Bridging the gap with rural New Zealand
OPINION: One thing I keep hearing from rural New Zealanders is the importance of relationships. Strong relationships don’t just happen - they take trust, consistency, and time.
From September 11, levy-paying dairy farmers will have the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidates.
The two successful candidates will bring their unique experience and expertise and will have a crucial role on the DairyNZ board, supporting farmers through current and future challenges.
Electionz.com returning officer Anthony Morton says that farmers have until 12 pm Tuesday 10 October to cast their votes.
“I am encouraged by the number of candidates who have been nominated to fill these vacancies, and now is the opportunity for dairy farmers to have a say in who they want elected to the DairyNZ board,” says Morton.
“When dairy farmers receive their voter packs, I encourage them to read the profiles and consider who they believe will represent their views and make the best contribution to the board.”
DairyNZ levy payers will receive a vote pack in the mail from September 11, and can vote online or by post.
The 2023 DairyNZ Board of Directors candidates are:
- Bryan Pedersen, Foxton
- Shane Ardern, Opunake
- Gray Baldwin, Putararu
- Paul Manion, Morrinsville
- Jim van der Poel, Ohaupo
- Seamus Barden, Auckland
- Jeremy Savage, Ashburton
- Cameron Henderson, Swannanoa
- Jessie Chan, Rakaia
- Stu Muir, Aka Aka
- James Barron, Te Poi
- Conall Buchanan, Paeroa
- Jason Herrick, Lumsden
DairyNZ’s board consists of five farmer-elected directors and three board-appointed directors.
This year, Colin Glass and Jim van der Poel are retiring by rotation. Glass will not stand for re-election.
One nomination was received for a Directors’ Remuneration Committee position, which reviews and recommends changes to directors’ payments and other benefits to directors each year. As only one vacancy exists, Robbie Byars of Winton will be appointed as a committee member at DairyNZ’s annual general meeting.
Successful candidates will be announced at DairyNZ's annual general meeting on 11 October in Te Awamutu.
