Jonathan made the switch to the Horticulture team in July 2018, taking up the Horticulture & Arable Specialist Hawkes Bay role. Prior to this he had been the Nutrient Specialist for Waipukurau, originally joining Ballance in October 2016. 

After growing up on a sheep and beef farm in Central Hawkes Bay, he travelled to Australia, gaining work on cattle station in the Northern Territory. 

On his return to New Zealand, he spent time working on the family farm before completing a Diesel apprenticeship. Jonathan then spent several years tending the machinery needs of the Hawkes Bay and East Coast farmers. 

His desire to be involved in the agricultural sector saw a change from Diesel machines to working for a large-scale horticulture group in Hastings. When the chance to work in his home region arose, it was an opportunity he had to take. 

Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his wife and two girls.

Arnold Hulley better known as “Dusty” joined Ballance in March 2011 as a Nutrient Specialist for the Hauraki-Coromandel region. After three years’ service, he then moved to a role with Farm Source where he broadened his knowledge base in the farming industry. He returned to Ballance Agri-Nutrients in October 2015.

Dusty grew up in the farming sector and then went on to managing large-scale agriculture farms, growing numerous different crops as well as dry stock and wild game farming.

After moving to New Zealand with his family, they settled in the Hauraki Plains region. There he joined the Dairy sector and gained qualifications in the industry.

His strengths and knowledge come from a practical experience base, with his fields of expertise including dairy production, cropping, and pasture management, as well as a commitment to sustainable farming.

When not working, Dusty enjoys the outdoors, mountain biking, tramping, fishing and tennis as well as being involved with his kid’s sports and activities.

Hamish joined Ballance in July 2017 as the Horticulture & Arable Specialist for Gisborne.

Growing up and working on a Manawatu sheep, bull beef and mixed cropping property with a hydroponic tomato glasshouse encouraged Hamish’s enthusiasm for agriculture and horticulture. After earning an Honours degree in Agricultural Science from Massey, and further study in seed and food technology, he has gained 20 years’ experience in the grain and seed industry.

Working alongside a diverse range of people - both in New Zealand and abroad - from growers and researchers, to material suppliers, merchants, and ultimately processors and food manufacturers is a part of the role that Hamish finds fantastically rewarding.

Amongst many other interests, Hamish enjoys time with family and friends, music in the man cave, gamebird hunting and a spot of gardening.