Tough decisions will bear fruit in the years ahead
13/07/2017
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch remains committed to Invermay, and is growing its commitment to southern New Zealand, writes its chief executive, Tom Richardson...
Media stories
A selection of the major media stories which have been run on the Invermay issue.
Lincoln hub plan doubted
31/01/2017
Otago Daily Times
A report by the Treasury has raised fresh doubts about a plan to slash more than 50 jobs from a Dunedin research facility and move them north to Lincoln..
AgResearch move delayed a year
21/11/2015
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch has again been slammed for bungling its restructuring plans after confirming it is delaying shifting Invermay jobs north.
Invermay opposes church neighbour
6/11/2015
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch is locking horns with the Exclusive Brethren over plans for a new church on the Taieri Plain.
Invermay petition response 'weak'
5/11/2015
Otago Daily Times
The "weak" response of a Parliament select committee to a 12,450-person petition about retaining a world-class Invermay is disappointing, Dunedin North Labour MP David Clark says.
Invermay technician jobs may go
25/09/2015
Otago Daily Times
Six technicians at Invermay near Mosgiel are among 83 AgResearch staff who may lose their jobs under a restructuring announced yesterday.
Govt still backs Invermay relocation
24/09/2015
Otago Daily Times
The Government says it still supports AgResearch's plan to shift science staff from Invermay to Lincoln, despite the wide uncertainty now besetting the crown research institute.
The AgResearch shambles
24/09/2015
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch certainly seems to be in a shambles.
Rethink urged on Invermay plan
22/09/2015
Otago Daily Times
Job losses at AgResearch reflect the organisation's financial problems and it should ditch its plan to relocate jobs from Invermay, the research centre's former director Jock Allison says.
MPs say Invermay report shows up flaws
19/03/2015
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch needs to do further work on its business case for restructuring which includes slashing jobs at Invermay, Auditor-general Lyn Provost says.
Clark 'alarmist' over AgResearch
28/02/2015
Otago Daily Times
Dunedin North MP and Labour economic development spokesman David Clark said turnover at the Crown Research Institute was evidence restructuring - which included slashing job numbers at its Invermay campus outside of Dunedin - at the organisation was failing.
AgResearch staff more disengaged
21/11/2014
Otago Daily Times
A leaked staff survey shows confidence in AgResearch's leadership has plummeted in the wake of its plan to slash jobs at Invermay.
'Rock star' scientist latest to quit Invermay
11/09/2014
Otago Daily Times
The fallout from AgResearch's restructuring plan continues and two senior scientists, one described as a ''rock star'', are the latest to quit its Invermay campus.
AgResearch's move out of the south
31/07/2014
Newstalk ZB
After a year back in his hometown, Newstalk ZB's Otago and Southland reporter Adam Walker looks at some of the issues which have got teeth chattering over the last year and what the future holds for these issues in the south.
War of words breaks out over Invermay jobs
28/07/2014
Otago Daily Times
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce and Dunedin North MP David Clark are accusing each other of playing fast and loose with numbers over job losses at AgResearch.
AgResearch planning further redundancies
19/07/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch is planning another round of redundancies amid accusations it is monitoring the communications of ''less than compliant'' staff members.
AgResearch paid PR firms $170,000
18/07/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch has come under fire after revealing it has paid almost $170,000 to public relations companies as part of its restructuring.
PSA, MP concerned at AgResearch's stated plan to shed staff
16/07/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch's expectation it will employ about 40 fewer scientists in 2015 than it did at the end of last year has added to concerns.
Invermay 'awful', visitor says
27/06/2014
Otago Daily Times
The mood at Invermay is 'awful' following AgResearch's decision to go ahead with restructuring, a researcher who recently visited Dunedin says.
No review of Invermay plan
19/06/2014
Otago Daily Times
The fight to keep genomics staff at Invermay has been dealt another blow, with the Auditor-general declining a request to review AgResearch's restructuring plan.
Invermay decision brings questions
06/06/2014
Otago Daily Times
Staff at AgResearch's Invermay campus learned their fate last week when it was announced more than 100 of them were expected to move north as part of the organisation's $100 million restructuring.
Scientists appeal plan to Auditor-general
05/06/2014
Otago Daily Times
A group of former AgResearch scientists seeking to have the crown research institute's decision on Invermay staff overturned has taken its fight to the Auditor-general.
Plans a 'sideline' after damage
31/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Any new work between the Otago Regional Council (ORC) and Invermay agricultural research centre is a 'sideline' to the ''damage'' done by the restructuring plan confirmed this week, ORC chairman Stephen Woodhouse says.
Nightly interview: David Clark
30/05/2014
Dunedin Television
Invermay campaigner and Dunedin North MP David Clark joins us to discuss the announcement.
AgResearch claims it listened to critics.
30/05/2014
Radio New Zealand
AgResearch said changes it's made to its original restructuring plan show that it has been listening to its critics. The institution is to move 250 staff to new headquarters.
Former Agresearch scientist criticises restructuring plan.
30/05/2014
Radio New Zealand
Audio - originally aired on Nine To Noon, Friday 30 May 2014
AgResearch defends major restructuring.
30/05/2014
Radio New Zealand
Audio - originally aired on Nine To Noon, Friday 30 May 2014
'Big step backwards': Labour would reverse decision
30/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch's decision to largely stick with plans to slash jobs at Invermay has just become an election issue, with Labour vowing to overturn the move if elected.
Anger still over changes at Invermay
30/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Changes to AgResearch's plan to cut Invermay's campus have been welcomed, but critics are angry most of its more than 100 staff are still set to shift north.
Invermay out on a limb
30/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch, in foolishly ploughing ahead with its reorganisation, has failed abysmally to take heed of what is best for agriculture, the economic foundation of this nation.
Best outcome for deer industry
30/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Retaining Invermay's deer farm and research capability is the best possible outcome, industry leaders say.
AgReseach move dumbfounds MP
30/05/2014
Newstalk ZB
An MP who fought to keep AgReseach's Dunedin hub as the home of the institute's sheep geonomics research has been left dumbfounded over the changes.
AgResearch confirms campus revamp
30/05/2014
Radio New Zealand
AgResearch is making only small changes to its controversial Future Footprint programme, after months of consultation with farmers and community leaders.
AgResearch opponents still unhappy
30/05/2014
Radio New Zealand
The small changes AgResearch is making to its campus restructuring plans have not done anything to mollify southern opponents of the much-debated Future Footprint programme.
A former science minister says AgResearch is being astonishly foolish in going ahead with shifting its genetics scientists from Invermay in Dunedin to Canterbury.
29/05/2014
Radio New Zealand
Audio - originally aired on Checkpoint, Thursday 29 May 2014
AgResearch commences design phase: commits to the future at four campuses, including Invermay
29/05/2014
interest.co.nz
AgResearch is commencing the design phase of the $100 million investment to revitalise its capabilities and resources and deliver better science to New Zealand
AgResearch makes changes to Invermay plans
29/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch has made some changes to its plan to slash jobs at Invermay, but the majority of staff will still be moving north to Lincoln.
AgResearch changes welcomed
29/05/2014
Newstalk ZB
The deer industry is welcoming a number of changes confirmed by AgResearch.
'No confidence' vote by AgResearch staff
29/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Invermay staff have approved a motion of no confidence in the leadership of AgResearch.
Renowned scientist's role axed
29/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Agresearch's decision to make Invermay-based senior scientist Dr Julie Everett-Hincks redundant has been slammed as ''short-sighted'' and ''just ridiculous'' by a Southland sheep breeder.
Invermay staff to learn fate in 'near future'
28/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Staff at Invermay are set to learn their fate in the 'near future', but AgResearch appeared confused yesterday about when exactly a 'final announcement' will take place.
AgResearch conflicts of interest claim
27/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Disillusioned AgResearch staff are saying the organisation is ''haemorrhaging'' scientists because of its restructuring plan, an agribusiness academic says.
Hamilton council chief denies conflict
23/05/2014
The National Business Review
Hamilton City Council chief executive Barry Harris has denied a conflict of interest associated with his involvement with AgResearch’s $100 million Future Footprints plan.
Invermay, water quality big issues at conference
23/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Southland meat and fibre would try to do everything possible to keep the sheep and deer genomics research at Invermay.
AgResearch restructure sparks call for independent review
16/05/2014
The National Business Review
An independent review into AgResearch’s controversial $100 million Future Footprints plan is being called for to assess any potential conflicts of interests among directors.
AgResearch refuses to put plan on hold
16/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch chief executive Dr Tom Richardson has shot down a request, backed by three-quarters of union members, to put its restructuring plan on hold.
Invermay visit warning
14/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
An AgResearch letter has warned former Invermay director Jock Allison not to visit its Invermay campus without permission.
Invermay backed by breeders
13/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
Perendale sheep breeders have entered the debate over restructuring at Invermay, suggesting the move of "world-class research" to Lincoln be put on hold for two years after the planned shift.
Grow Invermay, don’t close it
09/05/2014
Southland Times
Dunedin North MP David Clark argues that a Government plan to shift agricultural research away from the south makes no sense for Southland or for New Zealand as a whole.
The video that got Jock Allison banned from Invermay
07/05/2014
Farming Show
Here is a controversial video from the Save Invermay campaign - which got Jock Allison banned from the Invermay campus!
Jock Allison banned from Invermay site
06/05/2014
39 Dunedin Television
Former Invermay director Jock Allison has dubbed "pathetic" an AgResearch letter he says bans him from the site without management authorisation.
Ministry has "blinkered view"
06/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
A government ministry has been accused of giving one-sided advice in favour of slashing jobs at AgResearch's Invermay campus.
AgResearch confirms campus revamp
05/05/2014
Radio New Zealand
Southern sheep farmers are waiting to see if the Government will respond to a no-confidence vote in AgResearch for its plans to shift most of the research from its Invermay site near Dunedin.
Video launched to help save Invermay
05/05/2014
39 Dunedin Television
A video launched on the internet is the latest tool in the fight to keep Invermay near Dunedin.
AgResearch plan change still possible - email
01/05/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch "may well" change its restructuring plan as a result of discussions with "stakeholders", an internal email has revealed.
Push for AgResearch no-confidence vote
31/04/2014
Radio New Zealand Rural News
Otago and Southland sheep breeders are trying to muster support for a vote of no confidence in AgResearch's management.
Vote of no confidence
30/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
A group of sheep breeders has passed a vote of no confidence in AgResearch over its handling of plans to slash Invermay jobs.
Breeders not yet giving up Invermay battle
29/04/2014
MeatExportNZ
Allan Barber notes that South Island ram breeders, predominantly Texel breeders who convened the meeting with AgResearch at Gore, are still determined to achieve a rethink of the Future Footprints Programme (FFP).
Faster scanner at Invermay
29/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
A new CT scanner at Invermay will provide South Island sheep and deer farmers with faster and more accurate carcass measurements.
Lincoln Hub plans gain momentum
24/04/2014
Farmers Weekly plus
The Lincoln Hub should attract more interest from the private sector with the appointment of a project manager for the facilities and a full-time chairman, AgResearch chairman Sam Robinson says.
Allan Barber reviews the difficulties AgResearch is having selling their restructure plans to staff, local communities and the breeder industry players who are most affected
24/04/2014
Rural News
South Island ram breeders, predominantly Texel breeders who convened the meeting with AgResearch at Gore, are still determined to achieve a rethink of the Future Footprints Programme.
MP taken to task over AgResearch criticism
24/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
Dunedin North Labour MP Dr David Clark has been accused of getting his facts wrong in criticising AgResearch's appointment of a project management firm.
AgResearch changing course
23/04/2014
CountryWide
It’s no surprise that AgResearch’s Future Footprint Plan has gone down like a lead balloon with the southern farming fraternity.
Scepticism at AgResearch offer to consult ram breeders
23/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
A leading sheep breeder says an AgResearch offer of further consultation on its restructuring plan has come too late.
AgResearch 'in panic mode'
22/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
The appointment of an external company to manage AgResearch's restructuring plan shows it is in "panic mode", Dunedin North Labour MP David Clark says.
Sheep breeders stand firm on AgResearch
21/04/2014
New Zealand Star
A group of southern sheep breeders are standing by their call for a vote of no confidence in the board of AgResearch.
'Hard times' ahead of bright future for Lincoln University
19/04/2014
The Press
Big changes are afoot at Lincoln University. Philip Matthews reports.
Invermay's top science manager latest to resign
17/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
Another top staff member at AgResearch has resigned, citing its restructuring plan as a reason for leaving.
Put plans on hold, PSA tells institute
16/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
Public Service Association union members are urging AgResearch to put its Future Footprint plans on hold and rework the proposal with 'good levels' of genuine community, stakeholder, staff and union engagement.
Project management appointment to progress AgResearch campus hub plans
16/04/2014
MeatExportNZ
New Zealand’s agricultural and food innovation hubs are one step closer to reality with the appointment of a leading project management firm.
Cunliffe attacks Dunedin 'vendetta'
15/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
The Government had a vendetta against Dunedin, Labour Party leader David Cunliffe said in an interview in the city yesterday.
Ag-Research ‘no confidence’ vote
14/04/2014
CountryTV
Otago and Southland sheep breeders are rallying to get support for a vote of no confidence in AgResearch’s management.
Dunedin MP plans to keep growing petition to save Invermay
09/04/2014
39 Dunedin Television
A Dunedin opposition MP plans to keep growing his petition to save Invermay, despite it reaching 5000 signatures.
Invermay verdict 'in couple of months'
08/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
Former Dunedin North MP Pete Hodgson said finally getting a timeline on AgResearch's plan was good news for the prospects of saving Invermay jobs.
AgResearch restructure - Pete Hodgson
07/04/2014
Radio New Zealand Nine to Noon
Interview with top AgResearch scientist Suzanne Rasmussen. She says plan will fail because scientists won't move.
AgResearch restructure - Susannne Rasmussen
07/04/2014
Radio New Zealand
Audio - originally aired on Nine To Noon, Monday 7 April 2014
Scientist says restructuring won't work
07/04/2014
Radio New Zealand
A top AgResearch scientist who has resigned over a controversial relocation plan is warning it is doomed to fail.
Agricultural scientists backed
04/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
Agresearch's plan to downsize Invermay is sending the wrong message to the next generation of potential scientists, University of Waikato professor of agribusiness Jacqueline Rowarth says.
'Morale low, staff scared' at AgResearch
04/04/2014
Otago Daily Times
A former AgResearch principal scientist, who resigned over its restructuring plan, says morale is bad and there is a general sense among staff at the organisation of "being very scared".
AgResearch gets the message in Gore
28/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
Organisers of a sheep breeders' meeting on possible downsizing of Invermay research facility say AgResearch management must seriously consider the message from the meeting.
Job losses at Lincoln University
25/03/2014
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
One in 10 staff may lose their jobs at Lincoln University as it revamps the qualifications on offer.
Swords cross at Invermay meeting
21/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
Sheep and deer breeders across the Otago region will be hit hard by the closing of the AgResearch Invermay facility, opponents of the plan say.
Joyce dismisses Clark's AgResearch claims
20/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce said yesterday he had no concerns about the progress of AgResearch farm sales and lashed out at comments by Dunedin North Labour MP David Clark.
Consult call to AgResearch
18/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
Farmers at Beef and Lamb New Zealand's annual meeting made an almost unanimous call for AgResearch to carry out more consultation over its plan to slash Invermay jobs.
Farmers angry with AgResearch
18/03/2014
Homepaddock
AgResearch Chief Executive Dr Tom Richardson said last week’s meeting with farmers in Gore was constructive over plans to move scientists from Invermay to Lincoln was constructive.
AgResearch in for a grilling
11/03/2014
Straight Furrow
There's a strong body of opinion that scaling down Invermay is a big mistake.
Farmers urged to voice opposition to hub move
04/03/2014
Stuff
Southern farmers opposed to AgResearch relocating its Invermay hub in Otago to Lincoln in Canterbury are being urged to attend a consultation meeting in Gore this month.
Inquiry rejection a 'slap in the face'
15/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
The rejection of a call for an independent inquiry into AgResearch's restructuring plan has been called a "slap in the face" to the people of Otago and Southland.
Buying Invermay 'nice idea in theory'
15/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
A suggestion that a company, involving various stakeholders, be formed to buy Invermay has been described as a "nice idea in theory" but one that would probably not work in practice.
AgResearch building spend slammed
14/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch's admission it largely squandered $15.5 million on buildings in 2007 and 2008 inspires little confidence its latest plan will be a success, two former staff say.
Southern farmers confront AgResearch
14/03/2014
Radio New Zealand
AgResearch is not holding out much hope of significant changes to its plan to relocate most of the scientists from its Invermay research centre near Dunedin.
Invermay 'myth' denied, doubt remains
13/03/2014
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
AgResearch will keep the Invermay research centre open but still plans to shift its animal production unit to Lincoln.
'There will be huge fallout'
13/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch's plan to slash the number of scientists at Invermay came under sustained attack at a sheep breeders' meeting in Gore yesterday.
Message for minister: 'We are angry'
13/03/2014
Radio New Zealand
Otago and Southland sheep breeders have unanimously rejected an AgResearch plan to shift most of its science staff from Invermay near Dunedin.
Invermay 'vital for science': farmers
13/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
For the past 40 years, Millers Flat farmer Peter Macdougall has used science from Invermay to develop his hill-country property.
Constructive AgResearch farmer meeting
12/03/2014
AgResearch News
AgResearch Chief Executive Dr Tom Richardson is describing today’s meeting with farmers in Gore as constructive and a good opportunity to share our plans and talk with farmers from Southland and Otago.
Sheep breeders back Invermay
12/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
A survey showing 92.1% of sheep breeders are against shifting Invermay jobs north is yet more damning evidence against AgResearch's proposal, the survey's author, Dr Jock Allison, says.
Steven Joyce 'must hold full independent inquiry'
12/03/2014
Voxy.co.nz
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce must order a full independent inquiry into AgResearch’s restructuring plans, Labour’s MP for Dunedin North David Clark says.
AgResearch faces grilling from irate farmers
11/03/2014
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
AgResearch directors and staff can expect some stern questioning from southern sheep and deer farmers in Gore this week when they are asked to explain their reasons for scaling down research at Invermay.
Assurances wearing thin
11/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
It is becoming increasingly difficult not to be sceptical about AgResearch's assurances that it has been open, honest and transparent at all times regarding its restructuring plans.
AgResearch faces grilling from irate farmers
11/03/2014
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
AgResearch directors and staff can expect some stern questioning from southern sheep and deer farmers in Gore this week when they are asked to explain their reasons for scaling down research at Invermay.
Farmers 'kept in dark' over Invermay
10/03/2014
Radio New Zealand Rural News
The Labour Party says AgResearch has been hiding from farmers the huge risks in dismantling much of its Invermay campus near Dunedin.
AgResearch hid risks of proposal: Cull
08/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch has been accused of hiding the "enormous risks" of slashing Invermay jobs after the belated release of its full business case.
Plan must be tested, Woodhouse says
08/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
Immigration Minister and Dunedin-based list MP Michael Woodhouse is not convinced AgResearch has yet made its case for shifting scientists from Invermay to Lincoln.
AgResearch CEO welcomes meeting
08/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
A meeting in Gore next week will be a good opportunity to "bust some of the myths" doing the rounds about AgResearch's restructuring plans, chief executive Dr Tom Richardson says.
Midday Rural News for 7 March 2014
07/04/2014
Radio New Zealand Rural News
Ex-AgResearch director disappointed over plans
05/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
A former AgResearch director, who was on the board when the decision was made to establish four "centres of excellence", including Invermay, is disappointed with the plans to cut jobs at the research centre.
'Why take Sheep and Deer industry research away from the areas of maximum production?'
05/03/2014
Rural News
A group of southern sheep breeders and sheep and deer farmers is strongly lobbying the government to attend a meeting in Gore to be held next Wednesday 12th March.
Invermay's key role emphasised
03/03/2014
Otago Daily Times
Deer farmers attending a recent field day at Invermay were urged to recognise they were "at the Mecca" for deer biological research.
Farmers want review of AgResearch plan
March 2014
Southern farmers critical of AgResearch’s Future Footprint (FFP) plan are demanding an independent external review, including an analysis of the status quo model retaining Invermay.
'Mission critical' remarks criticised
21/02/2014
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch's chairman has been attacked for saying only a small number of scientists at Invermay are "mission critical" to the organisation.
Alternative View - Destroying a pillar of ag support
10/02/2014
Farmers Weekly plus - Opinion
I believe a government’s support for the primary sector hinges on three key areas – biosecurity, food safety, and research.
Meeting on Invermay
09/02/2014
Otago Daily Times
Southern farmers will next month have a chance to air their concerns about AgResearch's decision to cut jobs from its Invermay campus.
Petition for Invermay
06/02/2014
Otago Daily Times
A petition to overturn a decision to slash jobs at Invermay was launched by Dunedin North MP David Clark in Dunedin yesterday.
Petition to reverse Invermay job cuts
06/02/2014
Otago Daily Times
A petition to overturn a decision to slash jobs at Invermay was launched by Dunedin North MP David Clark in Dunedin yesterday.
New partnership's genetic research
30/01/2014
Otago Daily Times
Dunedin-based consultancy company AbacusBio and the University of Otago are among research partners in a new collaboration which brings together New Zealand's sheep and beef genetics research.
Silence on Invermay will not do
21/01/2014
Otago Daily Times
Are we too stoic for our own good, asks Dunedin North MP David Clark.
No warning to university on Invermay
12/01/2014
Otago Daily Times
The University of Otago was not given warning about the decision to slash Invermay jobs and AgResearch declined a request to discuss restructuring plans before announcing them in July.
AgResearch, PSA at odds over survey
23/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
A dispute has erupted between AgResearch and the Public Service Association over the union's decision to release a survey showing only 1% of respondents were happy to shift as part of restructuring.
Joyce admitted method not robust, Clark says
20/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce has admitted there was no "robust and accepted methodology" behind shifting Invermay jobs, Labour's MP for Dunedin North David Clark says.
Save Invermay website to be launched by DCC
19/12/2013
The Radio Network
The Dunedin City Council has ramped up its efforts to try to save nearly 100 jobs at AgResearch's Otago base at Invermay.
Council ramps up efforts to save Invermay
19/12/2013
Newstalk ZB
The Dunedin City Council has ramped up its efforts to try to save nearly 100 jobs at AgResearch's Otago base at Invermay.
AgResearch critical of PSA over restructuring survey
19/12/2013
Radio New Zealand Rural News
AgResearch has criticised the Public Service Association for releasing the results of a staff survey about its campus restructuring plans.
Staff concerned about likely relocations
19/12/2013
Waikato Times
AgResearch staff fear relocation plans will lead to the organisation losing its scientific firepower, according to a union survey.
AgResearch responds to relocation survey
18/12/2013
Newstalk ZB
AgResearch has labelled a survey of its staff on the planned relocation of hundreds of staff members biased and misleading.
AgResearch staff favour leaving over moving
18/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
More than 40% of AgResearch staff who responded to a survey say they will retire or find work elsewhere rather than move as part of the organisation's restructuring plan.
Survey points to major dissatisfaction over AgResearch relocation plans
18/12/2013
PSA
A survey of PSA members at AgResearch shows only one per cent are happy to relocate, while a third of those who have been asked to move, have indicated they will leave the organisation rather than shift.
AgResearch change lifts deer industry fears
11/12/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
The organisation representing New Zealand's deer farmers has become increasingly concerned at the direction of AgResearch's restructuring plan.
Govt misled – Hodgson
11/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
Government documents show AgResearch "misled" ministers about a report which recommended growing Invermay, former Dunedin North MP Pete Hodgson says.
Uni details extent of collaboration
11/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
The University of Otago participated in more than 100 research contracts with AgResearch worth an average of $75,000 between 2002 and 2012.
Deer body concerned over plan
07/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
The New Zealand Deer Farmers Association has expressed "major concerns" over AgResearch's Future Footprint plan and says continuing investment at Invermay is vital for the deer industry.
AgResearch Invermay vital for deer industry
05/12/2013
New Zealand Deer Farmers’ Association
NZDFA adamant that continuing investment at AgResearch Invermay vital for deer industry.
Invermay support
04/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
The chairman of a Southland sheep breeding association is calling for a "thorough audit" of AgResearch over its decision to gut Invermay.
Process lacking clarity, Dunedin MP says
03/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch has been accused of lacking transparency over its failure to release documentation supporting its plan to slash jobs at Invermay.
AgResearch head's comments criticised
02/12/2013
Otago Daily Times
The relationship between the University of Otago and Invermay has been "unfairly" portrayed by AgResearch and others, the director of Genetics Otago says.
Invermay resignations 'appalling'
30/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch chief executive Tom Richardson has been accused of "fiddling while Invermay burns" after revelations seven staff have resigned over its restructuring plan.
Cull defends claim for genetics hub
26/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull has hit back at AgResearch's claim that opponents of job cuts at Invermay have made too much of Dunedin's so-called "genetics hub".
AgResearch stoush continues
23/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
The political stoush over Invermay's future between Dunedin North MP David Clark and Dunedin-based list MP and Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse continued this week.
BERL report 'subjective'
20/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
The head of AgResearch says an economic report criticising its case for slashing jobs at Invermay was "narrow" and "subjective".
Invermay proposal risks much
20/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch is playing Russian roulette with the New Zealand agriculture sector, writes Dunedin North MP David Clark.
War of words over AgResearch proposal
18/11/2013
Newstalk ZB
Dunedin Local Authorities and the Science and Innovation Minister are engaged in a war of words over an AgResearch business proposal.
Berl chief hits back at Joyce
18/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
The chief of the company which found holes in AgResearch's case for cutting jobs at Invermay has fired back at comments by Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce questioning its independence and the quality of its work.
Business case 'blown apart'
16/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
Independent analysis of AgResearch's $100 million restructuring plan has ''blown apart'' the case for slashing jobs at Invermay, local politicians say.
BERL report claims Invermay decision is wrong
16/11/2013
Radio New Zealand News
A report analysing how AgResearch formed a plan to shift 80 jobs from its Invermay facility in Dunedin to Lincoln is highly critical of the Crown Research Institute.
No response on staff loss
15/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch is yet to provide estimates of how many staff will be lost as a result of restructuring, despite a request from Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce.
Govt queries on Invermay
13/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
The Government is beginning to question its support for AgResearch's plan to slash jobs at Invermay, former Dunedin North MP Pete Hodgson says.
Invermay 'key staff' warning
05/11/2013
Otago Daily Times
Agresearch could reverse its plan to shift about 80 jobs from Invermay if enough staff refuse to move, Beef and Lamb New Zealand chairman Mike Petersen says.
Moving on to a life after Invermay
13/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch's Invermay research centre has been a big part of Bronwyn Smaill's life.
AgResearch shifts not set in stone
11/10/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
Proposals to centralise research in agricultural science at Lincoln in the South Island and Massey in the North Island are not a fait accompli, AgResearch acting chief executive Andrew McSweeney says.
AgResearch road show
11/10/2013
Southland Times
The AgResearch restructuring road show has started, with its executive team fronting up on stakeholder concerns for the first time on proposed changes for its kiwi science teams.
AgResearch board may be wavering
11/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
Those fighting to save jobs at Invermay believe their efforts are causing some on the AgResearch board to doubt the wisdom of the restructuring plan.
Date with AgResearch
11/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
The southern delegation fighting plans to downsize Invermay will make its case to a group representing AgResearch's board and management today.
Invermay dismay!
24/10/2013
Rural News
Crown Research Institute AgResearch says it hears southerners’ concerns about its plans to gut Invermay, but has so far avoided making any commitment to reconsider.
Very little of work with university based at Invermay: AgResearch
11/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch says "very little" of its work with the University of Otago is based at Invermay.
Farmers left 'out of loop' without strong Invermay
11/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
Agresearch's plan to cut about 80 jobs from Invermay Agricultural Centre will return Otago and Southland's farmers back to the "doldrums", a former Federated Farmers Otago president says.
Otago growth questions remain
09/10/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
A rosy Otago showing in the Government's regional development expenditure report has still left questions for Dunedin business leaders.
'Lost opportunity' with Invermay and University
09/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce believes opportunities were lost to strengthen research links between AgResearch's Invermay centre and the University of Otago.
Invermay a world leader, Israeli says
09/10/2013 03:59
Otago Daily Times
A visiting Israeli scientist says Invermay's facilities are the envy of researchers around the world and he was shocked to hear of plans to slash jobs there.
Developing regions Labour aim
09/10/2013 03:59
Otago Daily Times
Regional centres such as Dunedin are suffering, and Labour is taking their plight seriously and will revitalise them, Labour leader and regional development spokesman David Cunliffe says.
Varsity link unrealised
09/10/2013 03:59
Otago Daily Times
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce believes opportunities were lost to strengthen research links between AgResearch's Invermay centre and the University of Otago.
Reassurance sought over research programmes
07/10/2013
Radio New Zealand Rural News
AgResearch's campus restructuring plans are getting support from some agri-businesses, while others in the agricultural sector push for reassurances they won't compromise their research programmes.
AgResearch gets industry support for campus restructuring
07/10/2013
Radio New Zealand Rural News
AgResearch's campus restructuring plans are getting support from some agri-businesses, while others in the agricultural sector push for reassurances that they won't compromise their research programmes.
Dunedin stakeholders to meet with AgResearch
06/10/2013
Radio New Zealand News
The mayor of Dunedin says community and business leaders are to meet with AgResearch to discuss the Crown Research Institute's plans to relocate jobs from its Invermay facility.
Labour turns its focus to Heartland NZ
06/10/2013
Fairfax Media - Sunday Star Time (Epaper)
WHILE AUCKLANDERS worry about who mows their berms, Dunedin and Hamilton are reeling from real economic body blows.
City's economy the overriding concern
06/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
Is Dunedin's economy circling the drain?
Invermay's hub science linchpin
05/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
Opponents of AgResearch's plans for a new research hub at Lincoln say it will come at the cost of a vibrant existing agricultural hub centred around Invermay.
AgResearch 'wanted to expand Invermay'
04/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
A new leak reveals AgResearch made a submission to Dunedin City Council enthusiastic about expanding Invermay, only months before presenting plans to the Government to slash jobs at the facility.
Business case was 'shoddy'
03/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
The Government has been slammed after a leaked document revealed it approved a "shoddy" AgResearch business case for restructuring, which included slashing jobs at Invermay.
Retaining focus on what Otago does best
03/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
The damage from the downgrading of Invermay goes well beyond the loss of expertise in the genetics and deer groups, writes Barrie Wills of Alexandra.
Uni in talks with AgResearch
02/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
The University of Otago remains in discussions with AgResearch over its plan to slash jobs at Invermay and hopes to "influence" its restructuring plans.
AgResearch plan seen as risky
01/10/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
AgResearch risks jeopardising its farmer engagement as it forges ahead with its restructuring plan, Waikato University Agribusiness Professor Jacqueline Rowarth says.
'Cannibalised' for Christchurch: Cull
01/10/2013
Otago Daily Times
Shifting Invermay jobs north might be part of a wider Government push, which is seeing the rest of the South Island being "cannibalised" to support Christchurch, Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull says.
Push for more jobs revealed
30/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Leaked documents show the AgResearch management team evaluating restructuring plans pushed for more jobs at Invermay, not downsizing the facility.
AgResearch's Invermay blunder
28/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch, in its determination to concentrate research and administration in hubs in Palmerston North and Lincoln, is making a mistake.
Leaked documents: AgResearch executive overrules review team
28/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
There is anger in the South after leaked documents revealed AgResearch has ignored recommendations to save key parts of the Invermay agricultural research centre in Dunedin.
Relief over Invermay assurances Support, uni link to be retained
28/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Federated Farmers Otago president Stephen Korteweg says he is heartened by an assurance that dry stock farm system capability to support deer, sheep and beef farming will be retained at Invermay, and that AgResearch's linkage with the University of Otago's genetics team will be maintained.
AgResearch confirms Otago, Waikato job cuts
27/09/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
AgResearch has announced it will go ahead with its "Future Footprint" proposal to downsize operations in Otago and Waikato.
Restructure will force scientists out - union
27/09/2013
Radio New Zealand Rural News
The union representing workers at AgResearch says its restructuring will cost the country agricultural scientists it cannot afford to lose.
AgResearch shake-up a blow for agriculture
27/09/2013
Newstalk ZB
A major shake-up of the country's largest crown research institute is being labelled a long-term blow for New Zealand agriculture.
Leaders slam AgResearch consultation
27/09/2013
Radio New Zealand News
Southern leaders are furious that crown research centre AgResearch has apparently ignored proposals to keep genetic research at its Dunedin facility, labelling the plans risky and wasteful.
Battle for Invermay to continue
27/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
The fight to convince AgResearch's board to rethink its restructuring proposals will continue, despite confirmation of its plans to downsize Invermay.
AgResearch goes ahead with relocation plan
27/09/2013
Radio New Zealand Rural News
Crown institute AgResearch has made only small changes to its controversial $100 million relocation plan
AgResearch confirms job cuts at Invermay
27/09/2013
Southland Times
AgResearch has announced it will go ahead with its "Future Footprint" proposal to downsize its southern institute.
Invermay cuts still proposed
27/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Staff at Invermay are angry at their treatment by AgResearch management after being told the organisation is sticking with plans to slash jobs at the Dunedin facility.
AgResearch confirms Otago, Waikato job cuts
27/09/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
AgResearch has announced it will go ahead with its "Future Footprint" proposal to downsize operations in Otago and Waikato.
Regional Councils Disappointed at AgResearch decision
26/09/2013
Auckland News.Net
The Otago Regional Council and Environment Southland remain concerned that AgResearch has confirmed its intention to move significant numbers of staff to its Lincoln Campus leaving a skeleton staff at Invermay.
AgResearch confirms its reconfiguration
26/09/2013
Scoop
AgResearch confirms its reconfiguration While it will not be without some pain, the need for modern progressive agricultural research centres of excellence has Federated Farmers supporting the reconfiguration of AgResearch.
Disappointment at AgResearch decision
26/09/2013
Otago Regional Council
The Otago Regional Council and Environment Southland remain concerned that AgResearch has confirmed its intention to move significant numbers of staff to its Lincoln Campus leaving a skeleton staff at Invermay.
Further development of AgResearch’s campuses
26/09/2013
AgResearch
AgResearch has concluded the staff consultation phase of its plans to reinvest $100 million in its campus infrastructure.
No response from AgResearch over Invermay
21/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
The lack of transparency from AgResearch about the changes it plans to make to Invermay has been criticised after the crown research institute failed to respond in time to an official information request.
Hearing was fair, Cull says
18/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
A delegation of southern leaders who travelled to Wellington to fight for the preservation of jobs at Invermay feel they received a fair hearing.
Agresearch Invermay concerns raised
17/09/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
Political leaders from the lower South Island are meeting Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce to discuss alternatives to the proposed downsizing of AgResearch Invermay in Wellington tonight.
Cull accuses AgResearch of Invermay cover-up
17/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull has accused AgResearch of a "disingenuous cover-up", saying a letter it sent in April gave the impression it planned to invest in Invermay, rather than cut jobs.
Cull says hope still for Invermay jobs
16/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
A phone call from AgResearch's chairman has given Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull hope political pressure is being applied to keep jobs at Invermay.
Otago thrashes out its rising unemployment
14/09/2013
TVNZ Business News
Leaders from all walks of life discussed rising unemployment in the south at a summit in Dunedin today.
Key denies Government contribution to job losses
13/09/2013
TVNZ News
Prime Minister John Key has denied the Government contributed to large-scale public sector and manufacturing job losses in the south.
Key: Invermay not fait accompli
13/09/2013
Southland Times
Prime Minister John Key has denied the Government contributed to large-scale public sector and manufacturing job losses in the south.
Heartened by Key's response
13/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Prime Minister John Key managed to clear an "air of tension" in the room yesterday when he addressed the Otago Chamber of Commerce, president Peter McIntyre said.
Grilling likely for Key
12/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Prime Minister John Key can expect to face tough questions about the southern economy and the planned job cuts at Invermay when he visits Dunedin today.
Fear Invermay decision already made
11/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
The damaging nature of information and reports relating to the proposed restructuring of AgResearch, and in particular Invermay, may be why the government agency has delayed answering an Official Information Act request by the Otago Daily Times.
Sheep farmers' support essential for Invermay
10/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Southern sheep farmers are being urged to get vocal in efforts to have AgResearch drop its proposal to gut Invermay of more than 70% of its staff, and move elsewhere.
'Terrific' response from deer farmers over Invermay
09/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Former Invermay director Jock Allison says there has been a "terrific" response from deer farmers after a call for them to support the retention of Invermay's deer research programme.
Invermay involved in funded research projects
05/09/2013
Otago Daily Times
Invermay researchers are involved in two of six projects being led by AgResearch which have attracted government funding.
Invermay questions fair, English says
31/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Otago community leaders have "fair questions" on AgResearch's proposal to shift 85 jobs from Invermay, deputy prime minister Bill English says.
Southern leaders moving ahead on Invermay fight
30/08/2013
Radio New Zealand News
Southern leaders say they expect to meet AgResearch next week to put a case for reversing 85 planned job cuts from its Invermay centre in Dunedin.
South enlists former MPs
28/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Southern councils have reached across the political divide by recruiting former Dunedin MPs Pete Hodgson and Katherine Rich to the fight to save 85 jobs at Invermay.
English to meet over job losses
27/08/2013
Southland Times
Deputy Prime Minister Bill English will be given the word on regional economies during an electorate visit to the south on Friday.
Invermay vital to farmers
23/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch's decision to downsize Invermay and Ruakura is as simple as profit before opportunities to support farmers, writes Malcolm Deverson for the Clutha Agricultural Development Board.
Invermay: Ire at comments by AgResearch boss
22/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
The head of AgResearch has been criticised over comments he made stressing the importance of "regional innovation" in the Waikato, with politicians saying the remarks contradict his plan to "gut" Invermay.
Total Closure threat to Invermay
20/08/2013
Straight Furrow
Former director joins growing opposition to Ag Research's proposal to centralise operations.
South ready to battle for Invermay
15/08/2013
Southland Times
Southland support emerged as pivotal in a decision-making summit in Dunedin yesterday to stem regional decline.
South united in call to act
15/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Southern voices have joined together in an unprecedented display of unity to call for more investment, not less, in Dunedin's Invermay agricultural research centre.
Bid to hang on to jobs in the South
15/08/2013
Fairfax Media - The Press (Epaper)
Southern leaders are heading to Wellington with ideas to stem regional decline, after a summit in Dunedin yesterday.
South ready to battle for Invermay
15/08/2013
Southland Times
Southland support emerged as pivotal in a decision-making summit in Dunedin yesterday to stem regional decline.
Southern delegation to lobby for Invermay
14/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
A Southern delegation will deliver a message to Government about the need to grow - not cut - Dunedin's Invermay research centre.
Southern leaders buoyed by Invermay talks
14/08/2013
TV3 News
Political and business leaders from Otago and Southland have united in a bid to stop what they say is the South's gradual regional decline.
'Neglect of regions'
14/08/2013
Southland Times
The "cannibalised" south is preparing to tell the Government what they think of job losses and what many leaders south of the Waitaki see as neglect of the regions.
Southern regions 'getting fair deal'
14/08/2013
Radio New Zealand News
Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce says the University of Otago is proof the southern regions are getting their fair share of government investment.
South Island leaders discuss how to grow region
14/08/2013
TV3 News
Councils and business leaders across the lower South Island are today meeting in Dunedin to nut out ways of saving the south.
Regional centres being allowed to wither - Dunedin Mayor
14/08/2013
TVNZ News
Dunedin's mayor says the tertiary knowledge sector is crucial for Otago's economic future.
Decision on Invermay 'complete lunacy'
14/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Former Invermay director Dr Jock Allison has described AgResearch's proposed restructuring - and its effect on Invermay - as "complete lunacy", both from economic and science perspectives.
Summit working to keep Dunedin jobs
14/08/2013
Newstalk ZB
Southern business and community leaders are set to approach AgResearch with an alternative to moving nearly 100 scientists from its Dunedin campus.
Dunedin leaders develop job plan
14/08/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
Southern leaders are heading for Wellington with ideas to stem regional decline, after a summit in Dunedin today.
South Island crucial to NZ economy - Cull
08/08/2013
TV3 News
The mayor of Dunedin is leading a crusade to save jobs around the city and the lower South Island.
Exodus of scientists feared
08/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
An exodus of leading New Zealand scientists could occur after the restructuring of AgResearch's Invermay facility, former Invermay director Conway Powell says.
Invermay downgrade
07/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
What an absolute disgrace that the powers that be should consider downsizing or even closing, Invermay Research Centre. This facility has given years of loyal and extremely valuable research to our leading income earner, the agricultural industry.
Summit called to fight AgResearch plan
06/08/2013
Radio New Zealand
Dunedin mayor Dave Cull has called a southern summit to fight job cuts at AgResearch's Invermay campus.
AgResearch relocation sharply criticised
06/08/2013
Southland Times
Environment Southland has called on the Minister for Primary Industries to stop the loss of scientists from the Invermay Research Centre in Dunedin.
$100m centralisation stressed
05/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
AgResearch dropped a bombshell last week by announcing it proposes to centralise its operations on Lincoln and Palmerston North, while cutting staff at Invermay and Ruakura.
Editorial: Time for South to fight
03/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Enough is enough.
AgResearch relocations a 'huge loss' for University
02/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
The relocation of jobs at Invermay will be a "huge loss" for the University of Otago, which has enjoyed a fruitful relationship with AgResearch over the years, a professor says.
Dunedin Mayor unhappy with Govt reneging on regional promise
01/08/2013
Scoop
Dunedin Mayor unhappy with Government reneging on regional promise Mayor of Dunedin Dave Cull calls on Government to put its actions where its rhetoric is and reverse the trend of stripping resources from the regions and relocating them largely in one or two main centres.
Mayor alarmed at jobs shifted from Dunedin
01/08/2013
Radio New Zealand News
Dunedin mayor Dave Cull says government agencies are attacking his city's economy by shifting jobs north and the Prime Minister should personally intervene.
'Huge' legacy recalled
01/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Invermay's legacy was "huge", Neville Jopson, managing director of Dunedin-based consultancy and new venture development company AbacusBio, said yesterday.
Huge consequences to Invermay cuts: Clark
01/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Huge projects are at stake as AgResearch prepares to reduce staff numbers at Invermay and centralise on Lincoln and Palmerston North, Dunedin North MP David Clark says.
Anger at Invermay job cuts
01/08/2013
Otago Daily Times
Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull has called the plans by AgResearch to relocate 85 jobs at Invermay, near Mosgiel, to other parts of the country "appalling".
Big gains for Lincoln in AgResearch shakeup
01/08/2013
Fairfax media - stuff.co.nz
Lincoln faces an economic and population boost as the country's largest crown research institute plans to move the "lion's share" of its staff there.
AgResearch to centralise business
31/07/2013
TV3 News
New Zealand's biggest Crown Research Institute, AgResearch, will shift nearly 300 jobs from its Invermay and Ruakura campuses in an effort to centralise its business.
AgResearch jobs on the move
31/07/2013
TVNZ News
A proposed restructuring of AgResearch could see 180 jobs moved from its Ruakura campus near Hamilton, and 85 positions from its Invermay campus near Dunedin to other parts of the country.
Hundreds of new jobs for Lincoln
31/07/2013
The Press
About 215 Crown research workers are likely to be relocated to Lincoln as part of a major national restructuring of AgResearch.
AgResearch jobs on the move
31/07/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
A proposed restructuring of AgResearch could see 180 jobs moved from its Ruakura campus near Hamilton, and 85 positions from its Invermay campus near Dunedin to other parts of the country.
Editorial: Boost for Lincoln
01/05/2013
Fairfax Media - stuff.co.nz
The Government's plans to create a high-powered agricultural research and education facility at Lincoln are good news not just for the farming industry but also for Lincoln and particularly for Lincoln University.
Dismay over Invermay
Farmers Weekly plus
The future of New Zealand’s leading agricultural scientists and regional economies are under threat as AgResearch plans its future, with talk some scientists are already receiving overseas job offers.