Kirsti Lovie appointed as new Horticulture New Zealand associate director

Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) has appointed Kirsti Lovie as its new associate director.

Lovie is a business performance and sustainability manager with Craigmore Sustainables and is actively involved in her family’s vegetable growing business. She brings valuable experience across both owner-operator and large-scale corporate farming models.

She also has governance experience including a commercial investment portfolio and several advisory and reference groups in the primary sector.

"I'm honoured to take on the associate director role with HortNZ,” says Lovie.

"I’m passionate about the future of horticulture in New Zealand and excited to bring my practical and strategic experience to the board table, while continuing to develop my governance skills and contribute to the sector that has shaped my career."

She is currently part of the Farmlands Advanced Directors course and says the HortNZ associate director opportunity is an ideal next step.

"I’m looking forward to building on my governance training with direct experience at board level, where I can observe, contribute and learn from some of the best in the sector.

“It’s an exciting time to be involved in horticulture, and I want to help shape a thriving, sustainable future for growers across New Zealand.”

The associate director position is a development opportunity for a future industry leader to gain real-world boardroom experience, contribute to national strategy, and be mentored by experienced directors.

The role is part of HortNZ’s commitment to supporting emerging governance talent and building leadership capability across the horticulture sector.

HortNZ board chair Bernadine Guilleux says the appointment reflects the organisation’s desire to grow a pipeline of future-focused leaders with deep ties to the land and a strategic outlook.

“Kirsti brings a unique combination of grower perspective, analytical thinking and commitment to leadership development.

“Her passion for the horticulture industry is clear, and we’re looking forward to her contributions as the board continues to navigate the strategic challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand growers.”

The HortNZ Board comprises nine directors -- seven elected by growers and two independents -- and meets regularly throughout the year.

Lovie’s term as associate director runs from July 2025 through to December 2026.