Geoff Maber Awarded ONZM for Lifetime Contribution to New Zealand Agribusiness
Waikato agribusiness leader Geoff Maber has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours.
A practical placement with a local Waikato Vet Club - then Animal Health Centre, Morrinsville - under the tutorship of Scott McDougall led to a job offer.
"I was offered a job and have never looked back as I am still working within this organisation, now Anexa Vets," she told Dairy News.
This month, Roberts was one of several rural professionals honoured in the King's Birthday Honours List.
Roberts became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for her services to the dairy industry and community.
She says she feels extremely humbled and overwhelmed.
Contributing to Major Dairy Industry Programmes
During her career as a vet at Anexa, Roberts has been involved with many dairy industry projects.
These include working through DairyNZ programmes like Feedright, Healthy Hoof and the redevelopment of the national herd fertility resource the InCalf programme.
She has worked in both the research (Cognsoco) and veterinary divisions of Anexa.
For the past 15 years, she has also been a farm advisor through both Anexa and Headlands (Intelact Group).
In 2024, Roberts was named the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year for her service to the farming sector.
Passion for Supporting Farmers
Roberts says she grew up on sheep and pig farms in Australia and has always loved working alongside farmers.
"I am passionate about the contribution that vets can have, not just at the cow and herd level but also with the farm team."
Optimistic About Agriculture’s Future
Roberts believes it's a great time to bein involved in agriculture in New Zealand.
"Working alongside farmers, I get to see firsthand every day how much they care for the land, their cows and the people that work with them.
"However, that doesn't mean that there isn't always room for improvement, as we are always learning and growing," she adds.
