Danielle Adsett Appointed Chief Executive of New Zealand Apples and Pears

Adsett, previously the organisation's market access manager, has been acting general manager since December 2025.

She says she is honoured with the appointment and has hit the ground running.

“I am committed to this sector. Our growers are passionate, innovative and resilient and they produce the world’s best apples," Adsett says.

"I am proud and excited to have the opportunity to support the industry, to advocate on their behalf as we seek to double exports and to work alongside a phenomenal team at NZAPI, who are all equally as committed to our members’ success.” 

NZAPI chair Andrew Gibbs says the board was unanimous in its decision following a rigorous recruitment process.

"Danielle's clear vision for the industry, leadership capability, and deep, long-term dedication to the sector were evident throughout the process and made her the standout candidate," Gibbs says.

"We look forward to working with Danielle and the team to deliver further benefits for our members and New Zealand as a whole.”

The announcement comes at a key point in time for the industry, which achieved more than a billion dollars in exports for the first time in 2025, following several challenging seasons marred by weather events and Covid-19.

NZAPI has now begun recruitment for a market access manager.