Our Kiwifruit Team

Get To Know Us

At Trevelyan’s, we help kiwifruit growers thrive from orchard to market. Our expert teams combine technical know-how, hands-on support, and clear communication to deliver confidence and results every season. From on-orchard advice to efficient post-harvest solutions, we’re here to help your kiwifruit orchard perform at its best.

Kiwifruit Team

Grower Services Team

If you are looking for a dedicated point of contact for your orchard needs that listens to what you want to achieve, consider calling Trevelyan’s Kiwifruit Grower Services Team today.

Amanda Murdoch
Kiwifruit Grower Liaison

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!

Peter Crotty
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative

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!

Mike Perrett
Head of Kiwifruit Grower Services

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.

Michael Blattmann
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative

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.

Marty Blake
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative

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.

Daniel Green
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative

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.

Brian Hodge
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative

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.

Brent McDowell
Kiwifruit Grower Services Representative

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.

Amy Willoughby
Business Development Manager

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.

Kiwifruit Grower Services

Accessible and Reliable

Quality advice

Our Kiwifruit Grower Services Team provides growers with industry updates and timely advice to ensure they keep up with the latest best practices and can promptly action what’s needed on their orchards.

Proactive engagement

To ensure a smooth postharvest process, our Kiwifruit Grower Services Team work proactively with their growers to ensure they are up-to-date with the relevant Zespri guidelines, KiwiGreen, GAP, and Spray Diary requirements.

Helpful at harvest

Our Kiwifruit Grower Services Team works closely with their growers and orchard managers to organise testing for harvest and ensure that the fruit is harvested promptly, at the optimal maturity, maximising returns and fruit quality.

Introducing our

Organics Team

Led by our Organic Category Manager, Amanda Murdoch, and supported by our Head of Kiwifruit Grower Services, Mike Perrett, this team provides growers with support and guidance around the organics certification journey.

Introducing our

Kiwifruit Technical Team

Trevelyan’s highly experienced Kiwifruit Technical Team provides growers with the best advice possible to improve their orchard's performance, mitigate risks, and develop tailored, innovative orchard solutions to maximise kiwifruit quality.

Left: Gordon Skipage - Head of Technical, Right: Pranoy Pal - Kiwifruit Technical Manager
Trevelyan's has

Skilled Technical Specialists

Orchard performance

Our Kiwifruit Technical Team is focused on improving a kiwifruit orchard's performance by mitigating risks and developing tailored, innovative orchard solutions to maximise kiwifruit quality.

Data-driven decisions

Numerous factors can influence orchard performance: pests, disease, irrigation, fertilisers, pruning, climate, and more. Our Team evaluates all indicators to provide expert advice and solutions.

Shared knowledge

Our Kiwifruit Technical Team shares knowledge by hosting Field Days, providing email TechTips, and producing seasonal spray guides, production calculators, and growth charts.

Introducing our

Trevelyan’s Managed Orchards Team

The Trevelyan’s Managed Orchards Team (TMO) is led by our Orchard Operations Manager, Dan McKenney, with a team of eight Orchard Managers and their respective teams. Our TMO Team is responsible for providing numerous orchard services.

Introducing

Our Growers

Our kiwifruit growers trust us to manage their orchards and fruit with care. Throughout the entire supply chain, we help our kiwifruit growers get the best results; a true partnership every step of the way.

Brendon & Belinda Jones
Kiwifruit Growers
"We choose Trevelyan’s because they are a family-owned business, and very efficient; always looking to do their best for us. They have a great reputation, and we enjoy working with them!"
Jessica & Kaspar Beech
Kiwifruit Growers
"We choose to partner with Trevelyan’s because they are approachable, transparent and have inspirational sustainability practices. The Trevelyan’s Team has been invaluable in helping us stay up to date with best practices and providing helpful information, as we are new to kiwifruit growing and have a lot to learn, especially with a young family."
Karen & Kelly Shaw
Kiwifruit Growers
"We chose Trevelyan’s because they are a family-owned packhouse. They offer a personal service, with a non-corporate type relationship, that always meets our needs. Our grower representative is a great communicator who really understands our business."