Drone tech to be on show at Farming Expo in Wairoa

Air Borne Solutions will be bringing this beauty to the East Coast Farming Expo in Wairoa next month for a drone demo. From left are Monique Horgan, Bayden Neustroski, Jamie Nyx and Scotty Horgan.

Tradition will meet some of the latest in technology at the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo to be held at the Wairoa showgrounds on February 18-19.

From the Eastland Building and Farm Supplies Fencing Hub to Guy Peacock’s working dog demo. From the Air Borne Solutions drone demo to the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Station Challenge, all will be well covered.

B+LNZ extension manager Ali Forbes said their commitment to the expo and challenge was part of their support for the wider rural community.

“The event attracts local shepherds, many of whom are the emerging leaders and managers of the future, and supporting their development aligns with our purpose and values,” Forbes said.

“It is an engaging and dynamic event that fosters strong team culture. The challenge encourages collaboration among shepherds as they work together to achieve a shared goal in a competitive, practical environment while upskilling at the same time.”

The challenge will run on Wednesday, February 18, at 1.30pm. Entries will open towards the end of January.

Forbes said it also provided the public with a meaningful insight into the skills and responsibilities involved in shepherding.

“It blends education, practical skill-building and healthy competition, making it both valuable and enjoyable for all involved.”

Scott Horgan, from Air Borne Solutions, will be demonstrating drone spraying.

He has seen huge growth in drone use.

“Workload and sales are doubling year on year, which is largely due to the drones’ abilities becoming greater and greater. They can fly further, faster, carry heavier loads and are smarter.”

Eastland Building and Farm Supplies’ Myles Vennell said a visit to the 2025 expo and the resulting “good” business from it encouraged him to step up and sponsor the Fencing Hub.

He will have world champion fencer Tony Bouskill on site and has extended an invite to Bouskill’s award-winning dad Shane as well.

“Tony is keen to talk to whoever has an interest in fencing and pass on the knowledge where he can,” Vennell said. “Most of our fencing contracting clients are short of workers but not short of work.”

His team will be available for on-the-spot quotes and will offer special expo deals.

“This is an opportunity to meet new people and find out what else we can do to support our farmers.”

The Fencing Contractors Association NZ has voiced its support as well.

Executive director Jaime Bigwood said they had seen the value of a fencing hub at the Northland Field Days where people liked that they could speak to product suppliers and more.

“Having skilled fencers onsite to share tips and tricks is invaluable to both the end users and the sales reps.”

Fencing was recognised as a trade in itself and the time and money saved by getting the job done by the experts was invaluable for many.

“It’s a great career for people who love to work in the outdoors and appreciate the gratification of seeing a job well done,” Bigwood said.

Working dog demos from highly regarded trainer and triallist Guy Peacock will run over both days of the expo.

“Shepherds and shepherdesses love their dogs and will benefit from the demonstrations from Guy, who will share techniques to help people get the best from their huntaways or heading dogs.”