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Regional representatives

Our regional representatives are a vital link for levy-paying growers, offering industry updates, information on new initiatives, and support services. They provide a direct line for growers to provide feedback and share their needs with the wider horticulture sector.

There are five regional representative roles, covering Gisborne, Central Otago, Southland, Canterbury, Lower North Island, Upper South Island, Pukekohe North and Waikato. 

Growers are encouraged to reach out to regional representatives for support and to stay connected with developments in the industry.

Arjune Dahya

Senior regional and extension representative (Pukekohe North and Waikato)

Based in Whangarei, Arjune is a past executive committee member of the Pukekohe Vegetable Growers Association (PVGA). Before joining HortNZ he managed a commercial vegetable growing operation in Pukekohe and ran his own produce business.

He holds a Bachelor of Agriscience (Horticulture) and in 2023 was identified as a KPMG Emerging Leader. Arjune will be a vital link for levy-paying growers in Pukekohe North and Waikato.

 

P: 027 336 4994

E: arjune.dahya@hortnz.co.nz

Tessa Rodden

Regional representative - Tairawhiti Gisborne 

Based in Gisborne, Tessa brings a wealth of experience from her background in horticulture, having managed orchards and worked in sales for various fruits, including citrus, apples, cherries, persimmons, and feijoas.

Living on a 12-hectare vineyard that was replanted in fruit trees following the damage from Cyclone Gabrielle, Tessa understands first-hand the challenges and opportunities facing the region’s growers.

 

P: 027 442 5546

E: tessa.rodden@hortnz.co.nz

 

 

Matt Thorn

Regional representative - Lower North and Upper South Island 

Based in Wellington, Matt has been involved in horticulture for several years. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services). He grew up on a hop farm in Tasman and his family has been involved in the commercial growing of apples and kiwifruit; he has also been involved with several fruit export companies. 

Matt enjoys working with growers helping and guiding them through the changing legislative environment and government network.

 

P: 027 553 7848

E: matt.thorn@hortnz.co.nz

 

Chelsea Donnelly

Regional representative - Central Otago and Southland

Based in Alexandra, Chelsea holds a Bachelor of Science and a Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Science. 

Chelsea has worked in orchards in Central Otago, market gardens in Australia and for potato growers in Scotland, she has also worked in conservation, education and environmental management.

Chelsea is excited to be back working with growers in Central Otago and Southland ensuring their insights and ideas are heard.

 

P: 027 478 0068

E: Chelsea.donnelly@hortnz.co.nz