Mattes Groenedijk

Mattes says connecting with rural professionals, experts and organisations really helps him hone his skills to get the best outcomes for farmers.

“One person can never know everything, but you might meet or know someone that does. So, in my role as a key liaison person between DairyNZ and farmers in my area, being well-connected within the region is important.

“Being a regional team area manager is a unique role, in that the ultimate aim is purely about providing value to individual farmers and the sector as a whole. I also enjoy getting involved in putting on what I call ‘unmissable’ events – and supporting farmer-focused events others provide in my area.”

Mattes is also aware that farming has become increasingly complex over time, creating more need for the kind of support DairyNZ’s regional team members can give them.

“Farmers are having to develop more and more specialised skills over a broader range of aspects. We do our best to provide them with the tools and resources that will help them do that. If we don’t have direct access to the information farmers need, we’ll put them in touch with someone who does. So it’s always worth asking us first and we’ll make it happen.”

Outside of work, Mattes loves doing anything that involves mountains or rivers, and he’s a staunch Waikato Chiefs rugby supporter. “They’ll always be a superior team to Canterbury’s Crusaders.”

• Find out more about DairyNZ’s other Upper South Island regional team members.
• Check out our nationwide regional teams.