New Zealand kiwifruit growers advocacy body NZKGI has confirmed the appointment of Whetu Rolleston as NZKGI’s new Chairperson.
Whetu brings a wealth of experience to the position, having made significant contributions to the kiwifruit industry over many years, most recently as Vice Chair of NZKGI. A notable example is her leadership in the successful effort to retain a bud break enhancer for the industry – an outcome made possible through her collaboration with key partners and unwavering commitment to growers.
NZKGI CEO Colin Bond says, “I am confident that under Whetu’s leadership, NZKGI will continue to strongly represent grower interests and build upon the solid foundation laid by outgoing Chair, Mark Mayston. Her skillset aligns with NZKGI’s strategic direction and the evolving needs of the industry. It also ensures continuity in our core mission: to advocate, protect and enhance the commercial and political interests of New Zealand kiwifruit growers. I warmly congratulate her and wish her every success as Chairperson.”
With the industry experiencing rapid growth, and global demand for New Zealand kiwifruit continuing to rise, growers face an increasingly complex environment. NZKGI has a vital role to play in guiding and supporting growers through this time, engaging with government, industry, and other partners to ensure grower interests remain at the heart of future developments.
Whetu says, “It’s a real honour to step into the role of Chairperson for NZKGI. Looking ahead, I’m feeling genuinely excited about the opportunities on the horizon. As Chairperson, my aim is to build on the great work already underway and maintain strong advocacy as the industry continues to grow and evolve. It’s all about ensuring the value of this industry flows back to the people at its heart – our growers.”
Whetu and her whānau run a small Gold orchard in Te Puna. She also serves as a trustee on several Ahuwhenua trusts and is involved in a number of kiwifruit ventures across Tauranga Moana, covering around 50 hectares of Green and Gold orchards. Whetu is also the independent Chair of a 70-hectare Green kiwifruit partnership development.
“Over recent years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from outstanding leaders during my time as Vice Chair and Executive Member – particularly under Doug Brown and Mark Mayston. Thanks to their leadership, I feel confident this transition will bring steady hands and continued momentum. One of NZKGI’s greatest strengths is the diversity within our Executive and Forum – it’s through that diversity we achieve the strong, principled decisions our growers deserve”, says Whetu.
