Our People

Mark Ter-Morshuizen joined Ballance in April 2011.

He is passionate about the rural sector and brings a wide range of farming experience, gained in both New Zealand and South African agricultural industries.

Having completed a Diploma in Agriculture, Mark managed both dairy farms and large sugar cane estates in his home country before moving with his family to New Zealand in 2005. In the following six years he worked in a variety of rural industries, including a dairy farm, a dairy genetics company, rural banking, and animal feeds.

Passionate about agriculture, Mark enjoys working with the varied farming systems in his region and building relationships with people involved in the industry.

Cambridge based Mark spends his spare time on his lifestyle block. He can also be found fishing and recently has got back into shooting.

Glenn Rowlinson is the Ballance Nutrient Specialist for the Tauranga / Rotorua region.

Glenn grew up on a family farm in Ngakuru where he is still a fourth generation farmer in the area. After leaving school he worked on the farm until he decided to follow a career in rural sales. This led him to a role selling Honda motorcycles and then eventually onto a Technical Sales Position for Farm Source in the Rotorua region, before joining Ballance in January 2017.

In Glenns’ spare time he is Chairman of the Ngakuru School Board of trustees, and enjoys running their Beef and dairy grazing farm. Glenn enjoys going water-skiing during the summer months.

Rebecca is the Nutrient Specialist covering Eastern Southland / Balclutha.

Rebecca is a born and bred Southlander. Growing up in town, she now resides in Tokanui with her young family, and helps with a bit of farm work in the weekends.

She studied at Massey University before heading home to have her daughter, continuing her studies, and gaining a Diploma of Science and Technology whilst continuing towards her Bachelors.

Rebecca started her career at the freezing works, initially as a grader before working her way up to being leading hand of the slaughter board. She gained experience working for another fertiliser company before joining a great team at Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

In her spare time, Rebecca enjoys playing golf and netball, going fishing, hunting, tramping, and can manage the drafting gate.

Aaron joined the Farm Sustainability Services team in November 2019 to follow his passion in Farm Sustainability. He moved to this role following 11 years as a Key Accounts Representative for Ballance, covering the Waikato and King Country Regions. Prior to that he had worked as a Nutrient Specialist for Ballance in the North Waikato and King Country areas.

Aaron grew up on the family dairy farm in the King Country. He went on to achieve an Honours degree in Agricultural Science at Lincoln University, and furthered his practical education by working on both dairy and sheep and beef farms. In 2015 completed his certification to become certified as a Nutrient Management Adviser. And has since also completed Soil Conservation and Green House Gases courses at Massey University. Aaron is also certified with the Waikato Region Council as a Certified Farm Nutrient Advisor (CFNA).

The opportunity to get out and meet a variety of farmers is one aspect of the job that Aaron really enjoys. He also gets satisfaction from working with his farming customers to make a positive and sustainable change for their farming business.

When he's not working, Aaron likes to indulge in some fishing and spend time with his family.

David Salmon is the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist for Putaruru/Arapuni.

After high school David worked on farms to fund an agricultural economics degree at Massey University. A post-graduate OE saw him explore Europe and the Middle East, before returning home. He worked on the commissioning of the Litchfield Cheese Factory, and then later moved on to manage a 400-cow dairy farm near Gordonton.

'I joined now Ballance over 10 years ago and love helping our farmers increase their profitability and environmental protection.'

In Feburary 2017, David completed the Te Araroa Cycle trail on his mountain bike, Cape Reinga to Bluff (3000km) in 18 days. Since then he has taken up Ultra Marathon running, embarking on a challenge invloving the New Zealand Great Walks, where he aimed to run each of the tracks in a day - completing the last of these runs in late 2021. He likes to run, cycle, swim and kayak and devotes time to his family, and the Shininglights Trust where he is a volunteer for the “Hope Project” initiatives.

Andrew Sanders joined Ballance as a Nutrient Specialist in the Rotorua district in May 2004, and was promoted to the position of Area Sales Manager in April 2008. After another promotion Andrew became the North Island Regional Sales Manager, and is now the National Sales Manager.

Prior to joining Ballance, Andrew ran an agricultural contracting business in the central North Island. A native of Yorkshire, England, Andrew grew up in a small farming village and says his choice of career was influenced by his grandparents, who had an arable farm nearby.

After graduating with a Diploma in Agriculture, Andrew specialised in pigs and cereals, progressing through the ranks to Assistant Manager of a 550-sow breeding unit and 500-hectare arable farm.

Jessica has been with Ballance since January 2004, initially working as a Nutrient Specialist in the Southland region before being promoted to the Key Accounts position in 2011. She has completed a Bachelor of Science through Otago University, and followed this up with a Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Agriculture) from Lincoln University, as well as being a Certified Nutrient Management Advisor.

She grew up on the family 325-hectare sheep farm in Southland, and regularly spends time back on the farm helping out, which enables her to hone her practical farming skills. Jessica has been involved in the rural community through a number of roles with the likes of Young Farmers, Young Professionals, Dairy Women’s Network Conference Committee and the Monitor Farm Advisory Board. She also helps with mentoring fellow Nutrient Specialists and has taken on the challenge of secondments into management roles within the company.

Amy Tomsett is the Nutrient Specialist for the Whanganui/Lower Rangitikei. She has been with Ballance since March 2011, originally joining as a nutrient specialist in the King Country. After 8 years in the King County, she was a looking for a new challenge and the mix of Sheep & Beef, Dairy and arable was too much to resist, so made the move down to the mighty Whanganui/Rangitikei. Born and bred in Tauranga and raised on a sheep and beef farm in Hawkes Bay, she grew up helping her dad on the farm and that lead me into studying at Massey University completing a Diploma in Agriculture. In her weekend’s you will find her on a horse playing polocrosse in summer and out on the hunt field in winter exploring what rural communities have to offer.

Raised on an orchard in Hawke’s Bay, Rowan was well educated even before studying forestry science at Canterbury University.

He joined Elders after working in labour contracting to horticulture, viticulture and agriculture in Canterbury, Marlborough and Otago, switching to Ballance in early 2010.

'I am keen on hunting and fishing in the Southern Alps and I hope to be able to travel the world and hunt. It’s great getting out and meeting a lot of different people in various farming systems and being able to customise a complete nutrient programme specific for them.'

Noel was brought up on a small drystock farm near Umawera, his secondary schooling was at Okaihau College.

After a short stint working on a sheep and beef farm outside Masterton, he then headed to Massey University to complete a BAg. A desire to return to Northland led to 4 years in rural merchandise, from where the opportunity arose to join Farmers Fertiliser in 1989.

After 10 years in the fertiliser industry Noel left to rear calves on a small block just north of Moerewa.

Married, and with two small children Noel moved to Kerikeri and joined a small family business in the Nursery/landscaping industry. Fifteen years later the urge to re-join agriculture led to him buying a 15ha block at Pakaraka, returning to rural merchandise for a short period before the opportunity to re-join Ballance.

Noel’s hobbies include “The Farm” and building outdoor furniture. He also has two adult sons, both living near Perth, Western Australia

Andrew Rutherford is the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist for the Central Plateau, and has worked in the agriculture industry for 20 years. He spent seven years with PGG Wrightson Ltd working up through the ranks from a trainee in the Central Plateau to Branch Manager in Katikati, before joining Ballance in March 2002. A promotion to Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist followed in April 2008 - a role in which Andrew enjoys building strong business relationships, and having a positive influence on his customers farming operations through providing quality advice.

Having grown up on his family’s 225-hectare sheep and beef farm in the southern Hawke’s Bays, Andrew has a thorough and practical appreciation of farming. He has combined this experience with the learnings gained through his time at both PGG Wrightson and Ballance to develop a broad knowledge of the agricultural sector.

He has also gained accreditation as a Certified Nutrient Management Advisor, and has spent a number of years as the Judges Coordinator for the Ahuwhenua Trophy Competition. This has extended his network within both Maori farming and the farming industry as a whole.

Leonie grew up on a Sheep and Beef farm locally at Te Tipua, finding throughout her younger years she enjoyed being outside and helping her dad on the farm. She attended St Peters College in Gore and then went on to Lincoln University to complete her Bachelor of Agriculture degree in 2009. Being a part of a long running agricultural family gave Leonie the passion for agriculture, hard work and respect for what goes into the industry.

Leonie has worked on a few different farming operations such as sheep milking, a self-sufficient organic block as well as three dairy farms and a sheep and beef farm - all within Southland and Canterbury so has had a varied perspective from different aspects of the industry.

A small stint overseas got the travel bug out of her system, before joining Altum (now Ballance) in August 2012, covering from Tokanui to Millers Flat, across to Milton and everything in between. The area is one with significant differences between places, and Leonie finds it interesting how different areas deal with their challenges.

In her spare time Leonie likes to keep fit by playing netball for Knapdale and Basketball for the Diamonds in Gore and also a bit of soil testing keeps her on her toes!

Martyn has been working for Ballance in the Te Awamutu area since June 2005, having spent the previous ten years working in the rural banking sector, much of it in the greater Waikato district.

Holidays on his uncle’s Te Puke sheep and kiwifruit farm was enough to convince a young Martyn that his future lay in agriculture. A season dairy farming helped fund him through a Bachelor of Agriculture (Rural Valuation) at Massey University, after which he added to his practical experience by working on several different farms in New Zealand, Australia, England, and Scotland.

Away from work he attempts to stave off the years by staying active with squash, surfing and the garden. The kids have left home but are local and still have shared interests with Mum and Dad.

Manjit Singh is the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist for the Huntly / Morrinsville North region. Originally from India, Manjit went to primary school in Hamilton, going on to graduate with a Masters degree from the University of NZ-WAI. His early career was in the cosmetics industry in Auckland, after which he bought a 280-cow dairy farm near Tahuna, which he now farms with his wife and two children.

Manjit originally joined the Ballance team in February 2009 and has really enjoyed getting to meet so many farmers and doing the best we can for them.

Outside of work, he enjoys reading, realxing abd keeping fit with aerobics and light weight exercises.

After graduating from Massey University with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science, majoring in farm management and valuation, Grahame joined the Rural Bank in Taranaki. In a varied career, Grahame has held a number of roles with different organisations across the North Island including: client relationship management, farm consultancy and leadership of teams.

Grahame has a passion for coaching others to be effective and achieving their goals and brings a wealth of coaching and commercial acumen to the sales team.

Grahame also holds a Post graduate Diploma in Business and Administration endorsed in Human Resource Management and a Diploma in Business in Property Management.

When not working Grahame enjoys a range of activities including endurance events, coaching children’s football and following a range of sports.

Courtney completed her B Com in Agriculture via correspondence whilst holding down a full time job working for Farmlands - this meant the need to be very time focused and planned. A year after completing her B Com Courtney joined Ballance in 2013, progressing through to Key Accounts starting in December 2016.

Both the Intermediate and Advanced Sustainable Nutrient management courses have been completed allowing the submission of papers to obtain accreditation as a Certified Nutrient Management Advisor. Courtney has also sat the Women in Leadership course run by Agri Womens Development Trust.

Courtney is also a part of the Sheep and Beef strategy team that was set up in 2016 at Ballance. This team play an important role in helping Ballance understand how we help our customers meet future needs and ensure our sales team receive the right training.

Shaun Pulham joined Ballance in July 2006 as the Nutrient Specialist for the Western Bay of Plenty, and later transferred to the Te Awamutu East region. In January 2014 he was promoted into his current Key Accounts role.

He spent his childhood on the family 450-hectare sheep and beef farm on the southern side of Kawhia Harbour, and furthered this practical knowledge by working on dairy farms in the NZ-WAI region, and mixed cropping farms in Canterbury both before and during his studies. Shaun completed a Diploma in Farm Management and a Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) at Lincoln University.

During his time with Ballance Shaun has been involved with judging the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, and has attended a range of agricultural conferences. He credits these activities with both furthering his education, and keeping him up to date with the latest innovations.

Neil Walker joined Ballance in January 2011, having previously been the assistant farm manager on a 1500-cow farm in Hawke's Bay.

Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Neil spent his early work years in the retail, motor and property sectors. He and his family immigrated to New Zealand in 2008, and Neil embarked on a career in agriculture. While working on dairy farms, Neil took the time to complete a number of agricultural qualifications, to ensure that he could gain as much knowledge of the industry as possible.

Neil spent his first 5 years with Ballance as a Nutrient Specialist in the Far North and during this time, he was able to complete his intermediate and advanced sustainable nutrient management papers through Massey University as well as build and forge excellent relationships with his customers.

Neil is currently servicing the Mid North region where his combination of customer service, technical knowledge and practical farming experience make him an ideal representative for Ballance and Mid North farmers. When he is not working, Neil is an avid runner and a keen fisher-man

Shaun joined Ballance in 2012.

With a Bachelor of Education, Shaun began working life as a teacher before deciding to go dairy farming after returning from his OE. After 17 years milking cows, the last eight on his own farm, it was time for a change and Shaun sold the farm, moved to town, and began working for the Taranaki Regional Council. Two years after working for the council, there was an opportunity to work for Ballance, the company he had used himself for nutrient advice while farming.

Shaun enjoys discussions around farming and loves the positive role he can play in assisting farmers achieve their farming goals.

Outside of work Shaun enjoys fishing, golf, family time and visiting new places

Nick Riley spent the first 8 years of his working life on a dry stock farm prior to formalising his experience with an Applied Science Degree majoring in Rural Valuation & Farm Management. Following on from this, Nick has spent time in banking and in the fertiliser industry.

Nick and his wife have a passion for farming and have an interest in a 550-cow farm in Southland.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Nutrient Specialist role for Nick is helping farmers achieve production goals, and ensuring he provides them with the most cost effective products to achieve these goals.

Nick returned to Ballance in May 2014, following 2 years in the animal health industry where he gained valuable experience.

When Nick is not working, he enjoys fishing and other outdoor pursuits along with spending time on the side line supporting his stepson at Cricket and Rugby.

Damian joined Ballance in March 2011, having completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture) at Massey University.

Having grown up on a dairy farm in Reporoa, Damian furthered his practical knowledge of agriculture by working on a variety of farms both before and during his studies. He completed his Intermediate and Advanced Sustainable Nutrient Management certification through Massey University. He has also completed the Nutrient Management Adviser Certification Programme being one of the very first people to do so. Damian is focused on delivering good service and advice to meet the expectations of our key customers. One of his strong attributes is good planning.

Robert Cargill (also known as Blue) started in August 2017, and is the Nutrient Specialist for Whakatane/Galatea based out of Edgecumbe.

He has spent most of his life in the rural sector, with 14 years experience working as a Technical Sales Rep with two of the country’s largest Rural Merchant companies prior to joining Ballance.

Blue was previously based in the Horowhenua and Manawatu before relocating to the Bay of Plenty, and is passionate about the rural industry. He enjoys the interaction with his farmers and is looking forward to working alongside them, helping with solutions to increase profitability in their business.

Outside of work he enjoys golf, fishing and horse racing; his wife is a former Jockey and trained their own racehorses.

Trained as an engineer and geologist, over the past 40 years Albert has led the construction and operation of large scale oil and gas, mining and utility assets throughout the world. Until August 2018 he was the Chief Executive of Ōtākaro Limited, the Crown Company responsible for the Anchor Project programme for central Christchurch and was the Chief Executive of Genesis Energy for 8 years before that. In New Zealand, he has held similar executive roles for OceanaGold Ltd and L&M Mining Ltd. A Canadian, Albert is married to a New Zealander and has been a resident of Canterbury for more than 30 years, although working overseas for much of that time. Most of Albert’s experience has involved significant senior level political, regulatory and environmental management, as well as multicultural community and stakeholder relations management. Albert has provided Board level governance for the past 25 years and is presently the Independent Chair of the HW Richardson Group, Independent Chair of FarmRight Ltd, the Chair of Leighs Construction, a Member of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority Board and a Director of the LGNZ Independent Assessment Board.

Sarah von Dadelszen, along with husband Sam, operates a 13,000 stock unit sheep and beef property and a 350-cow dairy farm near Takapau, in the central Hawke’s Bay. Sarah has been actively involved in governance roles across the rural sector for 20 years, including the NZ Beef Council, Fonterra Shareholders Council and as a trustee of the Agricultural and Marketing Research and Development Trust (AGMARDT). Current roles include the FMG and Centraline Boards. Sarah has more recently gained a deeper understanding of the intricacies of global business, completing the INSEAD International Governance Programme, and global agri-business, following attendance at the Stanford University Business School with a New Zealand Primary Industry New Zealand Leadership Group, and a trip to Russia and Morocco to attend the International Fertiliser Association Conference and meet with key suppliers to build a further understanding of the fertiliser supply chain.

Jason drives our sales strategy and leads a nationwide team of Nutrient Specialists, along with key accounts, customer services, retail merchant relationships, sales capability and the Co-operatives’ science extension team that is focused on knowledge-sharing with farmers. 

Jason’s deep knowledge of agri-business and genuine passion for the primary sector is hugely valuable as Ballance focuses on the changing needs of New Zealand farmers and growers – providing tailored nutrients and advisory services, backed by the best science and technology.

Jason has extensive commercial experience from more than 15 years in senior executive and governance roles in the dairy sector, including six years leading Fonterra’s rural supplies division, General Manager Commercial in the Supplier and External Relations division and senior strategy positions.  He has an outstanding track record in rural leadership, sales strategy, growing competitive capability and delivering what rural customers want.

Ian Ross joined Ballance in March 2018 bringing with him experience from a number of previously held leadership roles.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Ian completed his secondary schooling in NZ and went on to Massey University where he completed a Bachelor of Agriculture.

With a focus on the primary sector, Ian has experience across Dairy, Meat, Arable and Finance disciplines. He brings to this role a passion for customer service and the development of people.

Ian’s early career involved agronomy and grain manager roles prior to a period working in rural banking, where he held a number of senior leadership roles. Recently, that change in career direction involved Ian leading sales teams in the corporate segment of primary industry training.

Outside work, Ian has a keen interest in salt and freshwater fishing, boating, game bird shooting and golf.

Kim became the Corporate Account Specialist for Waikato in 2017. She brings with her a wealth of experience, having previously worked for Ballance for 9 years in Nutrient Specialist and Technical Coach roles, interspersed with raising her family and running her own business. Kim completed a degree and postgraduate studies in Animal Science, where she met her husband Gene. They have a small dairy grazing and beef farm near Te Awamutu, having previously had a dairy farm. Kim has a passion to help customers reach production, growth and sustainability goals. Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending time with her family (including coaching hockey), swimming, photography (and teaching photography), and skating.

Hamish is the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist for Manawatu / Lower Rangitikei.

He originally joined Ballance in October 2018 as part of our Sales Intern programme based in the Western Lower North Island, before moving north to Taupo in February 2019. Through his career at Ballance Hamish has prided himself on his community involvement, challenging the status quo to support our environmental opportunities and trial work around the Central Plateau.

Growing up on a 200 ha intensive sheep, beef finishing and cropping farm west of Feilding fuelled a keen interest in the agricultural sector and being part of the farming community. Wanting to pursue a career in Agriculture, Hamish completed a Bachelor of AgriCommerce at Massey before heading overseas on his OE. His journey took him through Europe, the UK and Canada, and included working on Arable farms in Western Australia and Scotland.

He is a social and active person with an interest in rugby, motocross, snowboarding and hunting.

Dacey Balle is Managing Director of Balle Bros Group, a vertically integrated fresh produce supplying retail and foodservice businesses across New Zealand and internationally. Balle Bros Group has growing operations covering 4,000ha across a number of regions including Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Ruapehu, Hawkes Bay and Canterbury. Dacey is also part of a family owned 1,000ha dairy operation at Mercer in the North Waikato. A chartered accountant his governance roles also include Onions New Zealand and Potatoes New Zealand. Past governance experience also includes directorships with Manuka SA and Open Country Dairy Limited.

Duncan, along with his wife Julie, farm a mix of dairy, kiwifruit and forestry operations in the northern King Country near Otorohanga. A staunch advocate for the co-operative model, Duncan was previously Chair of the Fonterra Shareholders’ Council from 2015 to 2019. Duncan has travelled extensively into the global markets, both during his time at Fonterra and also at Ballance. Having a global view of customer and consumer trends and how they shape business in New Zealand. Duncan has a background as a rural finance manager and runs a farm consultancy business, providing operational and strategic support for clients nationwide. Duncan sits on various advisory boards, both in agriculture and construction, and currently chairs the Board at Otorohanga College.

Dot joined Ballance in July 2019 as Nutrient Specialist Putaruru / Tokoroa.

She brings extensive experience to the role, having been dairy farming for over 10 years and also holds a Certificate in Advanced Sustainable Nutrient Management from Massey University.

Dot is passionate about the agriculture industry and enjoys helping clients to improve their productivity and reach their business goals.

A mum to two boys, she spends her time outside of work with family, and helping friends on their farms.

Matt has had significant experience in working within large manufacturing and distribution businesses to identify value drivers, lift performance and expand into adjacent growth opportunities.
 
He is a Chartered Accountant and has a BBS (Accounting and Finance) from Massey University as well as post graduate studies in leadership. Matt was previously Group GM of Finance at Fletcher Building for two years and more recently as a Divisional CFO with financial responsibility for a number of key manufacturing or distribution businesses in New Zealand and Australia including PlaceMakers, Fletcher Steel, Mico, Laminex NZ, Iplex NZ, Tradelink and Stramit. He also previously worked at Spark where he held a number of Group Head of Finance roles, including Financial Control, Head of Tax and Treasury Operations.

Of Te Ātiawa decent, Matt also volunteers his time as an advisor into the Te Ātiawa o te Waka-a-Māui Trust Board. 

Andrew started his farming career working on a sheep and beef farm in Southern Hawkes Bay, followed by several years on dairy farms in the lower North Island. He has spent time in England working on three farms making silage.

He obtained a Horticulture Science degree from Lincoln University, and pursued a career in Viticulture working in Waipara, Hawke's Bay and Northland before joining Ballance in 2019.

Kate joined the Farm Sustainability Services team in June 2019, based in the South Island.

Born and bred in Mid Canterbury on an irrigated mixed sheep and cropping farm, Kate then went on to Lincoln University completing a Bachelor of Commerce & Management. 

Together with her husband and two children, they farm a 650cow dairy farm in an equity partnership near Hinds. This has given her first-hand experience at dealing with environmental compliance as their farming operation falls under a Land Use to Farm consent and are required to make Nitrogen reductions. Kate enjoys being able to help farmers through this space to achieve the best possible outcomes for their business.   

In her spare time, when not helping on the farm Kate enjoys horse riding, squash, water sports and spending time with friends and family. 

Nicole joined the Farm Sustainability Service team in January 2020, working from our Morrinsville Service Centre.

She gained a Bachelor of Science from Massey University in 2017, with a focus on both animal science and biological sciences. Prior to joining Ballance her work has been predominantly in the dairy industry, covering the sustainability, food safety and quality spaces. Nicole also has practical experience in the industry spending her downtime from university on dairy farms and, as a Cambridge local, has spent considerable time on thoroughbred stud farms.

Sustainability is an area of high importance to the future of New Zealand agriculture, and Nicole feels privileged to be able to assist farmers in navigating this complex topic.

Jackie is an internationally experienced human resources professional having lived and worked in Glasgow, London, Paris, Brussels, Tokyo, Auckland and Melbourne. 

Originally from Scotland, Jackie has chosen NZ as her home, and is now a proud kiwi becoming a citizen six years ago.

Jackie has a strong track record in Australasian centric businesses with Carter Holt Harvey, Frucor, Asahi Beverages and Toll Group, after a successful career in the UK with Sara Lee and Promat International.  

Jackie has led teams at both strategic and operational levels, with over 20 years’ experience spanning the full spectrum of HR functions. Her deep knowledge and passion for people and safety is aligned to Ballance and our shareholders core values of working hard for the love our land, our animals and our people.

David has over 20 years’ experience supporting businesses through technology and process management change projects. Leading initiatives for start-ups, public organisations and private companies including Icebreaker and Kathmandu Ltd.  

Becoming a member of Ballance’s Lead team was the logical next step in David’s career as the company values align perfectly with his own. David’s engaging leadership style and extensive IT and project management experience will ensure Ballance can navigate future digital innovations and challenges. 

Originally from the UK, David re-located to NZ in 2005 becoming a citizen in 2016. He has lived in Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and now the lovely Bay of Plenty. 

Dani Darke co-owns a 628-hectare sheep and beef farm in the King Country with husband Anthony. Dani is passionate about New Zealand's rural communities and wants to see them thrive into the future. She has strong networks throughout the agriculture industry, and brings expertise from across the sheep and beef supply chain. Dani holds a partnership role with Rural Coach. Dani holds a Bachelor in Agriculture from Massey University and is a former finance manager with ANZ. She has previously specialised in aviation credit with BP, and has been part of the executive leadership team with a meat processing organisation. Dani's governance experience includes Chair of the Mid Northern Beef + Lamb Council, OSPRI Associate Director, and Co-founder and Chair of the Agribusiness Growth Group.

Maree has been the Nutrient Specialist for Lower Manawatu / Horowhenua since January 2021. 

Maree grew up in Wellington and moved to the Manawatu to gain a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) from Massey University.  Since then, she has held various technical and R&D roles in the agricultural industry, including for AgResearch, Fonterra and ARL, giving her insight into a wide range of farming practises.

Maree and her husband have been in the dairy industry for over 12 years.  In 2018 they sold their herd and now are in an equity partnership on a 550-cow dairy farm in Opiki, right in the middle of her area. 

Maree is passionate about her community and enjoys being involved in local activities.  Outside of work her two girls keep her busy and she likes to read and fish.

Madeleine Horne is the Nutrient Specialist for Methven/ Rakaia region, joining the Central South Island team in April 2021. Her passion for the rural sector stems from a background in beef cattle, being raised on a Murray Grey stud in Tapawera, Northwest of Nelson. Madeleine made the move to Canterbury to study a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science at Lincoln University, completing honours in soil science. After graduating, Madeleine worked as a Soil Fertility Analyst for a nutrient supply company which has provided her with valuable experience in various agricultural systems.

Outside of work, Madeleine enjoys staying active with a keen interest in training and competing sport horses. 

Thomas joined Ballance in August 2021 as the Nutrient Specialist covering Morrinsville / Matamata.

His love for the land and animals started young, and Thomas indulged this through working on several farms around the Waikato. He has also spent several years working in agricultural retail which has enhanced his knowledge of the industry.

Passionate about Kiwi agriculture, Thomas enjoys assisting farmers to see their businesses and the sector in general thrive.

In his free time, Thomas can be found in nature – whether it be walking with his dogs or looking after his other animals, he’s happiest outside.

Katie started working for Ballance Agri-Nutrients in October 2021, covering the Te Aroha / Matamata area.

She grew up on and around dairy farms and lifestyle blocks, igniting her passion for the industry and leading her to tertiary study. After completing a Bachelor of Management studies (AgriBusiness) at the University of Waikato, she embarked on a role with PGG Wrightson Fruitfed Supplies. She credits this role with growing her knowledge in both the Horticulture and Agriculture sectors.

She thrives on building relationships with customers, while striving to continue learning and embracing any challenges that come her way.

JulieBeth (JB) Mikkelsen is the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist for Cambridge/Te Awamutu East.

She grew up on her parent’s farm in Ohaupo, where they had a dairy herd and a Charolais stud. She then attended Massey University, gaining a Bachelor of AgriScience with First Class Honours.

Initially joining Ballance in April 2013 as a cadet, she progressed to Nutrient Specialist for North Otago in August the same year. After spending two years growing the Ballance brand in the region, JB left Ballance in August 2015 to help on her parents beef farm. She also spent some time travelling, taking two trips overseas exploring South East Asia, the UK and Europe before returning to work for Ballance based in the Waikato.

JB has a passion for agriculture and enjoys getting out on farm and being able to help customers with their nutrient and environmental requirements.

Outside of work, JB enjoys travelling, playing social netball, and spending time with friends and family.

Cameron Henderson runs a 400 hectare dairy, dairy support and arable farming business near Oxford, North Canterbury, with wife Sarah. Cameron holds degrees in both Engineering and Finance from Auckland University as well as a certificate in Advanced Sustainable Nutrient Management from Massey University. Cameron has built up considerable knowledge of the dairy industry, spending time with DairyNZ and Fonterra while building his family farming business over the last 12 years. Cameron brings to the Ballance board expertise in business management and global supply chains, together with extensive knowledge of environmental policy. Cameron holds voluntary roles as trustee of North Canterbury Farmers Charitable Trust, Waimakariri Landcare Trust and DairyNZ Dairy Environment Leaders. He is a previous President of North Canterbury Federated Farmers, associate Director at DairyNZ, and Steering Group Member for He Waka Eke Noa. A Nuffield and Kellogg scholar, Cameron was awarded the inaugural Synlait ‘Farming for a Healthier World’ Award in 2022.

Jon started working for Ballance in lower Northland in August 2020, returning for a second stint with the company having previously been in the Bay of Plenty.

Born in the UK in the East Riding of Yorkshire county, Jon spent his early working career on a dairy farm before gaining a National Diploma in Agriculture at Bishop Burton College of Agriculture. After leaving college Jon entered the agrochemical industry working for an international manufacturer. He later took a position working as an agronomist for a large privately owned farming company, farming 11,000 acres of arable land in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Eastern Scotland. During this time he gained the BASIS and FACTS qualifications from Harper Adams.

Jon immigrated to New Zealand in late 1999 where he continued working in the agrochemical industry before joining Ballance in 2011.

When not at work, Jon enjoys fishing, shooting and his other passion is football, in particular supporting Liverpool Football Club.

Angus started his career with Ballance in November 2021, taking on the role of Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist Pahiatua / Dannevirke.

Hailing from a sheep and beef property in Kohunui, Pahiatua, agriculture has always been in Angus's blood. He gained a Diploma of Rural Business from Telford Rural Polytech, and then decided the wide world was calling - heading off on a working OE that took him to Alberta in Canada and West Yorkshire in the UK.

Upon his return to NZ, he and his twin brother embarked on leasing a family dairy, sheep, and beef farm, and also spent 5 years managing a farm in Tararua. He found like-minded souls through NZ Young Farmers and in 2010 was the East Coast Grand Finalist for the Young Farmer of the Year competition.

Angus's spare time is spent with his wife and 5 children - being involved in several community organisations and following the children with their many sporting activities.

Jessica Sharp joined Ballance in October 2015 as a Sales Cadet in the Taranaki region, before progressing to Nutrient Specialist Te Aroha, based out of the Morrinsville Service Centre.

Jessica completed a secondary teaching degree but decided that sitting in a classroom was not for her

Martin Burrows joined Ballance in December 2021 as the Nutrient Specialist covering Blenheim / Kaikoura

A Blenheim local, he brings a wealth of knoweldge to the role with over 20 years experience in the fertiliser industry and is also a Certified Nutrient Management Advisor.

Martin enjoys making connections and building relationships with his customers.

Josh is the Regional Sales Manager for the Western Lower North Island region.

Josh joined Ballance in January 2010 as a Nutrient Specialist in the North Waikato. He then spent two years dairy farming managing 400 cows in the South Waikato, before returning to Ballance to join the Science Extension team where he has spent the last 7.5 years in a technical support role to the business.

Josh is born and bred in Whanganui on a sheep and beef property and attended Lincoln University to complete a Bachelor of Agricultural Science.

Molly joined the Farm Sustainability Services Team in January 2022, based in Patoka, Hawkes Bay. Prior to Ballance, Molly worked in the public sector as a rural compliance officer monitoring resource consents on pastural farming properties. Here, she gained significant knowledge and experience in understanding how regional and national policies impacts the farming sector. Molly is committed to helping farmers navigate the regulation while improving the sustainability of the primary sector as a whole. Molly is able to relate directly to the challenges of the industry, living on a self-contained dairy unit with an adjacent sheep and beef drystock block. Molly is especially passionate about sheep farming where their black face terminal sire stud keeps her busy throughout the week.

Michele Kernahan has more than two decades of governance and leadership experience in the manufacturing, transport, and infrastructure sectors. She is currently Chief Executive Officer for Ritchies Transport, one of New Zealand’s largest bus and passenger transport companies. Michele has spent much of her career at Fletcher Building Limited, where she held a range of roles over the course of 20 years, including Chief Executive of Building Products and Fletcher’s Construction division.  Her supply chain and commercial acumen support our goals of being future ready – guided by knowledge and working to make a real difference to the future of farming and growing in New Zealand. Michele’s proud to be part of a team that is leading environmentally sustainable nutrient management, which is so important for New Zealand consumers, and for farmers and growers to be able to thrive.

Caitlynn Rust joined Ballance in 2021 as an intern while simultaneously covering numerous nutrient specialist roles throughout the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions. She then progressed quickly into a role as key nutrient specialist for her home patch spanning the Rotorua/Tauranga region. Growing up in Rotorua working on both drystock and dairy farms, Caitlynn then completed a bachelor's in Agricultural Science at Massey University with a focus on soil science and innovation. She has since completed her intermediate and advanced sustainable nutrient management courses. Caitlynn has a passion for integration between agriculture, technology, and the environment. This passion has also led her to be part of the Bay of Plenty Ballance Farm Environmental Awards committee.

Kieran joined the Farm Sustainability Service team in July 2022, based out of our Awarua office.
 
He gained a Bachelor of Science majoring in Geology from the University of Canterbury in 2013 and went on to complete a Post Graduate Diploma in Science (endorsed in Environmental Science) in 2014. Upon graduating Kieran spent several years working as a planning consultant in Southland, assisting farmers in obtaining Resource Consents. 
 
Outside of work Kieran enjoys playing Rugby and Squash, following horse racing and spending time with his young family.

Peter joined the Farm Sustainability team in May 2022 as the Farm Sustainability Manager- South Island.

Peter has moved to this role following 4.5 years as a Sales Coach being responsible for running Ballance’s Intern Program along with training and development of new staff in the South Island. Prior to this he also spent 3 years as a Nutrient specialist in the Whangarei region originally starting with Ballance in November 2014. Peter has grown up on a family sheep and beef farm in Southland and has completed a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Massey University.

He enjoys spending time with his team visiting farmers and helping them to tackle challenges to meet their on-farm sustainability goals. Outside of work he enjoys getting out into the hills enjoying the many outdoor activities Canterbury has to offer.

Sophie McLean joined the Farm Sustainability Services Team in November 2020.  Hailing from Southland, Sophie has always had a passion for agriculture and attended Lincoln University to complete a Bachelor of Environmental Management.

After university Sophie worked as a compliance officer for the Southland Regional Council, a role which gave her insight into the pressure the councils have on them with the increasing amounts of environmental legislation. She believes in working alongside our farmers to overcome these challenges and contribute towards positive, sustainable change for the future of farming.

Brittney is the Nutrient Specialist for Taupo/Reporoa, taking on the role in October 2022 after starting her career with Ballance in our Customer Services team early that year. She then progressed into our Outbound Team, where she was responsible for completing fertiliser plans for some of our smaller customers over the phone, giving her the perfect foundation for the Nutrient Specialist role.

Born and bred on an 1800ha hill country sheep and beef farm North of Wanganui, Brittney discovered a passion for the agriculture industry at a young age. This inspired Brittney to complete a Bachelor of Agriculture at Lincoln University. During this time, she has worked on a variety of intensive and extensive farms in the King Country, Southland, and Bay of Plenty. 

In her spare time, she enjoys heading back to the farm hunting, being on the water fishing, skiing, and spending time with friends and family. 

Ella joined the Farm Sustainability Services team in November 2022, based in Southland.

She gained a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from Lincoln University in 2022, covering all aspects of farm management, environmental and financial knowledge. Growing up on a dairy farm in Southland she has built a good understanding of the dairy industry, which has been complemented by practical experience on various sheep and beef farms. She is passionate about the agricultural industry and enjoys working alongside farmers to help them manage all their environmental compliance demands. Outside of work Ella enjoys tramping, playing sport, boating and spending time with family and friends.

Soraya joins the Ballance team having spent the previous three years working for a large rural merchant company. Prior to that she had a long tenure working in Rural Insurance, based in the South Waikato / King Country area. She is passionate about agriculture and supporting her customers to achieve their farming goals.

Matthew joined the South Waikato team in April 2023, as the Nutrient Specialist for the Putaruru / Tokoroa.

Matthew’s interest in the agriculture sector was sparked at a young age, growing up in a family who was heavily involved in and around New Zealand’s primary industries. He fuelled this interest further by completing a Bachelor of AgriCommerce at Massey University, majoring in International Agribusiness. During his studies he was fortunate to secure a scholarship to travel to South America where he investigated both agricultural and horticultural systems. This enhanced his passion for efficient and sustainable farming methods while also helping farmers achieve their business goals.

Russell brings a wealth of knowledge gained through his time on the family farm as well as previous roles he has held, with much of his career spent managing stock and a range of sheep and beef farms. In addition to this he holds a Diploma in Sheep and Beef Production Management and owns a small farm in Ashley Clinton which he calls home. Russell has a passion for providing farmers the tools to assist them to farm sustainably and profitably not only for their generation, but for generations to come.

Jess Guy is the Nutrient Specialist for the Upper Manawatu/Upper Rangitikei. She has been with Ballance since January 2022, originally joining as part of the intern programme. Jess further honed her skills in a secondment position managing a portfolio in the Taranaki and King Country prior to this role in the Western Lower North Island team. Born and bred in Taihape and raised on a sheep and beef farm in Tolaga Bay, her passion for the industry has been evident since day one leading into studying a Bachelor of Commerce Agriculture at Lincoln University. Jess loves getting stuck in on the farm and going hunting with friends and family. She also loves community sport, playing both hockey and netball for Hunterville currently and more sports to come. She is looking forward to crossing paths with everyone in her area.

Meg Fleury joined Ballance in May 2023 as the Nutrient Specialist for North/Coastal Taranaki. She grew up in the small rural town of Ohakune, before heading south to Lincoln University where she studied a Bachelor of Environment and Society majoring in Environmental Management, followed by a Post Graduate Certificate in Applied Science. Having a number of friends and family in the rural community, Meg enjoys building long-term relationships with a wide variety of people and is passionate about helping clients achieve their goals. Outside of work Meg enjoys spending time with family and friends, skiing and getting out trying new things.

Emily joined the Farm Sustainability Services in June 2023, based predominantly in Manawahe, Bay of Plenty. She gained a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from Massey University in 2022, covering all aspects of farm management including areas of farm production systems, soil fertility, ruminant animal nutrition, animal production and sustainability for Ag and Hort. Outside of work Emily and her partner contract milk 220 cows on a twice a day, system 4 farm. Emily is passionate about the dairy sector and is driven by the ability to work face to face, hands on with farmers where she can personally understand the highs and lows of the farming sector, sharing similar experiences and knowledge with farmers.

Alice came onboard with Ballance as the Nutrient Specialist for the Timaru-Oamaru region in October 2023. Growing up on her family's intensive arable cropping farm in Mid-Canterbury, Alice went on to complete a Bachelor of AgriScience with honours at Massey University in 2014. She has since worked in a variety of roles including rural insurance, dairy nutrition and livestock procurement that allowed her to combine her passion of agriculture and supporting farmers in their farming operations throughout the lower South Island. Alice moved to her partner's sheep and beef farm in Weston in 2018 and has since bred two young kids who enjoy the farm life greatly. In her spare time, she enjoys triathlons, particular the half ironman distance, which means lots of cycling and running as well as being a volunteer firefighter in the Weston Brigade. Alice is passionate about partnering with farmers to drive performance and profitability on farm effectively and efficiently.

Kelvin Wickham is a proven co-operative leader with over 34 years at Fonterra creating value for farmer shareholders. Kelvin’s extensive career at Fonterra culminated in him being based in Amsterdam leading all business activities across Africa, Middle East, Europe, North Asia, and the Americas, along with global oversight of the Active Living Functional Nutritional Unit and the NZMP brand. Prior to that he was responsible for the business unit NZMP, the biggest dairy ingredients selling and marketing entity in the world.

He has lived in Shanghai where he led Fonterra’s Greater China business across the full value chain from farms to brands. In an earlier Supplier and External Relations role he worked closely with farmer shareholders, with responsibility for Fonterra’s farmer facing teams as well as engaging with key New Zealand government and external stakeholders. As a member of Fonterra's management team reporting directly to the CEO, Kelvin has demonstrated his ability to be a forward-thinking and customer-focused leader. He has extensive experience in the international market, developing diverse teams with a commitment to delivering high-quality solutions.

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Jared Collie has over ten years’ experience in governance as well as ten years’ experience in the rural and corporate banking sectors, including three years as a BNZ managing partner. He and his wife Prue operate a 1,400 hectare sheep, cattle and dairy farm in Central Southland with their three boys. Jared is also an independent advisor for Arrow Dairy Ltd, a director of Benmore Downs Ltd, chairman of Platinum Dairies Ltd, and a facilitator for the Takitimu Discussion Group. He is also Deputy Chair of Salvation Army’s Jeff Farm, which trains cadets in practical farming skills.

Michael is the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist covering Central / South Taranaki.

Michael returned to Ballance in April 2024, after spending time overseas. He originally joined Ballance in June 2021 as the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist for this region, before embarking on his travels in 2023.

He grew up on and still maintains family ownership of an 800-acre sheep and beef farm in Piopio, equipping him with extensive practical experience to bring to the role. He also holds a Bachelor of Agri Commerce, with a major in International Agribusiness.

Michael has spent time in varied roles within the industry, including a livestock representative and a Grain Merchant looking after both international and domestic procurement.

His passion for the agricultural sector has been a driving force in helping him understand farmers needs and enjoys helping them achieve the best possible performance from their business.

Grace is a Horticultural & Arable Specialist for the Bay of Plenty.

Graces comes from a kiwifruit orchardist family in Te Puke and started her journey with Ballance back in June 2023. She was responsible for helping smaller growers across the country as the Horticultural Outbound Sales Specialist, writing fertiliser plans and offering support over the phone.

In April 2024, Grace stepped up to focus on serving larger growers in the Bay of Plenty, taking on the role of Horticultural Specialist.

Grace studied a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Plant Biology at The University of Auckland, diving into the world of genetics and selective breeding for kiwifruit, avocados, and tomatoes. Later, she pursued an Honours degree in Green Chemistry, with a focus on sustainable hydrogen synthesis.

Driven by her family ties and her love for horticulture, she is passionate about supporting growers in reaching their goals while also promoting on-orchard sustainability. Grace finds joy in assisting others while sharing a laugh along the way.

Outside of work, Grace is a keen traveller and enjoys staying active at the gym and going out on walks.

Gretchen took up the role of Core Nutrient Specialist role in Coastal South Canterbury in March 2018, and has since taken up the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist South Ashburton in January 2022.

A South Canterbury local, Gretchen hails from an arable and dairy support farm - which is where her interest in agriculture first took hold. This led her to Lincoln University, where she completed a Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture).

She also has practical experience working on arable, sheep and beef and dairy farms, and she credits this with giving her a broad understanding of how differing farm systems work and building her knowledge base.

Gretchen enjoys working in the agricultural industry, in particular connecting with farmers to both grow her knowledge and help them overcome any challenges they may be facing.

Outside of work, she still likes getting her hands dirty helping on the farm, as well as hiking and water sports in summer.

Ali joined the Ballance team in April 2024 as the Key Accounts Nutrients Specialist for the Oamaru Region.

Growing up on the East Coast of the USA, born to a Kiwi Father and American Mum, Ali and her whānau shifted to New Zealand in 2001 where they purchased a small farm in Nelson. She fell in love with the rural lifestyle and community, deciding to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Massey University, double Majoring in Agribusiness and Equine Science. Upon completion of her degree, she worked as a Fertiliser Consultant for Fertilizer New Zealand, before moving with her partner to The Margaret River region of Western Australia in 2010. In 2021 they returned to New Zealand with their two children, settling in Windsor where they keep horses, Valais Blacknose Sheep and help on her father-in-law's Ngapara Beef farm. Ali then worked for the Ministry of Social Development, a role which assisted her in growing a strong network in the Waitaki.

Being surrounded by farmland and entrenched in a close-knit farming community keeps Ali invigorated to strive for a sustainable farming future. Performance and profitability are top of mind, whilst always considering the environment and her clients' long-term goals and aspirations for their business.

Kevin is the Key Accounts Nutrient Specialist for the Central Plateau, stepping in to the role in August 2024.

Born into a family with its roots in farming, it was inevitable that Kevin would work in the agricultural sector. He has held a number of roles from milking assistant and working on dairy farms to rural earthmoving, sales representative for Hynds Pipe Systems and even a period as a Ballance Nutrient Specialist in the Rotorua area.

Kevin then took some time away from Ballance, splitting his time between working as an independent Farm Sustainability Advisor and managing the day-to-day operations of a family-based rural earthmoving contracting business. He returned to the Ballance fold in May 2019 with a secondment in our Key Accounts team and when that finished in early 2020, he moved in to a position with Farm Sustainability Services.

Through all of this, Kevin has developed a deep understanding of both the challenges the farming community faces, and the opportunities to build on what they are already doing. He brings a wealth of experience and a passion for farming and assisting NZ farmers to achieve their goals.

When he is not working, Kevin’s focus is on spending time with his family and friends. He is also a keen mountain biker who loves the local Rotorua trails but also enjoys traveling around the country exploring new places to ride.

Joanne oversees our external relations strategy, internal and external communications and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) activities. She has extensive experience in the primary sector and expertise operating in a co-operative environment. Jo was previously Chief Communications & Brand Officer at Southern Cross, where she led the Group Communications & Brand team, supporting all Southern Cross businesses and their subsidiaries

Prior to Southern Cross, Jo spent time at Frucor Beverages and Fonterra. At Fonterra she was responsible for global communications and brand strategy to build awareness and preference for New Zealand Milk Products (NZMP) .

In her role at Ballance, Jo’s responsibilities include reputation management, corporate communications, media relations, sustainability, government and stakeholder.

Anneke joined the East Coast team in September 2024, taking on the core Nutrient Specialist role in Hawkes Bay.

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She brings knowledge gained from her Bachelor of Science, working on sheep and beef farms, as well as previous roles working at ARL, primary ITO and Landcorp.

Anneke loves to help farmers and growers build a better future for themselves and the generations to come by farming profitably and sustainably, using tools to assist in making informed decisions.

When not working, she loves to spend time with her family and friends camping, tramping fishing, horse riding and any other sport.

Clement is a qualified Chartered Accountant and a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors. He is currently Finance Director for Woolworths New Zealand, the country’s largest supermarket retailer and a subsidiary of ASX listed Woolworths Group. Prior to that he was the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer for NZX listed seafood company Sanford. Clement brings a wealth of experience gained in financial, commercial and operational positions across publicly listed and privately owned manufacturing, FMCG and forestry businesses. Clement has held a number of board positions previously, most notably as Chair of the Finance and Commercial Committee for the Selwyn Foundation, which operated seven retirement villages and employed 1200 people.

Joining Ballance in October 2024, I bring a strong passion in agriculture, having earned a Diploma from Lincoln University in 2022. My education includes specialized courses in Livestock Behaviour and Animal Health through Primary ITO, as well as another course on the New Zealand Primary Sector.

Growing up on a dairy farm west of Whangarei created a deep passion for farming, which I continue to pursue today on my family’s beef block in Ruatangata West. After the dairy farm was sold, I continued to look for opportunities in the dairy industry, ultimately becoming a 2IC and even stepping into management roles at times by the age of 16.

I’m excited to contribute my knowledge and experience to the team at Ballance.

Josefin (known as Josi) joined Ballance in November 2024 after working for Farmlands Whangarei for a couple of years. Born in the countryside of Sweden, growing up on her grandfather’s dairy and pig farm, Josi developed a keen interest in the rural sector and the love of horses early on.

After extensive traveling and working in USA, Israel, Spain & Ireland, Josi moved to New Zealand in 2008, first working in the IT sector and project management. She then transitioned back to her rural roots purchasing a lifestyle property in South Head and began commercial rearing of Brown Shaver chickens for the backyard farmers.

Having inherited poorly maintained lifestyle properties in the past, Josi has learned the hard way the importance of soil maintenance for pasture growth and is looking forward to helping others with their nutrient requirements.

Josi now enjoys the rural lifestyle in Whangarei raising beef cattle, rearing chickens, and spending time with her 3 horses.