Professor Nicola Shadbolt, a prominent academic, farmer and professional director specialising in farm and agribusiness management, has been welcomed to the Environment Protection Authority board.

She is currently a Professor of Farm and Agribusiness Management at Massey University, where she has taught since 1996.

Lisa Tumahai,  a prominent iwi leader and governance professional who served as the first female Kaiwhakahaere (Chairperson) of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu from 2016 to 2023, is another new board member. She is an advocate for Māori development and environmental sustainability and has held significant roles across the public and commercial sectors.

Professor Shadbolt and Lisa Tumahai have been appointed to the board for three-year terms. Lisa’s term is from 4 May 2026 and Nicola starts on 1 July 2026.

Current board member Mary-Anne Macleod has been appointed for one year and will serve as Deputy Chair from 1 July.

Acting Chief Executive Sarah Watson says:

“Lisa and Nicola are very accomplished in their fields and bring with them strong backgrounds in environmental protection, governance, climate expertise, and regulatory practices.

“We look forward to working with them to help further protect Aotearoa New Zealand’s environment while supporting economic development.”

Sarah acknowledged the work of outgoing Deputy Chair Paul Connell, who has been on the EPA Board since 2021 and chaired the EPA’s audit and risk committee before then.

“I would like to thank Paul for his efforts and contributions to the EPA Board over his tenure. He has had a positive impact on our organisation and the wider environment through his dedication to strong governance.”

The EPA Board sets out the authority’s direction and provides strategic oversight.

The Minister for the Environment appoints Board members.

 Source: Environmental Protection Authority