New Zealand vegetable producer becomes first in the region to use the technology at this scale
LeaderBrand, with funding support from NewZealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries under the Primary Sector Growth Fund, has welcomed the world’s latest technology in weed control to its Gisborne farm, revolutionising the way they farm and manage weeds.
The new Carbon Robotics G2 Laser Weeder uses high-resolution cameras, artificial intelligence, and laser technology to detect and remove weeds as small as the top of a ballpoint pen, without disturbing the soil or impacting the crops.
This new technology will be pivotal in helping the farm reduce carbon emissions, improve soil health, increase productivity, and produce a more consistent quality of crops, which will ultimately help Kiwis have more access to affordable leafy greens.
LeaderBrand’s general manager of farming, Gordon McPhail, said reducing emissions, promoting better soil management, and finding new ways to farm sustainably with cutting-edge technology is an important focus for the team.
“We’re always looking for different ways we can be more sustainable, and soil health is a key driver. This new weed management technology is another step in the right direction – it’s a huge milestone for us,” he said.
“This is a first of its kind to be used on salad leaf production of this scale, here in New Zealand. We are incredibly grateful for the funding support from the Ministry for Primary Industries under the Primary Sector Growth Fund so that we can commit to this project. There is no doubt this technology will revolutionise the way we farm, and it’s not often that we get to say that, let alone experience it right here in Gisborne.”
McPhail said weed burden increases the cost of production and reduces the quality and volume of crops LeaderBrand can grow.
“This new weed killer tech will significantly improve our efficiency, increase our rotations, reduce waste, and lessen environmental impact. It really is a win-win for our team and Kiwi customers,” he said.
“As we embark on our own trials, we’re focused on finding what works best for our scale, crop diversity, and local conditions. Every field brings its own challenges. We’re keen to learn from what’s been done elsewhere and to add our own insights, building on the data and AI technology which we would ultimately like to share with other farmers in the country.”
For LeaderBrand, the introduction of laser weeder technology is part of its commitment to ongoing innovation.
“This technology is all about creating better jobs that are less physically demanding and creating exciting new roles that will hopefully encourage more of the younger generation to get excited about farming,” McPhail concluded.
