Media Release: 28 May 2025

Farmlands shareholders elect Dr. Claire Nicholson to Board

 

Farmlands Co-operative has announced that Dr. Claire Nicholson has been voted in as the shareholder elected Board position role in the 2025 Farmlands Board Elections. This election underscores the co-operative's ongoing commitment to strong governance, driving innovation and delivering enhanced value and productivity, for New Zealand's farmers and growers.

 

Dr. Nicholson was elected from a strong pool of candidates, following the close of voting on Friday, 12 July. She will re-join the Board for another three-year term, continuing her valuable contribution to the Co-operative's governance and its forward-looking strategy.

 

The Farmlands Board expressed its appreciation for the high calibre of all candidates who stood in this year's election, each demonstrating a clear and unwavering commitment to New Zealand's Agri-sector and future.

 

Upon her election, Dr. Nicholson shared her heartfelt gratitude for shareholders' trust and support. "It’s a privilege to represent our shareholder community. I’m looking forward to continuing the mahi alongside the Board and management team to keep Farmlands strong, sustainable and delivering real value to all of us on the land. There’s plenty of work ahead. I’m excited about what’s possible when we stay focused, work together and keep farmers at the heart of every decision."

 

With a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and extensive experience across the animal health and ruminant nutrition industries, including roles as General Manager at Intervet NZ and in business development at Agrifeeds, Dr. Nicholson brings a unique blend of scientific and commercial acumen. Her governance experience is also extensive, having served as a Director for Pāmu, the NZ Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre, and previously for the Taranaki-based Māori farming group Parininihi ki Waitōtara for nine years. She is also actively involved in advisory groups focused on research, product development and innovation investment. A graduate of the Hillary Leadership Programme and a Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year finalist, Claire is personally involved in horticultural, sheep and beef and dairy businesses, providing a deep, on-the-ground understanding of the New Zealand rural environment.

 

Dr. Nicholson is committed to ensuring the voice of Farmlands' farming and growing customers is heard loud and clear, as the Co-op continues its mission to improve profitability and productivity, adapting to the evolving needs of the sector.

 

See the full results below.

 

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