Apr 10, 2026
NZDFA Executive Committee Positions
Four nominations were received for the two vacancies created by the retirement by rotation of current members, Evan Potter and Karen Middelberg, and one vacancy created by mid-term retirement of Mark McCoard. The nominees are:
- Austin Garden, Otago (nominated by Glen Harrex, seconded by John Scurr)
- Richard Greer, Southland (nominated by Tony Roberts, seconded by Bruce Allan)
- Grant Hasse, Canterbury/West Coast (nominated by Tracey Maclean, seconded by Stuart Stokes)
- Evan Potter, Hawkes Bay (nominated by Grant Charteris, seconded by Miles Hellberg)
An election is now required. The three nominees with the highest number of votes will join sitting member Tom MacFarlane as the 2026/27 Executive Committee.
Voting
Voting will be conducted online, with those eligible sent a link via email (or post if there is no email on file). These will be sent out via ElectioNZ on Tuesday 21 April 2026, with the closing date of 12 noon Tuesday 5 May 2026.
Eligible voters are:
- Those that own deer and have paid a subscription to NZDFA (Full or Life member);
- Those who are an elected member of NZDFA; or
- Those who have paid venison or velvet levies to Deer Industry New Zealand.
Please check your spam folder if you believe you are eligible and haven't received an email. If you do not receive voting papers, it is because we don't have the above information on file for you, or the email address we have for you is outdated. Contact us if you wish to update your eligibility.
NZDFA Selection and Appointments Panel (SAP) Positions
Two nominations were received for the two vacancies created by the retirement by rotation of current members, Dave Lawrence and William Oliver. Those nominations are now declared elected unopposed:
- Dave Lawrence, Southland (nominated by John Somerville, seconded by Cam Nelson)
- William Oliver, Waipa (nominated by Ian Walker, seconded by John Acland)
The two nominees will join sitting members Andrew Peters and Donald Whyte, alongside the Executive Committee, as the 2026/27 Selection and Appointments Panel.
NZDFA-Appointed DINZ Board Director Positions
One nomination was received for the vacancy created by the retirement by rotation of current member, Patrick Boyd. The nominee is:
- Patrick Boyd, South Canterbury/North Otago (nominated by David Stevens, seconded by Kelly Bennett)
The nominee will be interviewed by the Selections and Appointment Panel on 9 or 10 June (date to be confirmed), and if selected will join the DINZ Board on 1 July 2025.
NZDFA Executive Committee Candidate Statements
Austin Garden
My name is Austin Garden, and I am seeking election to the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association Executive Committee. The NZDFA plays an essential role in advocating for and representing deer farmers and I would like to help support this. I would like to promote and a resilient, profitable, and sustainable industry and build on the fantastic work that has been done over the last few years. The NZDFA has a clear vision and goals which I support and would like to contribute towards advancing these for the benefit of the industry.
Richard Greer
My name is Richard Greer, along with my wife Kylie and two sons we farm Sunnyside Station in Western Southland. We operate a large-scale and diverse farming business, wintering around 3,000 deer, 7,000 sheep, and 550 cattle. We also run an on-farm fishing and hunting lodge, combining agriculture with tourism.
I am passionate about the deer industry, which plays a significant role in our farming operation. I was a founding member of the original Southland Advance Party and have recently completed a term on the board of the Alliance Group cooperative. Through this role, I gained valuable governance, strategic, and industry-level experience, which I am keen to give back to the sector.
The deer industry is a small but vital part of New Zealand agriculture. To remain strong, we must retain existing farmers while actively encouraging new entrants. Ongoing upskilling, from grassroots farming through to governance, is essential for the future success of our industry.
Grant Hasse
Grant Hasse, passionate deer farmer and Canterbury West Coast NZDFA member.
I am standing as candidate for the NZDFA Executive Committee, where all farmers can utilize my skills and know I will advocate for them with the future viability and direction of the industry.
I have built a results-based reputation working with DINZ and NZDFA on industry initiatives, while also challenging the status quo, providing solutions with alternative views to consider. I have also organised Next Generation 2023 and assist Lincoln University and Ag ITO in providing a greater understanding of deer farming.
Pre-agricultural employment includes financial, credit, and casino management, an agricultural career change provided me with an amazing opportunity to work with and learn from farmers, veterinarians, and other agricultural specialists.
Cheers, Grant
Evan Potter
It has been a privilege serving on the NZDFA Executive Committee for the past two years and upholding its core value of grassroots advocacy. The NZDFA champions, the farmers’ voice, ensuring those perspectives help shape industry decisions and initiatives that support the success of deer farming for all stakeholders.
Alongside my wife Linda, we run a mixed livestock operation in Central Hawkes Bay with a focus on velvet production. We are committed for the long term and continue to invest in an innovative, nimble and forward-thinking industry.
Remaining connected to the grassroots ensures awareness of current concerns and aspirations. While my collaborative nature and ability to think critically allow clear and direct communication of key messaging.
I remain committed to the NZDFA’s core values, and passionate about the industry creating opportunities for farmers to thrive. By strengthening communication and representation, we can ensure a resilient, forward-looking future for all.
Cheers, Evan
NZDFA Selection and Appointments Panel Candidate Statements
Dave Lawrence
I have served one term on SAP: That has made me aware of the importance of continuity and stability in the SAP, hence my seeking a second term.
My involvement in the industry extends over 40 years. The industry has always held appeal for innovative people who have created an industry that punches well above its weight.
A lifetime of involvement in the industry has been based on what is good for the industry - not “what is in it for me”.
My involvement across a broad spectrum of the industry positions me well to represent you on the SAP:
- Deer veterinary practice and deer farming;
- Auditor of the velvet removal programme since its inception;
- Development of the first deer specific parasite drench registered for deer;
- Facilitating an AP and being a farmer member of one;
- Life member and past President of the NZ Elk & Wapiti Society;
- Long standing member of the DEERSelect Reference Group;
- Industry appointment on the Research Advisory Panel.
William Oliver
I am William Oliver; I have served four years on the SAP and ask for your support for another term. I farm 2500 deer: velvet and venison.
I bring experience in appointment and review of directors and understand from serving on the DINZ board, the balance, and capabilities important to the success of our industry. Farmer voice vs specific skills.
The deer industry needs DINZ to be a high performing Industry Good Body. From experience I believe the SAP is a key component of this performance.
NZ agriculture and farmers are facing more challenges than ever before, Government policy, access to markets, credible food safety standards and sustainable production.
It is important for DINZ’s future success to have directors with capability and experience to Govern our industry giving purpose and vision for the DINZ team.
I bring both experience and capability which will add value to the SAP.
