Antony Heywood to leave Vegetables NZ as new industry body is set up

Vegetables NZ chief executive, Antony Heywood is departing the organisation as a new industry representative body, New Zealand Vegetable Council (NZVeg) is set up. 

‘On behalf of commercial vegetable growers from across the country, I’d like to thank Antony for his contribution to the industry over the past seven years,’ says NZVeg director, John Murphy.

‘Antony has tirelessly advocated for the industry, championing policy settings that support – rather than hinder – vegetable production in New Zealand. He is also a big advocate for increasing vegetable consumption, because of the crucial role that vegetables play in people’s health and wellbeing.

‘What’s more, Antony is very approachable and always put growers’ best interests first.’ 

Antony says that now is a good time for him to say goodbye.

‘I wish the vegetable industry all the best. I’ve directed the operations of Vegetables NZ for the past seven years. I’m proud of what I have achieved and the friends that I have made in the industry. 

‘This is an exciting time for the vegetable industry as it builds on the great work of the past decade, to focus on building scale and unity for the next 10 years.’

Antony’s last day with Vegetables NZ is 30 April 2026.

NZVeg has been set up by Onions NZ, Process Vegetables NZ, TomatoesNZ and Vegetables NZ – with the support of HortNZ – to represent the vegetable industry better. It came into operation on 1 April 2026. 

Contact: NZVeg communications manager, Andrew Bristol on 021 021 62 021