Our People

Powered by Our People

Our teams are dedicated to supporting growers and building long-term relationships founded on trust. With deep knowledge of the land, the seasons, and the challenges growers face, we bring genuine care and practical know-how that makes a real difference on every orchard.

Our Board

James Trevelyan
Managing Director

In 1991, James returned home to help his parents run the family business, and later, in 2009, he assumed the role of Managing Director. His broad responsibilities include overseeing managers in production departments crucial to the company’s success: the Head of Strategic Projects, the Continuous Improvement Manager, the Head of Operations and Logistics, the Head of Quality and Compliance, and the Chief Financial Officer.

James holds a Mechanical Engineering Degree from Auckland University and also has extensive horticultural knowledge and management experience. Alongside owning orchards, he deeply understands post-harvest operations and the onshore/offshore supply chain. In addition to his responsibilities at Trevelyan’s, James is an active member of the industry and community, contributing his expertise to The Trevelyan Pack and Cool Limited Board, G4 Kiwifruit Supply, various kiwifruit-related entities and two Te Puke community cycling boards.

Further to his role and extensive experience working in the kiwifruit and avocado industries, James strongly believes in staff development, achieving excellence, and getting the job done right. He is passionate about the LEAN manufacturing methodology, which focuses on minimising waste while simultaneously maximising productivity in a measured manner.

Outside of work, you’ll find James out running — his first passion. James also enjoys spending time with his family in the beautiful New Zealand outdoors, often climbing, biking, and exploring new places whenever he can.

Fiona Trevelyan
Director

Dr Fiona Trevelyan is a physiotherapist with a Master’s degree and PhD in human factors and ergonomics. She is a Certified Professional Member of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of New Zealand (HFESNZ) and is listed on the HASANZ (The Health and Safety Association of New Zealand) register.

Fiona holds several national and international leadership roles, including Secretary of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of New Zealand, Lead of its Special Interest Group for Healthcare, and is a member of the IEA Technical Committee for Healthcare. In her national leadership role with Health NZ, she focuses on reducing the burden of musculoskeletal disorders and advancing the application of human factors principles across the health sector.

She brings specialist expertise in health and safety, workforce wellbeing, and human-centred systems design. With extensive experience advising boards and senior leadership teams, Fiona contributes valuable insights into people, systems, and organisational performance to TPCL’s (Trevelyan Pack & Cool Limited) governance.

Kate Anderson
Director

Kate holds a Bachelor of Food Technology (First-Class Honours) from Massey University and was awarded a Massey Scholarship. Kate has more recently obtained a Nutrition and Health Coaching Certificate through the globally recognised Institute of Integrative Nutrition.  Kate is now a member of an international team of support coaches providing solutions to those with chronic illness in the online Intuitive Healing Community.
 
As a food technologist, Kate plays a useful role in supporting the Board. Her insights into product development, food safety and quality, and regulatory compliance, coupled with her advice on production innovation, are in guiding sound decision-making around new products and operational improvements.

Andrew Trevelyan
Director

Andrew Trevelyan holds a Master’s degree in Urban Design and brings a unique blend of horticultural insight and professional expertise to the TPCL (Trevelyan Pack & Cool Limited) Board. Raised on a kiwifruit orchard with packhouse and coolstore operations, he developed a practical understanding of seasonal production, post-harvest logistics, and the importance of quality in produce handling.

His career has spanned education, town planning, and urban design, complementing his deep roots in horticulture with skills in strategic development and community-focused growth. Andrew has served on the TPCL Board for several years, where he has played a key role in stewarding the company’s legacy and supporting its growth as a sustainable, resilient business.

Committed to maintaining the long-term values of the Trevelyan family in a dynamic commercial environment, Andrew contributes valuable industry knowledge, governance experience, and a future-focused perspective to the Board.

Carlos da Silva
Independent Director

Carlos da Silva is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors and a Fellow Chartered Accountant, with a business degree from Massey University. A former senior partner at Deloitte Hamilton, he brings more than three decades of experience in governance, financial strategy, and guiding businesses through growth and change.

Carlos currently serves as Independent Chairman of Bluehaven Group Ltd (a residential and commercial property developer and investor) and Trelise Cooper Group Ltd (a global fashion design house). He is also Independent Chairman of Cooney Lees Morgan (Bay of Plenty law firm), Independent Director of Trevelyan’s Pack and Cool Ltd (kiwifruit and avocado orchard management and packhouse), LondonGreen Ltd (IT solutions and internet service provider), and Feisst Group Ltd (HVAC and electrical contracting).

Known for his strong governance and commercial insight, Carlos combines deep financial expertise with a broad industry perspective, helping Trevelyan’s strengthen its strategic planning, operational resilience, and focus on long-term profitability.

Our Leadership

James Trevelyan
Managing Director
James ‘can’t keep still’ Trevelyan

In 1991, James returned home to help his parents run the family business, and later, in 2009, he assumed the role of Managing Director. His broad responsibilities include overseeing managers in production departments crucial to the company’s success: the Head of Strategic Projects, the Continuous Improvement Manager, the Head of Operations and Logistics, the Head of Quality and Compliance, and the Chief Financial Officer.

James holds a Mechanical Engineering Degree from Auckland University and also has extensive horticultural knowledge and management experience. Alongside owning orchards, he deeply understands post-harvest operations and the onshore/offshore supply chain. In addition to his responsibilities at Trevelyan’s, James is an active member of the industry and community, contributing his expertise to The Trevelyan Pack and Cool Limited Board, G4 Kiwifruit Supply, various kiwifruit-related entities and two Te Puke community cycling boards.

Further to his role and extensive experience working in the kiwifruit and avocado industries, James strongly believes in staff development, achieving excellence, and getting the job done right. He is passionate about the LEAN manufacturing methodology, which focuses on minimising waste while simultaneously maximising productivity in a measured manner.

Outside of work, you’ll find James out running — his first passion. James also enjoys spending time with his family in the beautiful New Zealand outdoors, often climbing, biking, and exploring new places whenever he can.

Stephen Butler
General Manager
Steve 'Up The Wahs' Butler

As Trevelyan’s General Manager, Stephen plays a central role in guiding the business’s day-to-day operations and ensuring the organisation delivers on its long-term strategic direction. He first joined Trevelyan’s in 2004 as Financial Controller and stepped into the General Manager role in 2009. Today, he works closely with the Heads of People & Culture, Kiwifruit Grower Services, Avocados and Technical – a leadership group critical toTrevelyan’s ongoing success. 

With a Bachelor of Business Studies and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Studies, Stephen brings a strong foundation in financial,commercial, and organisational leadership. Before joining Trevelyan’s, he held several senior roles across the corporate sector, experience that continues to shape his pragmatic, relationship-driven approach to management. 

Stephen also contributes his expertise across a wide range of Boards and advisory groups, including TKL Logistics Ltd (Chair), BayFarmsLtd (Chair), Trevelyan Growers Limited, Trevelyan Avocado Growers Ltd, Trevelyan’s Managed Orchards Ltd, New Zealand Golden Kiwifruit Company Ltd, The Nutritious Kiwifruit Company Ltd and No.1 Road Pollen Ltd. 

At the heart of Stephen’s work is his belief in strong, enduring relationships. He is committed to building trust, loyalty, and shared purpose – values he sees as fundamental to the success of Trevelyan’s, its growers, and its people. 

Outside of work, Stephen enjoys heading out for a spot of fishing, getting stuck into home renovation projects, spending quality time with his family and grandkids, and supporting the Warriors at most home games.

Ian Coventry
Chief Financial Officer
Ian ‘LOVING My Lycra’ Coventry

Ian joined Trevelyan’s in 2021 as Chief Financial Officer, bringing with him more than 20 years of senior finance and leadership experience across the education, research and development, agriculture, forestry, and kiwifruit sectors. His role is central to shaping Trevelyan’s financial direction and ensuring the business remains well-positioned for long-term success.

A graduate of the University of Waikato, Ian holds a Bachelor of Management Studies with a focus on accounting and finance, and is a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. He also serves as a Director of Trevelyan’s Growers Ltd, reflecting his commitment to supporting both the company and its grower community.

At Trevelyan’s, Ian leads the Finance, Payroll, IT & Development, and Marketing & Communications teams, ensuring they are well-supported to deliver the systems and insights needed to inform decisions across the business. He also oversees insurance, risk management, and internal control systems, ensuring Trevelyan’s operates with strength, clarity, and confidence.

With a steady, strategic approach, Ian is focused on building financial resilience and delivering the insight needed for Trevelyan’s to grow, innovate, and continue supporting its people and growers.

Outside of work, you’ll find Ian with Justine, Abbey and Alex, chasing new adventures — usually on bikes or in running shoes, often heading up the biggest hill around, to take in the view before racing back down!

Daniel Birnie
Head of Avocado
Daniel ‘Marathon Man’ Birnie

As Head of Avocados at Trevelyan’s, Daniel oversees all aspects of the avocado business, from orchard to market, and works closely with growers to help them succeed. Daniel's territory stretches from Ōpōtiki to the Coromandel, including Mōtītī Island, Hawke's Bay, Waikato, and across the Bay of Plenty. 

Originally from the Bay of Plenty but raised in Hawke's Bay, Daniel's commitment to the avocado industry is unwavering. This dedication was further solidified when he established his avocado orchard in Ōtamarākau, providing him with invaluable first-hand experience of the opportunities and challenges faced by growers.

Daniel holds a Bachelor of Social Science and a Diploma in Management Studies from the University of Waikato and has successfully completed the Kellogg Rural Leadership Course. His governance experience includes serving as a director for both BayFarms and NZ Avocado, further solidifying his expertise and credibility in the industry.

Outside of work, Daniel can be often found out on the water, paddling the long line off Pāpāmoa Beach in search of the perfect catch — a great way to relax and recharge.

Gordon Skipage
Head of Technical
Gordon ‘Grasshoppers Have Outgrown Master” Skipage

Gordon joined Trevelyan’s in 2018 as Kiwifruit Technical Manager and was soon promoted to Head of Technical. In his role, he ensures the delivery of expert technical advice to both kiwifruit and avocado growers, as well as the wider Trevelyan’s team, with an ultimate focus on boosting productivity and profitability for growers and Trevelyan’s.

Gordon holds a Business Degree from Victoria University, but his deep understanding of kiwifruit has been shaped by working alongside some of the industry’s leading growers and peers. He is actively involved in multiple industry working groups, contributing to initiatives on pest and disease management and fruit taste standards.

Beyond his technical expertise, Gordon leads a range of projects that develop grower strategies and act as a bridge between Trevelyan’s Technical team, external research organisations, industry bodies, and suppliers. His collaborative approach ensures that both growers and the business benefit from the latest knowledge, innovation, and best practices.

Outside of work Gordon enjoys spending his time travelling with his family and proving to his boys that he’s still young enough to keep up. While mostly proven wrong, Gordon has proven he’s still a better swimmer, snowboarder and couch potato than his sons.

John Lewitt
Head of Operations & Logistics
John 'Just Popping Up Everest' Lewitt

John joined Trevelyan’s in 2011 and is now Head of Operations and Logistics, overseeing a broad portfolio of departments critical to the company’s success. His responsibilities span kiwifruit and avocado packhouse operations, pollen harvest and milling, fruit inventory and shipping, engineering and maintenance, site facilities, coolstores, and forklift operations.

John holds a Bachelor of Business Studies from Massey University, providing a strong foundation in business management and operational leadership. He also contributes his expertise to the wider industry as an active member of the Industry Packaging Group.

With extensive experience and a proven track record, John brings a practical and seasoned perspective to the business. He leads by example, driving operational excellence across Trevelyan’s and ensuring the business consistently delivers our high-quality service for our growers.

Outside of work, you will find John spending time with family and friends and staying active through a range of activities, including running, squash, fishing, hiking, summer surfing, and winter skiing; while he wouldn’t describe himself as an expert in any one activity, he enjoys getting out there and giving it a go! John continues his passion for adventure by using his annual leave to explore the world, often seeking out off-the-beaten-track destinations.

Mandeep Pannu
Head of Quality & Compliance
Mandeep ‘Peak Weekend Plans’ Pannu

Mandeep joined Trevelyan’s in 2022 as Head of Quality and Compliance, a role central to maintaining the company’s high standards across harvest, packing, and coolstore operations. She ensures Trevelyan’s consistently meets and exceeds all food safety and regulatory requirements, safeguarding the quality and reputation of the fruit produced.

Mandeep holds a Master of Science in Agriculture and brings over a decade of experience in the kiwifruit industry. Her expertise spans quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and operational best practice, providing both guidance and leadership to the Quality and GAP & Auditing teams she oversees.

Beyond her core responsibilities, Mandeep plays a key role in educating all Trevelyan’s employees on the importance of quality control, ensuring that every team member understands their part in delivering the highest standards.

Outside of work, Mandeep enjoys spending time with family and friends, getting out for walks, and heading up Papamoa Hills. When time allows, she also enjoys cooking for the family and relaxing with a good TV show.

Michelle Sheehan
Head of People & Culture
Michelle 'People Power' Sheehan

As Head of People & Culture, Michelle leads Trevelyan’s People and Safety teams, covering Health & Safety, People & Culture, Insights, Employment, RSE, Learning & Development, and Security.

The purpose that drives the People, Culture, and Safety Team is to support, enable, and empower people to create a safe, positive employee experience, that drives performance and helps Trevelyan’s thrive, now and into the future.

Michelle partners with leaders across the business to ensure people practices are clear, consistent, and are aligned with Trevelyan’s values and strategic goals. She holds a Bachelor of Law and a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria University of Wellington and brings experience across a range of industries.

Of Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Tāmaterā, Ngāti Maniapoto and Pākehā descent, Michelle brings a strong understanding of people and perspectives,helping shape a workplace where people can do their best work.

Outside of work, Michelle enjoys time with her husband, two children, family and friends, and getting a swim in wherever she can (including the often icy Tongariro).

Mike Perrett
Head of Kiwifruit Grower Services
Mike ‘Out Pasture Bedtime’ Perrett

As the Head of the Kiwifruit Grower Services team, Mike joined the team in 2020, and oversees the Kiwifruit Growers Services Team, alongside supporting growers across Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne.

He began his career in the kiwifruit industry in 1981,specialising in orchard contracting, development, and management before becoming Packhouse and Coolstore Manager and Company Director at Waimapu Packhouse in 1984. He then joined ENZA – NZAPMB, where he managed coolstores in Hawkes Bay, and the North Island until 2000. Following that, Mike took on the role of Operations Manager for Birdhurst Farms Ltd, a diverse operation focused on growing, packing, and storing apples and kiwifruit. In 2008, he accepted the position of General Manager at Golden Bay Fruit, where he led a vertically integrated business that produces over one million trays of kiwifruit and more than one million cartons of apples annually. His responsibilities included overseeing three packhouses and five coolstore sites, managing an RSE program with 430 staff, and controlling 60% of apple exports. Additionally, he served as a director for Mainland Kiwifruit Supply Group, advocating for South Island growers. 

Outside of work, Mike manages a 200-hectare deer and drystock farm with his wife Alison. He considers his proudest achievements to be their three children, their partners, and their seven grandchildren.

Sarah Lei
Head of Strategic Projects
Sarah ‘In Pursuit of Namaste and Balance’ Lei

Sarah joined Trevelyan’s in February 2020 and is now Head of Strategic Projects, leading the company’s key initiatives across sustainability and infrastructure. She drives Trevelyan’s commitment to economic, environmental, and social responsibility while overseeing major infrastructure projects that support the business’s long-term growth and operational excellence.

Sarah holds an Honours Degree in Chemical and Process Engineering and began her career in the UK, working as an engineer in the water and petrochemical industries. More recently, she completed the HortNZ Leadership Training Programme in 2022, further enhancing her ability to deliver strategic, high-impact projects within the horticulture sector.

In addition to her core responsibilities, Sarah leads the Trevelyan’s internal Sustainability Committee, regularly assessing key challenges and identifying opportunities for improvement. Her holistic and innovative approach ensures that sustainability and infrastructure initiatives are closely aligned, embedding forward-thinking solutions into the company’s operations and shaping a resilient, future-ready business.

Outside of work, you’ll find Sarah balancing life as a sustainability professional, chemical engineer, kiwifruit grower, yoga teacher and mum — often out mountain biking, trail running, adventure racing, rock climbing or surfing, all while doing her best to make the world a better place.

Our Kiwifruit Team

Mike Perrett
Head of Kiwifruit Grower Services
Mike ‘Out Pasture Bedtime’ Perrett

As the Head of the Kiwifruit Grower Services team, Mike joined the team in 2020, and oversees the Kiwifruit Growers Services Team, alongside supporting growers across Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne.

He began his career in the kiwifruit industry in 1981,specialising in orchard contracting, development, and management before becoming Packhouse and Coolstore Manager and Company Director at Waimapu Packhouse in 1984. He then joined ENZA – NZAPMB, where he managed coolstores in Hawkes Bay, and the North Island until 2000. Following that, Mike took on the role of Operations Manager for Birdhurst Farms Ltd, a diverse operation focused on growing, packing, and storing apples and kiwifruit. In 2008, he accepted the position of General Manager at Golden Bay Fruit, where he led a vertically integrated business that produces over one million trays of kiwifruit and more than one million cartons of apples annually. His responsibilities included overseeing three packhouses and five coolstore sites, managing an RSE program with 430 staff, and controlling 60% of apple exports. Additionally, he served as a director for Mainland Kiwifruit Supply Group, advocating for South Island growers. 

Outside of work, Mike manages a 200-hectare deer and drystock farm with his wife Alison. He considers his proudest achievements to be their three children, their partners, and their seven grandchildren.

Pranoy Pal
Kiwifruit Technical Manager
Pranoy 'Drinky-Doodle-Doo' Pal

Pranoy is the Kiwifruit Technical Manager at Trevelyan’s and provides science-based advice and support to growers across the Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne, Ōpōtiki, Whakatāne, Waikato and South Auckland regions. His role focuses on helping growers optimise orchard performance while meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining long-term environmental sustainability while remaining profitable. Drawing on his expertise in plant physiology, crop protection and soil science, Pranoy works closely with growers to translate research into practical, on-orchard solutions that improve productivity, quality, soil health and resilience. 

With more than 14 years’ experience in research and project management, Pranoy’ s career to date is impressive. He has led large, grant-funded scientific programmes involving complex decision-making, he has collaborated with government agencies and Crown Research Institutes and engaged with high-profile clients and funding bodies. His work has spanned both orchard and post-harvest systems, with particular strengths in soil nutrient cycling, greenhouse gas emissions, and insect pest management. In recognition of his contributions to regenerative agriculture practices, Pranoy (alongside Gordon Skipage) recently received the Sustainable Innovation Award 2025 on behalf of Trevelyan's from Horticulture New Zealand (the national governing body of horticulture). 

Pranoy holds a PhD in Soil Science from Lincoln University and a Master’s degree in Horticultural Science from Massey University, alongside earlier Bachelor and Master degrees in Agricultural Chemistry, and Soil Science from Anand Agricultural University in India. He has also published widely throughout his academic career. 

Outside of work, Pranoy enjoys excellent food, appreciating a well-crafted single malt whisky, and spending quality time relaxing with family and friends around the table.

Dan McKenney
Orchard Operations Manager
Dan 'Dinner's Is Sorted' McKenney

Dan is the Orchard Operations Manager for Trevelyan’s Managed Orchards (TMO), a role he has held for the past four years.  

Dan is responsible for overseeing kiwifruit orchard performance, leading on-orchard teams, and ensuring growers receive exceptional results across all aspects of orchard development and fruit production. With a strong focus on quality and efficiency, Dan works closely with growers and orchard teams to deliver high-performing orchards that meet both production and operational goals. 

Dan currently oversees a wide geographical area, managing teams from north of Katikati through to Ōpōtiki. His leadership ensures consistency, strong communication, and the successful delivery of orchard programmes across this diverse region. 

With over 10 years of experience in the kiwifruit industry, Dan has developed a well-rounded skill set across both technical advisory and orchard development and management roles. He has a particular passion for orchard development and takes pride in seeing projects through from establishment to strong, productive outcomes. Dan holds a Diploma in Horticulture through Fruition Horticulture, supporting his practical experience with solid industry knowledge. 

Outside of work, Dan enjoys making the most of the outdoors, spending his time surfing, spearfishing, and hunting whenever he gets the chance.

Amanda Murdoch
Kiwifruit Grower Liaison
Amanda ‘ Wind: 1, Me: 0.’ Murdoch

With a strong background in customer relationship management, Amanda supports the Grower Services team with a focus on the Tauranga and Katikati regions. Her role centres on building meaningful connections, ensuring growers feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the growing season.

Before stepping into the kiwifruit industry, Amanda spent 15 years in telecommunications across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, specialising in training, customer liaison and small business support. Joining Trevelyan’s in 2022 — right at the height of harvest — was a fast-paced introduction to the world of kiwifruit! Amanda  enjoys meeting the dedicated growers and contractors who bring so much passion to this vibrant industry.

Outside of work, you’ll often find Amanda at the beach with her dogs, or spending quality time with family and friends. A personal highlight she’s particularly proud of? Successfully renovating two houses… and still happily married after both projects!

Amy Willoughby
Business Development Manager
Amy ‘Wheely Dealy ’ Willoughby

As part of the Kiwifruit Grower Services Team, Amy is dedicated to helping rural kiwifruit businesses achieve exceptional results. With a background in rural banking and over a decade in the kiwifruit industry, she combines professional expertise with personal insight in her work. 

Originally from the Horowhenua District, Amy works with clients across Te Puke and the lower North Island, though her role often takes her beyond those regions. With hands-on experience as part of a Green and Gold orchard partnership, Amy has a genuine understanding of the challenges and opportunities growers face. 

In addition to her role as a Business Development Manager within the Kiwifruit Grower Services Team, Amy is the Supply Representative Director on the KVH (Kiwifruit Vine Health) Board and a Young Director at Priority One. Academically, she holds a BSc in Chemistry and Statistics, a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry, and a Graduate Diploma in Rural Studies focusing on Rural Banking and Farm Management. 

Outside of her professional life, Amy enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, and supporting her local community. Whether relaxing at the orchard, traveling, or participating in local events, she cherishes the people and places that make rural regions special.

Brent McDowell
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative
Brent 'Adrenalin Antics' McDowell

As a Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative, Brent works with a diverse portfolio of Red, Gold, and Green kiwifruit growers – from those just starting in the industry to seasoned legends of the business. While Brent's core territory is Te Puke, Paengaroa, and Pongakawa, he also supports growers as far as Katikati and Te Teko. Brent thoroughly enjoys engaging with growers each week, and his role is to assist and guide growers through every stage of the kiwifruit growing season. 

Brent grew up in Te Puke on his family's kiwifruit and citrus orchard, which was first developed in 1969. As children, they all chipped in – sometimes reluctantly on those cold, rainy mornings – helping with the many jobs that needed doing!

After completing an automotive apprenticeship, Brent spent over 20 years in the automotive industry, including 13 years in dealer management in North Queensland. Returning home in 2021 with his wife and two children, he has now come full circle and is a shareholder in the family orchard, overseeing the day-to-day operations.

Outside of work, Brent is happiest outdoors – on the boat, camping, surfing, snowboarding, or on his motorbike. A proud highlight was converting their original Hayward trial block-planted by his father-to Gold, and, as Brent would see it, blending history with new beginnings.

Brian Hodge
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative
Brian ‘Gonna Need a Bigger Boat’ Hodge

With 20 years in dairy farming and 13 years as a livestock agent, Brian brings a wealth of rural knowledge and a genuine passion for working with farming communities. Brian's role in the Kiwifruit Growers Services Team covers the regions of Te Puke and Tauranga (from Pukehina to Aongatete), South Auckland, and Waikato. His primary focus is on building strong relationships and delivering practical, results-driven solutions for clients, demonstrating his commitment to client satisfaction.

Brian's background includes eight years as a kiwifruit grower and four years with Trevelyan’s as a Kiwifruit Grower Representative, giving him valuable insights into the horticulture industry and the challenges faced by producers. 

In 2023, his dedication to community and teamwork was recognised when he was named Bay of Plenty Squash’s Volunteer of the Year, a testament to his commitment beyond his professional responsibilities.

Outside of work, Brian's leadership skills are further demonstrated in his role as the Club Captain for Te Puke Squash. He is also an avid trout fisherman, often found on Lake Rotomā. Whether on the court, the water, or the farm, Brian enjoys connecting with people and making a positive impact.

Daniel Green
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative
Daniel 'Guns' Green

Daniel has spent over two decades in the horticultural industry, starting his career by managing kiwifruit orchards in the Te Puke region. During the P.S.A. outbreak, he served as a technical representative, providing practical advice and tailored solutions to both the horticulture and floriculture sectors. 

In 2017, Daniel returned to the kiwifruit industry as a Kiwifruit Grower Representative at Trevelyan’s, where he supports growers in the Te Puke and Eastern Bay territories. Known for his approachable style and extensive industry knowledge, he collaborates closely with growers to help them achieve optimal results for their orchards. 

Daniel’s qualifications include Levels 2, 3, and 4 in Fruit Production (with applied science) and Level 4 (Advanced) in Fruit for Profit. He is a graduate of the Hort NZ Leadership Programme, has completed training through the Institute of Directors, chaired Future Leaders from 2017 to 2019, and currently serves as a trustee for the Rural Support Trust. Additionally, he is a member of the Primary Sector Co-ordination Group and the Te Puke Fruit Growers Association. 

Outside of work, Daniel enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, and making the most of the great outdoors.

Marty Blake
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative
Marty 'Motocross Mayhem' Blake

Marty is a valued member of the Kiwifruit Grower Services team, providing expert on-orchard advice across Pāpāmoa, Te Puke, Paengaroa, Pongakawa, and Pukehina. His passion lies in helping growers maximise the potential of their orchards. 

Born and raised in Matamata, Marty grew up on his family's dairy farm in Ōkoroire. After finishing school, he worked as a bank teller for a year before pursuing an apprenticeship in motorcycle engineering, a field in which he spent six years. He later returned to dairy farming, starting at the family farm and then in Mamaku, where he eventually purchased a farm after sharemilking. 

In 2004, Marty made a significant shift to the kiwifruit industry by acquiring orchards in Maketu and later on, Te Matai Road. With over 21 years of experience, he has held various roles at DMS, EHC, and currently at Trevelyan's. Today, he lives on his kiwifruit orchard on No. 1 Road, Te Puke, purchased in 2014. 

Outside of work, Marty cherishes time with family and enjoys trail and road motorcycling. He is a dedicated supporter of the Warriors, Bay of Plenty Steamers, Chiefs, and All Blacks. A career highlight was winning the inaugural Trevelyan’s Cup for upholding the company values.

Michael Blattmann
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative
Michael ‘Air’ Blattmann

In the Kiwifruit Grower Services Team, Michael is dedicated to practical orchard management and collaborating closely with growers to maximise orchard potential. His expertise encompasses day-to-day operations and the development of effective long-term strategies that foster healthy vines and consistent yields. 

Michael covers a diverse grower territory from Katikati to Gisborne, gaining valuable insights into various orchards and their unique challenges. These challenges, which can range from soil conditions to pest management, have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the kiwifruit industry. With 19 years in the industry, Michael's background includes 15 years at Plant & Food Research, where he was involved in both plant physiology and clonal teams. This experience granted him in-depth technical knowledge, which he has applied in his current role at Trevelyan's over the past four years, supporting growers in achieving their production goals. 

Outside work, Michael finds joy in the outdoors. On weekends, he can often be found conquering mountain bike trails or enjoying a day of fishing, relishing the fresh air and all that New Zealand's great outdoors has to offer.

Peter Crotty
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative
Peter 'Poppa' Crotty

Peter's greatest strength is being a "people person" in the Trevelyan’s Kiwifruit Grower Services Team; he excels at building genuine, lasting relationships. All of the growers he collaborates with are based in Te Puke. 

Peter's journey in the kiwifruit industry began in 1978 when he arrived in Te Puke after studying at Massey University. He was drawn to the region by friends who were already making strides in the industry. Starting from the orchards, he transitioned to one of the leading kiwifruit export companies in the 1980s and witnessed the establishment of the Kiwifruit Marketing Board in 1989. For over 30 years, he honed his skills in the packaging industry, focusing on sales and marketing, and serving the kiwifruit and avocado sectors. In August 2021, he brought this wealth of experience to Trevelyan's as a Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative, ensuring his career remained deeply rooted in horticulture. 

When he is not at work, you'll find Peter at his six-acre lifestyle block in Tauranga, where he plants native species, cares for horses, and enjoys fishing. He cherishes spending time with family and friends, and he appreciates good food and travel. His grandson Nixon, who is a significant part of his life, brings him endless joy, pride, and countless memorable moments!

Our Avocado Team

Daniel Birnie
Head of Avocado
Daniel ‘Marathon Man’ Birnie

As Head of Avocados at Trevelyan’s, Daniel oversees all aspects of the avocado business, from orchard to market, and works closely with growers to help them succeed. Daniel's territory stretches from Ōpōtiki to the Coromandel, including Mōtītī Island, Hawke's Bay, Waikato, and across the Bay of Plenty. 

Originally from the Bay of Plenty but raised in Hawke's Bay, Daniel's commitment to the avocado industry is unwavering. This dedication was further solidified when he established his avocado orchard in Ōtamarākau, providing him with invaluable first-hand experience of the opportunities and challenges faced by growers.

Daniel holds a Bachelor of Social Science and a Diploma in Management Studies from the University of Waikato and has successfully completed the Kellogg Rural Leadership Course. His governance experience includes serving as a director for both BayFarms and NZ Avocado, further solidifying his expertise and credibility in the industry.

Outside of work, Daniel can be often found out on the water, paddling the long line off Pāpāmoa Beach in search of the perfect catch — a great way to relax and recharge.

Anne Partridge
Avocado Grower Services Representative
Anne ‘Green Fingers’ Partridge

As an Avocado Growers Services Representative, Anne’s territory encompasses the vast stretch from Ōpōtiki through to Whitianga, and is dedicated to ensuring that growers in this region receive the support they need. 

Since 2001, Anne has been a trusted figure in the horticulture industry, particularly in the avocado sector. Her roles have been diverse, covering everything from propagation and nursery management to block development, pest monitoring, and harvesting. Today, Anne's primary focus is on supporting growers, ensuring their orchard operations run smoothly and guiding new BayFarms growers towards NZ GAP certification.

Anne grew up on dairy farms in the Far North before moving to the Bay of Plenty to raise children, and it's here in the Bay of Plenty that Anne has built her career around avocados.

While Anne's professional life is centred around avocados, and the year-round demands of harvesting, she always finds time for family, her home fruit and veg garden, and restoring furniture on rainy days. Additionally, Anne takes pride in her long-standing involvement with the Te Puke Junior Football Club, a commitment that spans over 22 years! Recently, Anne was nominated as a Tower Local Hero Medallist, for her contribution to local football. 

Stu Jennings
Avocado Orchard Manager
Stu 'Trip-Tramping Around' Jennings

Stu is the Avocado Orchard Manager at Trevelyan’s, a role he has held for the past ten years.  

He is responsible for overseeing Trevelyan’s Managed Orchards (TMO) avocado operations across the Bay of Plenty, ensuring orchards are productive, well-managed, and delivering strong outcomes for clients. Stu works closely with orchard contractors and internal teams to maintain high standards across all aspects of orchard performance, with a practical, hands-on approach that reflects his deep knowledge of plant systems and growing environments. 

With an impressive 40 years of experience in plant propagation, Stu brings a wealth of expertise across a wide range of species and varieties. His career has spanned wholesale, retail, and food service markets, giving him a broad and highly practical understanding of horticulture. This depth of experience underpins his ability to manage avocado orchards with precision and care, while continuously improving plant health and productivity. 

One of Stu’s proudest achievements is his work rescuing and propagating rare Madagascan plants in New Zealand, some of which are now extinct in the wild — a testament to his passion and skill in plant conservation. 

Outside of work, Stu enjoys motorbike riding and spends time operating his own subtropical nursery, continuing his lifelong passion for plants.