DairyNZ project wins national award
A project reducing strains and sprains on farm has won the Innovation category in the New Zealand Workplace Health and Safety Awards 2025.
The successful applicant gets the opportunity to gain further governance and leadership experience within the dairy sector.
Tracy Brown, DairyNZ chair, says this one-year position is an opportunity for farmers who have already invested time in public-good activity to contribute to one of their industry-good bodies and participate in discussion and debate.
“We are pleased to provide the opportunity to support emerging leaders and those currently contributing to their communities and across the sector, with the associate director role,” says Brown.
“The associate director will gain invaluable experience and support from our eight current DairyNZ board members, which can then be applied to future governance roles and opportunities.
“They will also bring their ideas, experiences and insights, and contribute directly to our boardroom discussions, which helps shape the direction of work being done by DairyNZ, on behalf of farmers.”
As an industry-good organisation, DairyNZ supports farmers to lead the world in sustainable dairying by investing in scientific research, new solutions and advocacy.
Since 2013 when associate director roles were introduced, 14 dairy farmers have contributed to board discussions, alongside the eight sitting directors.
“It provides a unique chance to be involved with DairyNZ, how we address key issues, and how we are looking ahead to progress a positive future for New Zealand dairy farming.”
Current associate director Jonathon Hoets says that the associate director role helped him to build on his governance experience within a sector he is passionate about.
“My point of view was respected in discussions and helped with decision making, while having a mentor was invaluable, helping me to further develop my skillset as a director.
“Building relationships inside the boardroom, and with DairyNZ and the wider sector, are also part of the programme. For farmers that are passionate about helping shape the dairy sector and build their governance skillset, this is a great opportunity.”
There is one position open to current levy-paying dairy farmers who are demonstrating leadership within their community and/or the dairy sector.
Associate directors are non-voting roles and are appointed for a one-year timeframe, comprising of board and sub-committee meetings. The role will commence on 1 June. A commitment of about 30 days per annum and the ability to travel are required.
