential for nutrient cycles, making nitrogen and phosphorus available for plants, yet their impact has not been given enough attention.”
Oliver’s research aims to address this gap by applying scientific methods to assess the viability of regenerative practices. Using phospholipid fatty acid analysis, he can identify microbial groups within the soil, while fluorescence microscopy helps determine the activity levels of bacteria. Additionally, nematode analysis provides insight into the structure of the soil food web. These methods allow researchers to evaluate the fundamental biological processes that drive soil health and productivity.
The Whenua Haumanu programme is not just an academic exercise, it has significant real-world implications. With farmers facing mounting pressure over emissions, freshwater quality, and soil degradation, science has a crucial role in validating effective land management practices. “Science will be essential in identifying what causes negative effects such as nutrient leaching and greenhouse gas emissions,” says Oliver. “You can’t see these processes happening, but research helps us find ways to mitigate them. It’s about endorsing practices that work and preventing wasted resources on those that don’t.”
At its core, the programme is testing the claims of regenerative agriculture and comparing them to conventional farming systems. Given the growing interest in regenerative practices, both in New Zealand and internationally, it is vital that farmers have access to solid scientific evidence when making decisions about their land. “The project is useful regardless of the outcome,” Oliver notes. “If regenerative practices are scientifically proven to enhance sustainability and profitability, they can be widely adopted with confidence. If not, it prevents farmers from investing time and money into methods that may not deliver the promised benefits.”
Through extensive research across multiple sites, including Massey University and Lincoln University, the programme is measuring key indicators such as soil structure, pasture growth, nutrient leaching, methane and nitrous oxide emissions, and animal production. By examining these factors, Whenua Haumanu aims to provide clear guidance on the most effective ways to balance productivity with environmental stewardship.
Oliver’s passion for research is evident, and he sees his work as part of a larger effort to improve farming sustainability. His journey from growing up on a dairy farm in South Taranaki to pursuing a Master’s in Science, has given him a deep appreciation for the challenges farmers face. His contribution to the Whenua Haumanu programme is not just about expanding scientific knowledge but also ensuring that farmers can make well-informed, evidence-based decisions.
In an industry that is increasingly under scrutiny, initiatives like Whenua Haumanu provide a much-needed scientific foundation for shaping the future of agriculture. Whether confirming the benefits of regenerative practices or highlighting areas where improvements are needed, this research is set to play a critical role in guiding New Zealand’s farming sector towards greater sustainability and resilience.
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Angus Kebbell is the Producer at Tailwind Media. You can contact him here.
1 Comments
Great to learn of this programme.
For too long, in my opinion, there has been too much emphasis and (maybe vested interest) promotion of solutions out of a sack to drive increased production, reliant on limited systems for assessing soil nutrient status. For the latter, reliance on the Olsen analysis of water soluble P in the soil, rather than total P in the soil. I expect there is typically quite a large gap now between water soluble P and total P, given the century or so application of superphosphate to NZ farmed soils. There's no doubt that P applications dramatically improved pasture production on land developed from native species cover.
But, I suspect pasture requires a different mix of biological organisms in the soil compared to under forest, or scrub cover. How to introduce, retain and enhance the right biological species mix in the soil for pasture based systems, under NZ soil geology and climate. Perhaps Whenua Haumanu will look at this. Perhaps arrive at recommended optimal soil environment conditions (e.g. ph, porosity, carbon content) and develop inoculates and soil environment modifications, to boost soil biological function.
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