Nominations open shortly for Horticulture New Zealand Board election

Nominations for two grower-elected positions on the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) Board will open shortly.

The vacancies arise as current Board members Alistair Petrie and Doug Brown retire by rotation at the end of their first three-year term. Both are seeking re-election.

“These elections provide an opportunity for growers to contribute to the strategic direction of the industry’s pan sector organisation,” says Bernadine Guilleux, chair of HortNZ.

“The board seeks nominees with a mix of skills and experience who can help lead the sector through the opportunities and challenges ahead, and who are committed to HortNZ’s purpose of leadership, advocacy and influence for grower success.

“At this point in time, the organisation and board would benefit from board members that are able to provide insight and direction particularly in the areas of finance, risk management, science, technology and innovation, Te Ao Māori, education and training, corporate law and governance.

“We’re encouraging growers to think about the opportunity and putting themselves forward to help guide the sector into the future.”

Nominations open on Friday, 29 May and close on Friday, 19 June 2026.

If more than two nominations are received, an election will be held with voting taking place at the Horticulture New Zealand Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, 28 July 2026.

Voting will be conducted on a one-grower, one vote basis.

Eligible nominees include active grower members of Horticulture New Zealand, as well as directors, shareholders, trustees, partners and employees of active growers. Each nominee must be supported by at least two nominations from active grower members or affiliated organisations.

Growers from all regions and product types (both domestic and export) are encouraged to apply.