The AERU at Lincoln University celebrates its 50th jubilee in August 2012. The fortunes of the AERU have fluctuated during the last fifty years, but it has continued to fulfil the role for which it was established; to research issues of importance to New Zealand’s agricultural sector and to the national economy. Research themes have reflected the interests and expertise of the Unit’s ten Directors and of the many staff members, associates and visitors who have contributed to its research achievements. Today the AERU undertakes a diverse range of economic, market and sociological research for an equally diverse range of New Zealand and international clients. This chronicle describes the influences on AERU research, the nature of its research, and the people who have been involved with AERU research during the last fifty years.