Governance changes position sector for future opportunities
Animal and Plant Health New Zealand (APHANZ) has confirmed several governance changes, including the appointment of Nicola Smith as President.
Smith brings more than 25 years of experience across New Zealand’s agricultural sector, spanning crop protection, animal health, commercial management, manufacturing, portfolio strategy, and senior leadership.
Her career provides an end-to-end understanding of the industry, from science and regulatory systems through to commercial execution and market dynamics.
A former APHANZ Board member from 2021 to 2024, she contributed to foundational work that shaped the organisation’s current strategic direction and brings a deep understanding of the membership and the regulatory environment influencing the sector’s future.
She is a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors and is Country Manager for Syngenta New Zealand.
Smith says she is honoured to take on the role at a pivotal time for the sector.
“APHANZ has made significant progress in recent years, and it’s essential that we convert that into lasting change.
“This includes a regulatory system that supports innovation and enables investment, and an industry positioned for long-term growth and sustainability.
“I’m humbled to be appointed to this role, and I’m looking forward to working with my fellow Board members and the APHANZ team on an upcoming refresh of the APHANZ strategy.
“This will be shaped by our collective members’ insights, experiences, and expectations, so our shared direction reflects the realities and the opportunities ahead.”
National Technical Manager at PGG Wrightson, Milton Munro, has been reappointed to the Board to represent distributors.
He brings scientific credibility and practical commercial insight to governance.
He has worked extensively with industry, researchers, regulators, and commercial partners to bridge the gap between research, product development, and practical adoption, while advocating for regulatory settings that support productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability.
Nigel Johnston from Pasture First Research has been appointed as Associate Director.
He brings more than 25 years of experience in crop protection, with first-hand knowledge of the critical role of new technologies for New Zealand agricultural and horticultural industries, and the importance of getting these products to market in a timely manner.