Digitisation is transforming how farms and orchards operate, leading to more innovation, efficiency, and productivity across New Zealand. Let's take a look at the Internet of Things (IoT), what it means, and how it can help farmers and growers.
 

What is IoT?

IoT refers to local networks of internet-connected devices and appliances that share useful information and data. The face of farming is set to change as IoT devices make life more efficient, safer, and productive on-site.
 

IoT on the farm

IoT is changing how farmers and growers use land and track their stock, assets, and equipment. Many New Zealand farmers already use IoT solutions such as sensors. IoT sensors can be deployed across a farm to measure anything from soil moisture to fuel levels.  For example, sensors can send alerts when valuable equipment is taken off-site, when a pipe is leaking, or locate a lost quad bike. They can also notify fuel suppliers when diesel or petrol tanks are low. IoT devices also have huge health and safety benefits. Sensors can be attached to tractors and heavy equipment to send instant notifications in the event of an accident.
 

Discover more

IoT solutions can automate tasks and give you more data to make better decisions. As a farmer or grower, you’ll gain more visibility over your business with a host of sensors and devices feeding information to your mobile phone or computer. Companies including Levno offer water, fuel, and milk vat monitoring services through their IoT-enabled sensors and devices.. Levno’s sensors provide real-time information on fuel and water management, feed monitoring, and milk processing.

Several New Zealand rural broadband providers, including Spark and Farmside also offer advice on how to get started with IoT. Get in touch with your internet provider to find out more.