Grealish highlights opportunities for Irish agri businesses in NZ
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Noel Grealish has begun his engagements in New Zealand as part of the government’s 2026 St. Patrick’s Day programme.
Minister Grealish, who has responsibility for food promotion, new markets, research and development, has met with the Irish Business Network of New Zealand.
This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and New Zealand.
Minister Grealish took the opportunity to highlight the opportunities that exist for Irish businesses to enter and expand in the New Zealand market.
In particular, he pointed to Irish agri-tech companies that are successfully operating in New Zealand.
The minister remarked: “A key part of the St. Patrick’s Day programme for the government is to promote trade and investment.
"I am delighted to have the opportunity to help Irish businesses seeking to do business here in New Zealand."
Bioeconomy
In line with the ambition of the St. Patrick’s day programme to also highlight research partnerships, the minister visited the New Zealand Bioeconomy Science Institute and the Ag Emissions Centre, among others.
The minister noted: "I was pleased to visit a number of agricultural and bioeconomy research centres here in New Zealand.
"My department has run a joint research programme with the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries since 2022.
"I took the opportunity to visit some of the 11 collaborative projects taking place in the area of agriculture and climate.”
During his visit, the minister will have a series of Irish community engagements.
He will also meet with the Speaker of the House of Representatives Gerry Brownlee and the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry, Trade and Investment, Todd McClay.
Bord Bia St Patrick’s Day programme
Bord Bia has announced a global St Patrick’s Day programme promoting Irish food and drink across 15 countries.
The Irish food board's overseas offices will be coordinating over 40 St. Patricks Day events across four continents this month.
Irish food, drink, and horticulture exports reached a record €19 billion in 2025, marking a 12% increase driven by strong growth in dairy and beef.
