HortNZ is welcoming three new directors to its Board following this year's election. Simon Cook, Dermott Malley, and Shaun Vickers will take up their positions after the HortNZ Annual General Meeting on 26 August 2025.
Simon Cook grows kiwifruit and avocados in Te Puke, Bay of Plenty. He is currently Chair of Kiwifruit Vine Health (KVH), the kiwifruit industry's biosecurity body.
Dermott Malley brings extensive experience in both the commercial and horticultural sectors. He is Chair of Onyx Capital Ltd, a Northland-based integrated horticultural enterprise known for pioneering advanced growing techniques in kiwifruit, kiwiberries, and hydroponic berryfruit production. He is also Deputy Chair of KVH.
Shaun Vickers, a past winner of the national Young Grower of the Year competition, is currently General Manager of Clients, Orchards, and Business Development at Apata Group. He oversees several business units, including Apata GROW, which manages over 530 hectares of kiwifruit orchards and is developing more than 250 hectares across three regions. Vickers also holds a shareholding in a 14-hectare orchard near Edgecumbe.
HortNZ Chair Bernadine Guilleux says the new directors bring a valuable mix of governance experience, operational expertise, and sector insight.
"Growers have had the opportunity to select leaders who will make key decisions on behalf of their industry good body, and I'm confident that they will work in the interests of all growers.
"Succession at the governance level helps ensure HortNZ remains future-focused and effective in its advocacy. We're looking forward to the contribution each new director will bring to the Board table."
Guilleux also acknowledged the significant contributions of Barry O'Neil, Hugh Ritchie, and Kathryn de Bruin, who are stepping down from the board this year.
"Barry and Hugh have each completed their maximum terms, and we thank them for their service, particularly through a period of enormous change and challenge for the horticulture sector. Their leadership, insight, and commitment to growers have been invaluable.
"Kathryn brought a thoughtful and practical voice to the table. We are grateful for the time, energy, and expertise she contributed, particularly her accountancy experience."
© Horticulture New ZealandFor more information:
Horticulture New Zealand
Tel: +64 (0) 4 472 3795
Email: [email protected]
www.hortnz.co.nz
