Raised in the Waikato with a strong connection to the land and the primary industries, my journey in horticulture began in the early 1990s as a cadet on a mixed pip and stone fruit orchard. It was there I discovered my passion for growing both produce and people.

In the late 1990s, I joined a large, multi-crop orchard near Cambridge, where I deepened my technical knowledge and began developing leadership skills. A defining moment came in 2006 when I won both the regional and national Young Grower of the Year competitions, these experiences remain close to my heart, and I continue to support the competition over the years as an employer of multiple entrants and winners.

Relocating to the Bay of Plenty with my wife and young family, and into the kiwifruit and avocado sectors, taking on senior leadership roles. My career includes time with Satara Co-operative as an Area Manager overseeing two post-harvest facilities, then with Ballance Agri-Nutrients as National Horticultural and Arable Business Manager gaining huge experience in nutrient management and currently, with Apata Group Ltd as General Manager – Clients, Orchards and Business Development. In this role, I lead several business units, including Apata GROW, managing over 530 hectares of kiwifruit orchards and developing more than 250 hectares across three regions.

I have always been a grower at heart but can now call myself a grower having a shareholding in a 14-hectare orchard near Edgecumbe something I have worked hard for and, am extremely proud of, I’m also a director of a 61hectares Gold3 orchard in Gisborne.

What continues to inspire me is the opportunity to grow people. I strongly believe in backing those who are willing to give their all and helping them become strong leaders. The horticulture industry has given me so much, and I’m now at an age and stage where I want to give back.

As a director, I bring a unique combination of hands-on experience spanning 30+ years, extensive cross industry knowledge, commercial and financial acumen and have developed and executed strategic plans.

I am a quiet, more facilitative leader who listens, analyses and works with the team to find the right path. I’ve led major development projects, including a 111.5 hectares kiwifruit orchard, navigating complex regulatory and stakeholder environments across several regions. I believe in the importance of trust, transparency, and performance.

I respectfully seek your support to represent your voice on the Horticulture New Zealand Board—to ensure value for all levy payers, support sustainable growth, and strategically shape the future of New Zealand horticulture.