BNI ambassador Oliver Corby says the BNI Horowhenua Discovery evening is an ideal opportunity for business owners to join this highly successful model.

“We invite all businesses to come along. The Discovery Meeting is free and catered and there are excellent speakers.”

Corby says there are four thriving BNI chapters in Kāpiti and five in Palmerston North so Horowhenua is the logical place for growth and he is expecting membership interest from those areas as well.

“We already have 20 local businesses committed to joining a new chapter and the Discovery Evening will be a relaxed, informative evening hosted by BNI New Zealand’s National Trainer Monique Bradley, joined by keynote speakers.

Most BNI Chapters hold weekly breakfast meetings starting at 7am however Corby says this is someting the members of the new chapter will decide.

“One aspect of starting a new BNI chapter is the great level of support available, not just from the region and nationally but internationally as well. This is a fantastic way to network your business,” says Corby.

When: Wed, 6 May, 5:30pm – 7pm

Where: Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō (Levin Community Centre)Levin.

A bit more about BNI

Are you a business owner in Horowhenua, Kāpiti, or the Manawatū looking for more customers, more referrals, and a stronger local network?

BNI Horowhenua is launching – and you’re invited to our free Discovery Evening to see what it’s all about.

What is BNI?

BNI (Business Network International) is the world’s largest and most successful business referral network. Members meet weekly to build genuine relationships, share qualified referrals, and help each other grow – all built on the philosophy of Givers Gain®.

With over 3,300+ members across New Zealand and thousands more in 70+ countries, BNI gives business owners a structured way to grow through trusted word-of-mouth. Now, BNI New Zealand is bringing a chapter to the heart of Horowhenua – perfectly positioned to serve business owners across the wider region.

What happens at a Discovery Evening?

This is a relaxed, informative evening hosted by BNI New Zealand’s National Trainer Monique Bradley, joined by keynote speakers. You’ll:

• Learn how BNI works and why it delivers real results
• Hear from experienced BNI members about the impact on their businesses
• Experience speed networking and other hands-on BNI activities
• Meet other local business owners, tradespeople, and professionals
• Find out how to become a founding member of BNI Horowhenua

Who should attend?

Any business owner, sole trader, or professional based in Horowhenua, Kāpiti, or the Manawatū who wants to grow their business through trusted, word-of-mouth referrals. Whether you’re well-established or just getting started – this is for you.

Event details

• Date: Wednesday 6 May 2026
• Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
• Venue: Open Meeting Room at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-po (Levin Community Centre), Levin
• Cost: FREE
• Catering: Full catering provided – food platters, tea & coffee

Places are limited – register now to secure your spot.

To Register see: https://events.humanitix.com/bni-horowhenua-discovery

MetService has issued a Heavy Rain Watch for Horowhenua, with forecasts indicating two weather systems will affect the region – one moving up from the south today, followed by a second system from the north overnight.

These systems are expected to be slow-moving, with periods of high-intensity rainfall and the potential for thunderstorms and localised downpours.

While Horowhenua currently sits under a lower-level watch, conditions in surrounding areas are more severe, with a Red Warning in place for Wellington and an Orange Warning for the Tararua Range.

What this means for Horowhenua

Council is particularly mindful of the volume of rain forecast for the Tararua Range. Current modelling suggests 200-250mm could fall in some areas. If this rainfall tracks further west, it could increase the risk of river rises, localised flooding, and slips within Horowhenua.

Council preparations underway

Council has activated a duty manager approach and is monitoring conditions around the clock through to Wednesday.

Contractors, emergency services, and partner agencies are engaged and ready to respond if required. An Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) is on standby and will be activated if conditions escalate.

As a precaution, Kimberley Reserve has been closed.

There is also the potential for the Moutoa floodgates to be operated tomorrow if required.

When to expect impacts

The first period of heavier rain is expected around midnight, with another potential peak between 6am and 7am tomorrow morning. Forecasts will be updated again by MetService at 9pm this evening.

What residents should do

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take simple precautions:

• Clear gutters and drains around your property
• Secure loose outdoor items
• Avoid driving through floodwater
• Keep an eye on rising water levels in streams and drains
• Stay up to date with official weather forecasts and Council channels

Stay informed

This is a complex and evolving weather event, and conditions may change quickly. Council will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Anzac Day remains one of New Zealand’s most significant days of remembrance. It is a time to reflect on the courage, service and loss connected to war, and to honour returned and current New Zealand Defence Force personnel.

A range of dawn, civic and retreat services will be held across the district, with commemorations taking place in Foxton, Levin, Manakau, Moutoa, Ōhau, Shannon, Tokomaru and Waitārere Beach.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Anzac Day continues to hold deep meaning for communities across Horowhenua.

“Anzac Day gives us the chance to stop, reflect and remember those who served our country, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It is also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together as a community, pay their respects and acknowledge the lasting impact of service across generations.”

People are encouraged to attend a local service and take part in this year’s commemorations.

Anzac Day observances in Horowhenua on Saturday 25 April 2026

Foxton 28th Māori Battalion Service

5.45am – Head to cenotaph for Foxton Dawn Service
6.30am – Service at St John’s Methodist Church, Avenue Road, following the Dawn Service

Foxton Dawn Service

5.30am – Assemble on Clyde Street, outside Foxton Memorial Hall
5.45am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.00am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place in Foxton Memorial Hall

Foxton Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, Main Street
9.35am – Parade assembles on Wharf Street and moves off to Cenotaph
9.40am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place inside Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom

Levin Dawn Service

5.45am – Assemble on the corner of Kent and Winchester Streets
6.00am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
6.45am – Return parade down Kent Street
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place at Levin RSA

Levin Civic Ceremony

10.00am – Parade assembles on Kent Street, past Thompson House Gardens
10.10am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
10.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō

Levin Retreat Ceremonies

4.45pm – The Avenue Cemetery
5.15pm – Tiro Tiro Road Cemetery

Manakau Special Memorial Service

7.20am – Assemble outside Manakau Hall to march to the War Memorial in Honi Taipua Street

Moutoa Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Moutoa Memorial Gates, Foxton-Shannon Road

Ōhau Civic Ceremony

3.00pm – Formal reflections and acknowledgement of Anzac Day at Ōhau Community Hall
3.30pm – Tea, coffee and Anzac biscuits, all welcome

Shannon Civic Ceremony

11.15am – Parade assembles at the corner of Vance Street and Plimmer Terrace
11.25am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
11.30am – Cenotaph Service begins

Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Shannon Memorial Hall

Tokomaru Civic Ceremony

10.00am – RSA and Country Club, Matipo Street

Waitārere Beach Civic Ceremony

8.30am – Tea and coffee at Waitārere Beach Bowling Club, Park Avenue
9.00am – Service begins

Road closures

Some temporary road closures will be in place to support the safety of participants and the public during parades and services. People are asked to follow signage and allow a little extra time when travelling on the day.

Wet Weather contingency

If bad weather is forecast, ceremonies will move indoors where possible. Any venue changes will be announced on Council’s Facebook page (@HorowhenuaDC) on the morning of Anzac Day.

Lest we forget.

The organisation is owned by the three councils, which will continue to manage water services until Central Districts Water begins full operations on 1 July 2027.

Board connects with staff and councils

The newly appointed Board of independent directors was formally welcomed with a pōwhiri in Palmerston North last Wednesday, hosted by representatives from Nga Tapūwae o Hau, which is a rōpū (working group) formed by the collective iwi across the three council regions to represent them.

They have three representatives sitting on the shareholders committee alongside representatives of the three shareholder councils.

Following the welcome, Board members joined a workshop with elected members where they heard more about the development of the Statement of Expectations, the key document outlining what councils expect of Central Districts Water, and received an update on the planned transfer of debt next year.

On Thursday, the Board travelled across the three districts to meet with staff working in, and supporting, water services.

Central Districts Water Board Chair, Hon Steve Maharey, said the visits were an important opportunity to build understanding early.

“It’s important to the Board that we understand the unique features of each of the three council areas,” Mr Maharey said.

“Central Districts Water will need to support large urban centres like Palmerston North, the coastal communities of Horowhenua, and the rural areas of Rangitīkei. Getting out early to meet staff and elected members has been a valuable opportunity to listen and learn, and to build a strong understanding before decisions are made.”

The Board will now meet monthly as the transition of services to Central Districts Water begins.

Transition Director Chris Dyhrberg said Central Districts Water has also taken a significant step forward with its registration as a company.

“This is a requirement under the Government’s Local Water Done Well legislation and formally establishes the organisation as a legal entity. It enables Central Districts Water to begin putting in place the people, systems and financial arrangements needed to operate, and marks the start of the transition toward taking on responsibility for water services over time.”

He said the transition team, which includes staff from Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, and Rangitīkei District Council, is working together to ensure local priorities are reflected in the new organisation.

“We have strong momentum, and the establishment team is working collaboratively to build an organisation that will deliver high-quality water services while reflecting the needs and character of each local community.”

With the Board now in place, its immediate focus is recruiting and appointing a Chief Executive. The recruitment process is now underway.

Pictured below: Members of the Central Districts Water board at the Pōwhiri.

About Central Districts Water

Central Districts Water is a council-controlled organisation being established by Horowhenua District Council, Palmerston North City Council, and Rangitīkei District Council to deliver drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services across the three districts.

The organisation will be responsible for managing, maintaining, and investing in water infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable, and sustainable services for communities now and into the future.

However some provisions are to be withdrawn as per Minister Christopher Bishop’s decision on Council’s Plan Stop exemption application to the Ministry for the Environment.

Proposed Plan Change 6A seeks to rezone 22ha of land on the northwest of Levin from Deferred Residential (Future Residential) to Residential. This land is one of Council’s identified urban growth areas – known as Levin North West 1 (LNW1). If approved, the rezoning will allow urban-scale subdivision to happen, enabling 400 to 500 dwellings on a range of section sizes.

Minister Christopher Bishop has advised that he considered Council’s application and was satisfied that Proposed Plan Change 6A met the criteria under the RMA for an exemption and could proceed in part. However, some provisions were identified as not appropriate to continue and must now be withdrawn.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says the decision gives clarity about what happens next.

“Proposed Plan Change 6A is an important part of planning for Horowhenua’s future growth, and this decision gives us a clear way forward,” says Mayor Bernie.

“It means the plan change can keep moving, while also making it clear which parts will continue and which parts have been withdrawn.”

“While we are disappointed that the removal of some provisions means work Council and Muaūpoko Tribal Authority put into shaping this plan change will not move forward as originally proposed, we remain focused on the parts that can still proceed and on planning well for our growing community.”

The provisions being withdrawn include three policies, six permitted activity conditions and one rule.

Mayor Bernie says it is important that the community understands both the decision and the next step in the process.

“We know submitters and residents want to understand what this means, and we will continue to keep people informed as the process moves ahead.”

The remainder of Proposed Plan Change 6A will now proceed to a public hearing. The hearing date will be advised in due course through a public notice and webpage update. Submitters who asked to speak at the hearing will also be advised directly.

For more information, visit letskorero.horowhenua.govt.nz/PPC6A

While to the south, Wellington Water continues to self-destruct, the model is far more hopeful for Central Districts Water which is a jointly owned water services council controlled organisation (WS-CCO)  that will begin operating from 1 July 2027.

While each council will retain ownership of its water assets, the Shareholders’ Committee provides a formal mechanism for shared oversight and local input as the new entity is established and transitions into operation. 

In December 2025, the three councils agreed that the Shareholders’ Committee would be made up of the Mayor of each Council, an elected member (and an alternative) from each council, and the committee will have three iwi representatives. 

The collective iwi across the three council regions have formed a Roopu (working group), called Nga Tapuwae o Hau, to represent them.  The three iwi nominations to the Committee were made through Nga Tapuwae o Hau for the three councils to approve.

Horowhenua District Council is represented by Mayor Bernie Wanden, Councillor Sam Jennings, with Councillor Mike Barker as the alternate.

Palmerston North City Council is represented by Mayor Grant Smith, Councillor Kaydee Zabelin, with Councillor Brent Barrett as alternate

Rangitikei District Council is represented by Mayor Andy Watson, Deputy Mayor Dave Wilson, with Councillor Fiona Dalgety as alternate. 

The iwi representatives will be Hayden Turoa of the Tainui Confederation with Tiwana Tibble as his alternate, Danielle Harris of the Kura hau po Confederation, with Di Rump as her alternate, and Marj Heeney representing the Greater Rangitikei region, with Suze Hepi as her alternate.

The Mayor of Horowhenua District Council, Bernie Wanden says the appointments reinforce to our communities the importance of local voice and partnership in shaping the future of water services.

“This committee brings together councils and iwi to ensure decisions are grounded in local knowledge, local priorities, and long-term care for our communities and environment. Strong local representation and shared oversight are critical as Central Districts Water is established.”

The committee’s first task will be to oversee the shortlisting of over 60 applicants who have put their names forward for the Central Districts Water board.

Palmerston North City Mayor Grant Smith says the strong interest in board roles reflects the importance of getting the foundations right.

“We’ve seen a high calibre field of applicants, with experience across governance, infrastructure, finance and community leadership. It’s a positive signal for our region, and it means we can take the time to appoint a board with the skills needed to set Central Districts Water up well from the start.”

Rangitikei Mayor Andy Watson says the Shareholders’ Committee will meet for the first time this week, with board appointments a key priority.

“Our focus now is on making sure the right governance is in place so the new organisation can be ready to deliver from day one. This is an important milestone, and we’ll continue to keep our communities informed as the next steps progress.”

Fish & Game made a submission on the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill which sets out the specific changes needed to ensure the new laws work as intended — protecting the habitats, waterways, and public access that anglers and hunters rely on.

“We support replacing the RMA and we want this reform to succeed,” Chief Executive Corina Jordan says.

“But the Bills as drafted make it much harder for trout, salmon, and other valued introduced species to be protected. They define ecosystem health solely around indigenous species, which means environmental limits can’t be set with trout and salmon habitat in mind.

“While Fish & Game has been advocating for a reduction in bureaucracy and costs when restoring wetlands, we are concerned that the ability to protect wetlands has been reduced in the bills. We want to see a definition of wetlands and clear mechanisms to protect them – we’ve already lost more than 90 percent of what we once had,” says Ms Jordan.

“Access is a priority for our licence holders, losing access to a river is losing something we all have a right to enjoy. Access needs to be protected and improved.

“Ultimately, these proposed reforms as they currently stand mean an uncertain future for anglers and hunters.”

Fish & Game’s detailed submission on the reforms is available here.

The submission sets out the specific changes needed to ensure the new laws work as intended – protecting the habitats, waterways, and public access that anglers and hunters rely on.

Fish & Game’s submission calls for amendments to ensure:

• The goals framework explicitly includes recreation, fishing, hunting, public access, and habitat for trout, salmon, and game birds
• The ecosystem health definition is expanded to include valued introduced species so environmental limits can protect trout and salmon habitat
• Wetlands are clearly defined and explicitly protected, while restoration pathways are enabled
• Esplanade reserve provisions are strengthened and the 20-metre minimum width retained
• Water Conservation Orders and Sports Fish and Game Management Plans are recognised in planning and consenting decisions

Recreational fishing and game bird hunting contribute to regional economies and are a cornerstone of recreation, wellbeing, and connection to place for hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders.

“This submission reflects three decades of clear mandate from our licence holders: habitat, water quality, and access are what matter most. We are asking Parliament to listen to them.”

About Fish & Game New Zealand

Fish & Game New Zealand is the statutory manager for sports fish and game birds, established under the Conservation Act 1987. It manages trout, salmon, and game birds and advocates for the freshwater habitats they depend on, on behalf of 175,000 licence holders. Fish & Game is entirely user-funded.

Every year, Council faces a balancing act, making sure the services our community relies on are delivered, while doing everything possible to keep rates and costs affordable for households and businesses.  

At its meeting this week, Horowhenua District Council endorsed the budget for its proposed Annual Plan for 2026/27. The Annual Plan will be formally adopted later this year. Rates for individual properties for 2026/27 will be set in June.

The 2026/27 Annual Plan is being shaped in a particularly challenging environment, with significant central government reforms and cost pressures affecting councils and communities  across the country.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says councillors know many people are feeling the pressure and have worked carefully through the budget with that in mind.

“We know times are tough for many households, and councillors don’t lose sight of that,” Mayor Bernie explains. “That’s why we’ve taken a careful look at every dollar, found savings where we can, and reduced the rates increase from an earlier forecast of around 11.6% to 5.8%, while still protecting the essential services our community relies on.”

“Councillors worked through a wide range of options, looking closely at where costs could be reduced or changes could be made,” Mayor Bernie says. “We were very mindful of avoiding decisions that would create unnecessary disruption for our community, while also managing the real cost and capacity pressures councils are facing as a result of wider reforms, and keeping affordability front of mind.”

The lower-than-forecast rates increase was achieved through detailed budget reviews and identifying efficiencies across Council operations, including delaying or rephasing some non-critical spending, without proposing cuts to core services. Council also negotiated well on behalf of our community and were able to significantly reduce some contracted costs.

This confirms a number of budget decisions, including investment in new technology such as automatic licence plate recognition to support parking services. It also includes not progressing a new community plan in 2027/28, reducing climate change funding, and exploring the removal of formal i-SITE accreditation at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō and Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom.  

It also endorses Council’s direction of travel in continuing to find ways to work differently and deliver affordable services to our community. For example, we’ll keep asking people to sign up for email rates invoices where possible to reduce printing and postage costs.  These small changes all add up.

Mayor Bernie says the Annual Plan approach reflects a clear and practical focus on what matters most to the community in the year ahead. 

“Our focus is on the basics, keeping core services running well, maintaining and renewing important infrastructure like roads and water, looking after the community facilities people use every day, and managing growth in a sensible and affordable way, even in a period of significant reform and rising costs. It’s about making careful choices now, while making sure we’re in a good position to take a fresh look at priorities through next year’s Long Term Plan.”

Because the Annual Plan does not propose any significant or material changes, formal public consultation is not required under legislation. Council will still keep the community informed and explain what the plan means as it moves through to adoption.  Council will also begin early conversations with the community later this year as part of developing the next Long Term Plan, which will provide further opportunities for people to have their say on Council’s future priorities and direction.

Alongside the Annual Plan, Council endorsed proposed fees and charges for 2026/27. Fees and charges help ensure costs are shared fairly between those who use specific services and the wider community, while supporting access to essential facilities and services. 

Council is required to consult on the changes to Resource Management fees. Consultation on them will open from 16 February to 16 March 2026. Council will continue to keep the community informed as the Annual Plan and Fees and Charges progress, including information about any consultation required.

Support is available to help ratepayers who may find rates increases difficult to manage, including through rates rebates and payment plan options.

If you need help or want to see what support is available, visit our Rating Information page or call Council on 06 366 0999.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says the priorities reflect those strategic enablers which will define this term of Council. “Our community have given us mandate, mandate to be bold in our leadership approach, and courageous in our decision making. The challenges facing local government are like never before, but the opportunities facing this District have never been so exciting.”

The Direction Setting framework focuses on three key priorities shaped by community voices and local aspirations.

Priority 1: Going for Growth

What this means: We see the opportunities that come with growth and want to ensure a return on investment that contributes to Horowhenua’s liveability and prosperity.

What good looks like:

• Integrated growth planning informs infrastructure investment and key moves
• Levin Town Centre transformation acts as a catalyst
• Using Growth to position the District as a place to be and invest in
• Ōtaki to North Levin Expressway anchors our leadership and advocacy as we secure a fair revocation deal
• Growth delivers essential services communities can rely on and afford

Priority 2: Future Fit Horowhenua District Council (HDC)

What this means: We will foster an agile, high-performing Council ready to meet future challenges of government reform while delivering fit-for-purpose services to our community.

What good looks like:

• Adapt to legislative and structural changes that redefine Council’s role, scope, and size across reforms (Local Water, Resource Management, Simpler Local Government, Rates Capping, System Improvement)
• Position HDC as a leader in reform opportunities for funding and collaboration
• Ensure governance and decision-making frameworks remain robust and future-proof to support community voice.

Priority 3: Financial Discipline

What this means: We will manage rates and funding wisely to keep services affordable and investments sustainable.

What good looks like:

• Strict budget monitoring and compliance with financial strategy, and balanced budget goals
• Review funding policies and settings to consider if rates and user fees and charges could be shared differently
• Advocacy for fair funding models and external investment opportunities
• Chase external funding opportunities

Mayor Bernie Wanden says these priorities give Council a shared focus as it begins the new triennium. “After the election, we took time to reflect on the issues and opportunities ahead for Horowhenua. These priorities set a clear path for how we will work together and what we will concentrate on. Our aim is to make decisions that reflect community voice and deliver outcomes that matter to the people who live here.”

This focus on growth, reform and financial discipline forms the foundation for Council’s work over the coming term.

Committee appointments

Council also confirmed its committee structure and appointments for the next 2025 to 2028 triennium. These committees support good governance, help spread leadership across the Council table, and ensure elected members can work closely with the community on the issues that matter most.

Councillors have been appointed for an initial 18 month period to allow for rotation and to make the best use of skills and experience across the Council table.

Chief Executive Performance and Employment Committee

Chair: Mayor Bernie Wanden

Members: Deputy Mayor David Allan, Cr Clint Grimstone, Cr Sam Jennings, Cr Jo Mason, Cr Paul Olsen.

Risk and Assurance Committee

Chair: Cr Sam Jennings

Members: Cr Mike Barker, Cr Nola Fox, Cr Morgan Gray, Cr Alan Young.

Community Funding and Recognition Committee

Chair: Cr Nina Hori Te Pa

Members: Mayor Bernie Wanden, Deputy Mayor David Allan, Cr Jo Mason.

Community Wellbeing Committee

Chair: Cr Jo Mason

Member: Cr Katrina Mitchell-Kouttab

Hearings and Regulatory Committee

Chair: Cr Clint Grimstone

Members: Deputy Mayor David Allan, Cr Mike Barker, Cr Sam Jennings, Cr Lani Te Raukura Ketu.

Procurement Review Group

Chaired by the Chief Executive

Members: Cr Sam Jennings, Cr Paul Olsen.

Te Awahou Foxton Community Board appointment

Appointed Councillor: Deputy Mayor David Allan.

His Worship the Mayor is a member of each committee, as per Section 41A (5) of the Local Government Act 2002.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says the committee structure supports the priorities that were adopted yesterday.

“We have a passionate and capable group of elected members who genuinely care about this district. Our committee structure allows us to bring those strengths together, focus on the right things and continue working with our community to deliver outcomes that matter.”

Committee teams will begin their work in early 2026, supported by a full schedule of meetings adopted at the Council meeting.

“Setting our direction is just the first step. The real work happens alongside our community, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we achieve together,” Mayor Bernie ends.

Guy, who served 15 years as MP for Ōtaki, including a ministerial role as Agriculture Minister says he’s excited about his new role.

In a recent interview with Rural News Guy said his first task is to listen to what exporters have to say and get a full appreciation of their needs.

He said while he has a good understanding of the major exporters such as those involved in meat, dairy and the big horticulture crops, he wants to connect with new and smaller exporters as well.

Guy says he’ll get briefings from MFAT and other agencies in the coming weeks and from there will work out a travel plan. He says being a former minister means he still has good international connections.

Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says Guy’s background promoting NZ’s producers, both as a Minister and as a farmer, means that he is uniquely well placed to tell the story of our primary production sector to the world.

The position reports directly to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, but Guy will obviously work closely with Minister McClay and other government agencies such as MPI.

McClay says the position supports key government objectives, including ensuring that our trading partners understand our approach to agriculture and primary production.

“The role also focuses on raising the performance of NZ’s agricultural and primary sector exports to the Government’s goal of doubling the value of exports in 10 years. Nathan Guy’s immediate priorities will be to advocate for New Zealand’s primary production interests from the perspective of a practising farmer,” he says.

McClay says he’s asked Guy to show particular focus on India and GCC markets, to leverage the opportunities that trade agreements with these countries would present.

Guy adds that an important part of his role is to connect back to farmers and growers and share insights from his overseas connections.