South Island agricultural servicing business Molloy Agriculture Limited has taken home the Excellence in Primary Industries award at the 2025 ANZ Ashburton Business Awards. It was also named a finalist in the Excellence in Environmental Sustainability category.
“Being recognised is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our entire team. We’re proud to be acknowledged for the work we do to support farmers while caring for the environment,” says company general manager and director Henry Ross. “Recognition at this level motivates us to keep improving. It’s not just about the awards; it’s about proving that productivity and sustainability can grow together.”
Based in Canterbury, Molloy Agriculture Limited delivers a full range of services that span advanced spraying, agronomy technical support, liquid fertiliser manufacturing, supply and on-farm application. With a focus on efficiency, precision and sustainability, it works alongside growers to improve yields as well as safeguard soil health and waterways.
“Our goal is to help farmers grow smarter, cleaner and more sustainably. That means integrating technology with agronomic expertise to reduce waste, lower chemical use and maintain productivity.”
The company is New Zealand’s largest collector of agricultural hard and soft plastics for recycling, actively promoting circular farming practices. “We close the loop for our clients,” says Henry. “From supplying vital nutrients to ensuring farm plastics are responsibly recycled, sustainability drives everything we do.”
“Our vision is to be a sustainable, end-to-end agricultural business. That includes fully recycling farm plastics, reducing chemical use and continuing to innovate with AI and precision technology.”
Innovation is a core part of Molloy Agriculture Limited’s approach. Company founder and managing director David Molloy was the first person in Canterbury to introduce a high-clearance self-propelled sprayer, enabling precision management of tall, high-value crops.
More recently, it has adopted Capstan Ag’s pinpoint spraying technology and is now trialling Carbon Bee Smart Striker, which combines AI-driven weed detection with real-time optical sensors. “These tools allow us to apply chemicals only where needed, reducing use by up to 90% in some cases,” explains Henry. “It’s about protecting the land and delivering better outcomes for our clients.”
Alongside technology, the company emphasises community impact. It supports local schools, sports clubs and charities, recently matching a $10,000 donation with contributions from customers and stakeholders to aid families in need. “Strengthening our communities is as important to us as improving farm efficiency. When the local sector thrives, everyone benefits,” says Henry.
Molloy Agriculture also takes pride in its people and workplace culture. Its team of 33 skilled professionals benefits from structured career pathways, mentoring and regular in-house training. “We invest in our staff because our success depends on them,” says Henry. “From apprentice spray truck drivers to senior agronomists, we aim to develop talent that can sustain the industry for years to come.”
Its partnership with Bateman Sprayers further demonstrates a commitment to excellence. Molloy Agriculture provides sales, maintenance and technical expertise to ensure machinery operates at peak performance, and data-driven nutrient programs and precision application services give farmers confidence in their operations.
“Our vision is to be a sustainable, end-to-end agricultural business. That includes fully recycling farm plastics, reducing chemical use and continuing to innovate with AI and precision technology. Every decision we make is about leaving the land, our communities and the sector stronger than we found them.”
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