Bobbie has extensive experience in working with SMEs. With an in depth understanding of the importance of strong businesses and strong communities, Bobbie’s core experience is in business development, strategy and governance and works with a wide range of clients; from self-employed to large businesses, from startups to succession planning and eventual exits. Bobbie is passionate about our region and the possibilities that are available, and no more so than now as the whole of New Zealand adjusts to what business will look like over the next 24 months, and how Manawatū can come through this united and in a strong position. Bobbie is also a member of the Institute of Directors and sits on various boards of both profit and non-profit organisations.

Thoughts on Manawatū’s future opportunities and potential:
While I have lived and worked in many different places both in New Zealand and overseas, I have always returned to Manawatū because I believe in what it has to offer for families and businesses. Manawatū is in a unique position with our significant strengths in not only the primary industries, but also in education, research, distribution, government sector and business. There is huge opportunity in Manawatū; uncertainty is always difficult, but this leaves the door wide open for opportunities and a new way of doing business.

Robbie recently returned to Manawatū after living in Auckland for the last 37 years. She brings 10 years of management and governance experience in the early childhood sector, followed by 18 years’ experience in international education. Robbie has served on boards in both of these sectors and continues to work in the export education industry.

Thoughts on Manawatū’s future opportunities and potential:
I am excited to be living back in Manawatū and look forward to contributing to the region in my role with CEDA. I see huge potential for the region in a range of industries, and particularly education. Our central location offers many opportunities for economic growth and we are well placed to move in new directions.

Margy brings over 25 years working in senior finance roles in mainly the corporate sector, both for national and multinational organisation. She has experience in fast moving consumer goods, manufacturing (textile, food, packaging, and plastics), together with importing and distribution and logistics sectors. She brings strong corporate governance experience, coupled with a background in business improvement, market expansion and acquisitions. Having built her whole career solely within the Manawatū and surrounding areas, Margy is a strong advocate for the Manawatū region. Margy is a Chartered Accountant and is also a chartered member of the Institute of Directors.

Thoughts on Manawatū’s future opportunities and potential: Manawatū provides an array of opportunities for a wide range of sectors in both established and emerging industries, and for both domestic and international investors. The region, being centrally located, has a geographical advantage for distributors and is rapidly becoming an important central distribution and logistics hub. Other core sectors of primary industry, research and innovation, education, defence, and health provide established platforms for continued growth. Further development of its infrastructure and expansion of the labour market will be key elements needed for the region to unlock its full potential.

David has spent the last 15 years working as an economist in New Zealand, including as Chief Economist at Auckland Council for 4.5 years, at Westpac and PwC. He has worked with several economic development agencies in his career, and is excited about bringing his economics mindset to bear on achieving the development aspirations of the region. David is particularly passionate about evidence-based decision-making, and how we prioritise what we do in a resource-constrained world to maximise wellbeing for our people.

Prior to his economics career, David spent 7 years working in Asia. He has a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management from Massey University, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Mandarin, and a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Psychology.

Thoughts on Manawatū’s future opportunities and potential: Manawatū is ideally located at the cross-roads of several major population centres, which gives it a natural advantage in logistics and distribution. But with major tertiary institutions located here too, there are huge opportunities to develop world-leading education and employment opportunities in advanced services and technology.

Paul’s experience is a unique combination of being an international recovery and infrastructure expert together with deep banking experience. Paul has focused on infrastructure development during his 30-year career. He has provided corporate advice and led major infrastructure teams that have undertaken the development of business cases, policy settings, project procurement, funding and financing, contract design and negotiations. He has extensive Australasian PPP experience. In recent years, he has been deeply involved in recovery and development work following category five cyclones and hurricanes in Fiji and the British Virgin Islands.

He is an experienced leader in both a civilian and military setting, including being a retired Colonel in the New Zealand Army.

Thoughts on Manawatū’s future opportunities and potential: The Manawatū region is beautiful, brimming with opportunity and bristling with talent, which is why I choose to work and play in this region.

With a career spanning 38 years with the Ministry of Social Development, Katie wants to change her focus to growing and developing our region by utilising her skills, experience and connections to make this happen.

Katie is passionate about our region and in the last 7 years of her career held the position of Regional Commissioner for Social Development where her teams’ supported individuals, families, and the community to be safe strong and independent. She sees employment as a circuit breaker and is an essential element to enhance sustainable social development, social cohesion, and ultimately economic growth. She is experienced in public sector leadership, relationship management and governance and is a member of the Institute of Directors.

Thoughts on Manawatu future opportunities and potential:
Palmerston North has always been home to me, and I consider the region to be a great place to live, work and play! The access we have to recreational facilities is superb, our central location provides so many opportunities particularly with logistics and distribution, while the economy is supported with the diversity of our labour market with a strong base being from agriculture and the substantial public sector employment. The sectors of food and technology hold many new opportunities for the Manawatu, and I am excited about my role with CEDA and continuing to contribute to our region’s growth and success.

Jerry and his whānau moved to Manawatū from Canterbury in 2016 and it wasn’t long before Palmerston North became ‘home’.

Jerry has significant skills in strategic thinking and converting strategies into action and strong stakeholder relations skills having worked in senior leadership in the tertiary sector for over 15 years. With a genuine passion for the region Jerry is a firm believer in both Manawatū’s lifestyle and exceptional business economy. As a former scientist, Jerry has a passion for data and insights, and how this can inform decision-making.

Eat – It’s a split decision between The Strong Room and The Fat Farmer
Drink – G&T in a tall glass (after work of course!)
Do – Coaching the kids at sport across the region and walking the dog around the Hokowhitu Lagoon
Try – The Markets around the region – The Feilding Farmers’ Market and the Hokowhitu Village Farmers’ Market are a must-do weekend activity!

Mai i Waitapu ki Rangataua mai i Mīria-te-kakara ki Kukutauaki’

Ko te rohe pōtae o Ngāti Raukawa

Ko Tararua ngā pae maunga
Ko Manawatū te awa
Ko Ngāti Raukawa te iwi
Ko Ngāti Takihiku me Ngāti Whakatere ngā hapū
Ko Kereru me Poutu ngā marae
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Hoturoa te tangata
Ko Tainui Woodmass ahau

Born and bred in the Horowhenua from the mighty town of Shannon. I joined the military at the age of 18 to where I spent the next 20 years fine tuning my skills and experience to become a better me, a career I thoroughly enjoyed and for which offered multiple opportunities to grow in life through resilience and comradeship. The opportunity to pursue a career through CEDA in the Māori relationship role was something I could not turn down. A role engaging and building the relationship between Māori and a CCO (council controlled organisation) was a role that felt well suited to my personality. I am looking forward to the challenges that may lie ahead.

Tihei Mauriora!

Eat – Café Jacko’s
Drink – Steiny Classic
Do – Spending time with whānau and friends making memories
Try – Using Te Reo Māori every day

Jacqui is Palmerston North born and bred. With over 20 years’ experience in finance, administration and office management, Jacqui is responsible for CEDA’s financial reporting, legal compliance, human resources and office management. Jacqui loves that Manawatū is a place where you can have both a successful career and raise a family.

Eat – Hana Mizu Ki (sizzling prawns)
Drink – LOCAL Cafe (long black with runny cream)
Do – Sunday brunch at one of our amazing cafes
Try – Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge walk

Having lived overseas (Australia, UK and Singapore) for a number of years, Greg has recently returned ‘home’ to Manawatū to be closer to family, friends, and the fresh NZ air! His background is in Procurement, Marketing and Project Management having worked in some of the world’s largest consumer goods companies. He is passionate about making a difference in his work and is looking forward to adding value to the Manawatū region.

Greg has a young family and loves all the great things Manawatū has to offer families, especially if it keeps the kids happy!

Eat – Many to choose from but, Beyond Coffee for weekend breakie (and the well-set up kids play area) or a great curry at 4 Flames.
Drink – Anywhere that serves a delicious pint of Guinness!
Do – Cycling along the Manawatū River starting at He Ara Kotahi and finishing with a coffee.
Try – The many walks in our great outdoors.

Having lived in Manawatū for 15 years after relocating from Auckland, Janet firmly classes herself as a true Manawatū local, telling anyone who’ll listen about the fantastic lifestyle opportunities and benefits here. With a background in tourism, events, project management, content and marketing, Janet is passionate about the work she does in chasing opportunities and creating connections to build on the regions strengths and raise the profile of the region.

Eat – Boho Cafe for brunch
Drink – Ebony Coffee for a morning fix
Do – Exploring Himatangi Beach with the family and dog, kayak fishing or enjoying a west coast sunset with fish and chips.
Try – Rangiwahia Scenic Reserve for a big dose of nature, lush native forest and epic scenery and views topped off with a decent leg stretch! An ancient stand of native bush in northern Manawatū, this is a hidden gem.

Peter was born and educated in Manawatū. His winter weekends are kept busy supporting local rugby and summers are spent at local swimming holes and beaches. Peter has an interest in technology and how it can make for positive changes in the region. He works closely with Massey University to connect regional businesses with cutting edge technology to help their growth aspirations. The best part of his job is working with local tech start-ups to help turn their new and innovative ideas into commercial reality.

Eat – Aberdeen on Broadway
Drink – Brew Union
Do – Canoe the Whanganui River from source to sea
Try – Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge Walk

Originally from Whanganui, I have recently returned to the Manawatū area after six years away in order to be close to family and friends. In my free time I love to explore the dog friendly parks and walks, taking in the beautiful Manawatū river.

Prior to joining the team here at CEDA, I was a Business Manager at the Bank of New Zealand for five years where I developed a passion for helping and supporting small businesses achieve their goals. I am hoping to take that expertise, along with my degree in Strategic Management to help local businesses grow.

Eat – Dinner out at Little Savanna
Drink – Anywhere that serves a nice Scotch, neat
Do – Taking my Golden Retriever, Harlow, for a walk around the Ashhurst Domain
Try – Experience walking through Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge

Julia moved to Manawatū 35 years ago and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else, praising it as a great place to live, bring up a family and establish a business. Julia is a very sociable and enthusiastic person who enjoys working with the business community to support them to grow in the Manawatū region.

Eat – Sample many of the Manawatū eateries – especially those using fresh local produce
Drink – Alexander’s Patisserie has the best coffee and the Almond Croissants are great!
Do – Walk along the Manawatū River Pathway from Albert Street to Fitzherbert Avenue
Try – Hokowhitu Village Farmers’ Market

Our Marketing Senior, Jordyn comes from friendly Feilding. Having spent the last few years travelling around the world and working in the UK and Melbourne, she has landed back home to enjoy Manawatū’s relaxed lifestyle and reconnect with friends and whānau. Jordyn’s role is focused on planning and implementing marketing strategies for CEDA and raising the profile of the city and region. She especially enjoys sharing all the wonderful things Manawatū has to offer, and is a passionate advocate for the region. You can catch her in the weekends brunching and lunching at the many delicious eateries in Palmy and Feilding, browsing local markets, drinking coffee, or sharing a platter with friends.

Eat – Haru Japanese Restaurant – highly recommend the Haru dinner set
Drink – Mouthwater coffee cart on Tremaine Ave and Main St is my fave!
Do – A day out at the Awapuni Races
Try – Head to Alexandre Patisserie and grab one of their famous croissants – you can thank me later!

As a Manawatū resident for 25 years, Katrina has certainly tried and tested the region and found it suits her to a tee. Having lived rurally for most of her life and with a passion for the outdoors, she believes that taking the time to get lost is key to uncovering the true nature of the Manawatū. With a background in marketing and content creation she’s determined to get the word out to as many people as possible.

Eat – Get out of the city and lunch at The Herb Farm & Café, they’re dog friendly so pick an outdoor table and bring your furry friend.
Drink – Brew Union has it all with 21 craft beers on tap and an astounding gin collection – it’s a G&T for me.
Do – Spend a slow morning shopping and brunching on George Street. Bruce McKenzie Booksellers is a particular favourite!
Try – Stretch your legs and explore the stunning and sensory Tē Apiti – Manawatū Gorge Walk.

Ko Tararua Tōku Maunga
Ko Manawatū Tōku Awa
Nō Waikato ahau
Ko West Tōku Whānau
Ko Tayla Tōku ingoa

Prior to my role with CEDA, I was studying design innovation and digital marketing at Victoria University of Wellington. Alongside my studies I was also bartending in hospitality. My favourite thing about the region so far has been the people, everyone is so lovely, accepting, and welcoming and it has become my home.

Eat – Sushi Workshop on the square for lunch
Drink – Cheeky cocktail at Brew Union
Do – Spending time with friends and family, Bowlarama is such a fun place
Try – The Herb Farm for their natural skincare products

Helen is Palmerston North born, grew up in Ashhurst, and now lives in Levin. She has over thirty years of experience in office management and administration. Helen enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and she loves rugby, darts and Super V8 motor racing. She loves to explore the greater region in summer with weekend drives and picnics. Winter weekends are spent on Mt Ruapehu at her club’s lodge on Whakapapa.

Eat – Ginger Bird Café in Colyton – delectable yummy treats galore!
Drink – The Coffee Club’s hot and iced chocolates 
Do – Travel a road you haven’t travelled before, our region is stunningly beautiful, and you never know what you will find around the corner
Try – Any of the Manawatū must do walks. They are all fabulous!

Ko Taranaki te maunga
Ko Aotea te waka
Ko Tanga’oe te awa
Ko Ngāti Ruanui me Ngārua’ine me Ngāti Toarangatira ki Porirua me Rarotonga ngā iwi
Ko Taiporo’enui, me Oeo me Takapuwa’ia me Ngatangiia ngā marae
Ko ‘amua me ‘apōtiki ngā ‘apu
Ko Ana Tupangaia tōku ingoa

Born in Ngāmotu (New Plymouth), raised in Pōneke (Wellington) and now in Papaioea (Palmerston North). I have spent the last few years working around the capital city in various Admin/EA/Sales roles. After much consideration about where my next steps were heading, I took the leap and signed up with Massey University in December 2022. This decision is what has brought me to Papaioea, to pursue a Bachelor of Agri-business Majoring in Rural Land Valuation. As a proud resident of the Cook Islands I hope to take the next 3 years of teachings back to my people and eventually live my retirement out on the tropical beaches of Rarotonga!

Eat – Definitely Cafe Jacko’s! Knead Bakery for Chocolate Eclairs though!
Drink – Anything Gin – preferably a Tanqueray if we’re getting specific.
Do – Walk the Manawatū awa… The newly developed kids forest park is great fun for big kids too lol!
Try – Hiring an electric scooter and exploring Papaioea – it’s the best way to get around.

Born and raised in Palmerston North, Sheree has a deep connection to the region. With a background in business consulting and recruitment Sheree understands that fostering connections with people is paramount for facilitating growth in all aspects of business and life.

As a Business Growth Advisor, Sheree interacts with people across various sectors of the region’s business community. She provides connections and support to help them navigate challenges, identify strengths, and strive towards the shared objective of business growth.

In her free time, Sheree enjoys exploring the art scene and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Eat – Little Savanna
Drink – Margaritas
Do – Live shows, concerts – all the arts
Try – Cycle Tracks

Ko Hikurangi te Maunga
Ko Waiapu te Awa
Ko te whanau a Iritekura, te whanau o Rakairoa te Aitanga a Mate nga Hapu
Ko Ngati Porou te Iwi
Ko Carol Hayward ahau

Carol is based in Whanganui, and has always enjoyed Palmerston North with the many activities and events that are hosted here. Carol has vast experience across the Hairdressing industry, owns her well-established business, and has had many opportunities working amongst various business organisations across the motu. She is very passionate about growth, development, and supporting business, with the people in business.
It’s a pleasure, and an honour, to visit people in the place where they spend a lot of time – at the worksite! As a Business Growth Advisor, Carol will identify many aspects of the business including strengths and challenges, market opportunities, organisation structure, training and development requirements, and what makes the business unique.

Carol spends her free time with her whanau, especially her mokopuna, which involves lots of fun, laughter, and creating memories.

Eat: Portofino
Drink: Jules Taylor Sauvigon and a delicious Craggy Range Rosē as a summer treat.
Do: Anything that my mokos want to do – excluding running.
Try: As many experiences as this region has to offer, especially with the whanau.

Michelle relocated to Palmerston North 16 years ago after more than a decade living across the globe in Auckland, Port Douglas, Melbourne and the UK. Along with her husband and three kids, she’s well and truly established as a Manawatū local, and now calls Palmy ‘home’.  With a background in project management, events and business development, Michelle’s passionate about personal connections and making a difference in the work that she does. Her role at CEDA is focussed on planning and implementing strategies to support the visitor sector to sustainably grow, working with businesses and stakeholders across the region to future proof  and enhance our visitor economy.

Eat: There’s so many options around Manawatū! Current favourites are the Espetada with Argentinian Chimichurri at Little Savanna or the Haloumi Lunch Bowl at Local Eatery.

Drink: An Americano from fresh, locally roasted beans at Ebony Coffee, or a classic frozen Margarita at Libre!

Do: I’m loving getting around many of the local sports grounds and venues to watch my kids play their various sports, supporting our local sports teams at their home games, and getting out to the beach or riding our awesome cycling trails as often as possible. We’re really spoilt for choice here!

Try: World-class theatre shows, live concerts and festivals, exhibitions, markets, community and sporting events, a huge range of eateries and bars, as well as a plethora of natural gems – we have so many options to get involved in and enjoy around our region, I love it all! There’s always something to do and new things to discover here – I’d encourage anyone, no matter how long you’ve lived here, to explore your own backyard and act like a visitor for a weekend, you’ll be amazed at what you discover.

Felicia’s grandparents migrated from Fiji to New Zealand in 1965. They chose Palmerston North as their initial home base and have remained ever since! Felicia now calls Feilding home, where she has lived for the past four years with her husband, Daniel and their cat Mia. Felicia has spent the last seven years working in the marketing sector helping businesses grow through both print and digital marketing activations. Coming to CEDA with a Bachelor of Business in Economics and Communications, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management, she finally feels like she is in a role that is fully aligned with not only her expertise, but also her passions too. She relishes her role in raising the profile of our beautiful Manawatū region in a fun and easy-to-understand way.

EAT – I’m a big foodie, so it’s hard to pick one! I’d have to go with anything on the menu at Libre, the perfect place for Mexican food lovers!

DRINK – Brew Union has the BEST cocktails – my favs are a Classic Rosebud or a Salted Caramel Espresso Martini.

DO – Learn a new language. There are a tonne of in-person learning opportunities for a range of languages in our region. I’ve been studying Spanish for two years now.

TRY – A leisurely stroll through Awahuri Forest – Kitchener Park for some fresh air and exercise.