Central’s women in horticulture will benefit from $300,000 in government funding to boost career advancement and networking opportunities, announced by Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg last week.

Nicola, who is Minister for Women and Associate Minister of Agriculture, said the Government was empowering women in the horticulture industry by funding an initiative to support networking and career progression.

“The United Fresh Women in Horticulture (Women in Horticulture - WIH) initiative will deliver workshops and professional development sessions enabling women to upskill and reach their full potential," she said.

“It also provides the sector an opportunity to positively influence industry attitudes by looking for ways we can encourage women to remain in - and be recognised - within horticulture.”

Nicola said women currently make up around half of the horticulture workforce, but only 20 per cent of leadership roles, which was why initiatives like this were so important.

“Women are underrepresented at leadership level, meaning they are impacted by the gender pay gap and disproportionate retirement earnings compared to men."

The $300,000 is committed over three years to WIH to make New Zealand a world leader for gender equity in horticulture.

“Our government is focused on growing the economy and supporting our primary industries so that Kiwis can get ahead."

Alexandra’s Whitney Conder has been in Wellington as a part of Kellogg rural leadership programme and met with Nicola.

Whitney Conder. PHOTO: LinkedIn 

She works as a cherry orchard manager and is keen to involve more women in WIH Central Otago as well as at a national level.

“Work is underway on a needs assessment to scope the areas of focus for Women in Horticulture over the next three years. 

“Workshops and networking events will be planned to meet these needs.

“Anyone looking to join Women in Horticulture New Zealand should visit the page, put in their details, or follow local and regional groups on Facebook or Instagram.”