Craig Piggott

Finalist - EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2024 New Zealand

Halter

Craig Piggott's entrepreneurial journey began on his parents' Waikato dairy farm. With a passion for innovation, he set out to revolutionise the agricultural sector. After graduating with first-class honours in engineering from the University of Auckland and working at Rocket Lab, Craig left satellites and space exploration to focus his efforts on helping the sector he grew up around be more productive and sustainable. In 2016, at just 21, he founded Halter.

The company's solar-powered collar for dairy and beef cows, pairs with an app for farmers and allows cows to respond to guidance cues, enabling virtual herding and fencing while monitoring health 24/7. This innovation helps farmers increase milk and protein production.

Despite initial scepticism from farmers, Halter secured $8.5 million in funding, which later grew to $200 million, propelling the company to become one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing businesses with a thriving international customer base. Governments are also excited by the solutions Halter can bring economically, socially and environmentally.

Halter significantly impacts agriculture, with farmers reporting increased profitability and reduced environmental impact. The company is Toitū carbon zero certified and committed to reducing emissions.

Looking ahead, Halter aims to enter new markets and enhance its technology, with a vision to democratise innovative farming practices globally, lifting prosperity and reducing environmental impact. Craig Piggott's journey exemplifies the power of innovation and resilience in transforming traditional industries for a sustainable future.