Paula Kearns

Hi Everyone

I would appreciate your support for my nomination as an Elected Director of Horticulture New Zealand. I am standing for the role because I am passionate about horticulture and maximising grower returns while taking care of our environment.

I believe I have the experience and skills to contribute to the Board of Horticulture New Zealand and I devote myself to my director roles alongside supporting my husband manage our avocado orchard near Whangarei.

I have over 15 years governance experience on a variety of organisations including sport, health, horticulture, hospitality, environment and philanthropy. I will bring a strong strategic focus and extensive financial and risk experience to support growers and Horticulture New Zealand achieve their goals.

I am currently in governance roles with New Zealand Avocado, New Zealand Rugby League, Mahitahi Hauora, Mount Wellington Trust Hotels and Ministry for the Environment.

My qualifications are a Bachelor of Commerce from Auckland University, a Chartered Accountant of the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors New Zealand.

I am a grounded person and when not working I love spending time with family, friends, our dogs and horses.

Horticulture New Zealand is an organisation that exists because of and for its members. I am proud to be a horticulturalist and it would be a privilege to be elected to the Board and to be able to contribute to Horticulture New Zealand’s governance in the future.

Thank you for your support.