Fifth-generation Methven farmer and former Nuffield scholar Hamish Marr has been appointed New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy (SATE). He will take over the role from Mel Poulton, who has served as SATE since 2020. In this role he will work alongside Government to support key objectives and advocate for our farmers and growers off-shore.
Hamish is an arable farmer based in Methven, producing high quality seeds for global export. He was named New Zealand Seed Grower of the Year in 2022 in recognition of his work. Until recently, Hamish was also Vice-Chair of the New Zealand Seeds Authority.
FAR Board Chair, Steven Bierema says he's delighted at the news.
“Hamish will be a well informed and incredibly considered representative of the New Zealand Agriculture, wherever he goes. We couldn't ask for a better person. It is great to have him as a fellow arable grower.”
Minister for Trade and Export Growth, Damien O’Connor says that as the Special Agricultural Trade Envoy, Hamish will play an important role supporting New Zealand exporters to seize new opportunities in market, as well as working with our trading partners to tell the story of our move towards a sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture sector.
The announcement was made at the National Field Days by Minister of Agriculture and Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O’Connor. Hamish takes up the new role from 1 July.