Horticultural industry leader Dr Stuart Davis, who died last week, is being remembered as a man who could turn science and practical on-farm experience into real-world improvements for growers.
Stuart began his career in the Wattie’s group, then moved to LeaderBrand in Gisborne, before returning home to Pukekohe as LeaderBrand’s Sustainability Manager.
He championed the industry and served as a director of Vegetables NZ for more than 10 years and chaired the Vegetable Research & Innovation Board, helping co-ordinate research investment across many vegetable product groups and playing a key role in shaping “A Lighter Touch”.
Richard McPhail, LeaderBrand’s CEO, says Stuart’s scientific knowledge, his environmental drive, and commercial pragmatism were a winning formula.
“There are few leaders who have had the impact and have driven as much change for our industry as Stuart; his fingerprints will last for decades to come. We have all been extremely fortunate to have had his wise counsel.”
“There is nothing Stuart didn’t know about growing vegetables. His knowledge and dedication have made the industry a better place. In particular, his work in Integrated Pest Management. This piece of work is highly respected and is now used throughout the industry.
“He had a dogged determination to make the industry more productive and better for the environment. He often did the work that others didn’t want to do, but he knew that the long-term effects would outlive us all.
“Stuart gave us the momentum and the tools to change farming systems towards more sustainable practices without losing economic benefits.”
Stuart worked with LeaderBrand for more than 25 years,
He managed technical and operational areas at LeaderBrand Gisborne before moving to the Pukekohe farm to oversee the company’s environmental projects . He managed the Regenerative Farming Project, riparian planting, biodiversity project, emissions, nitrogen, and water efficiency projects.
Last year, Stuart was awarded The Bledisloe Cup by Horticulture New Zealand recognising his contributions to the horticulture industry in New Zealand. This year, he was awarded Horticulture New Zealand Life Membership.
Vegetables New Zealand board chair John Murphy said Stuart will be remembered as a highly influential figure in New Zealand’s vegetable sector for more than 35 years, known for consistently turning science and practical on-farm experience into real-world improvements for growers and the environment.
In particular, Stuart was an avid champion of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), promoting systems that protect crops while reducing reliance on broad-spectrum controls and supporting long-term environmental outcomes.
Horticulture New Zealand board chair Bernadine Guilleux said Davis’ contribution to the industry has been immense.
Sources: Farmers Weekly and Fresh Plaza
