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Our Team

Trusted relationships

It’s hard to find people who reflect our clients’ values.  Building trust takes time.  So does building a great team.  

All our agribusiness advisors are members of the New Zealand Institute of Rural Professionals (IRPNZ). To become a member each advisor must hold minimum academic qualifications, have been employed as a Primary Industry Professional for three continuous years and completed an ethics module. Applications also have to be supported by referees and accepted by the IRPNZ Board.

Directors Lee Matheson, Duncan Walker, Carla Muller and John Perrin have achieved the prestigious status of becoming Registered Members along with Principal Consultant, Trudy Laan. To achieve this status they have been identified by their professional peers and clients as having a level of expertise and a high standard of delivery in the core competencies. To achieve this status they have to provide examples of work for review by peers, provide referees (including clients) and be accepted by an interview panel. As Registered Members they are also held to a high standard around professional development and are required to complete set amounts of this every year.

Our Board

Lee 2022 website

Lee Matheson

MANAGING DIRECTOR
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
Duncan Walker - Perrin Ag Consultants Partner

Duncan Walker

DIRECTOR
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
John Perrin - Chairman of Perrin Ag Consultants Ltd

John Perrin

CHAIRMAN
Julie Rickman - Perrin Ag Consultants

Julie Rickman

Independent Director
Carla Muller - Senior Consultant at Perrin Ag

Carla Muller

DIRECTOR
Principal CONSULTANT

Advisory Team

Peter Keeling - Senior Consultant at Perrin Ag

Peter Keeling

Principal Consultant
Alastair MacCormick - Senior Consultant at Perrin Ag

Alastair MacCormick

Principal Consultant
Trudy Laan - Partner at Perrin Ag Cunsultants

Trudy Laan

PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
Rachael Mitchell - Perrin Ag Consultants

Rachael Mitchell

SENIOR CONSULTANT
Daniel Payton Perrin Ag Consultants

Daniel Payton

Senior CONSULTANT
Rachel Durie - Senior Consultant

Rachel Durie

Senior CONSULTANT
Braydon Schroder - Consultant at Perrin Ag

Braydon Schroder

Senior Consultant
Roz Hensman - Senior Consultant, Perrin Ag

Roz Hensman

SENIOR CONSULTANT
Vance Fulton - Senior Consultant Perrin Ag Consultants

Vance Fulton

SENIOR CONSULTANT
Rob Brazendale - Senior Consultant Perrin Ag

Rob Brazendale

SENIOR CONSULTANT
Dwayne Cowin - Senior Consultant Perrin Ag Consultants

Dwayne Cowin

SENIOR CONSULTANT
Sam bio photo

Sam Gray

CONSULTANT
Joel Hensman, Senior Consultant

Joel Hensman

SENIOR CONSULTANT
courtney-stone-consultant-perrin-ag

Courtney Stone

Senior CONSULTANT
Perrin Ag Adviser Vicky Ferris Agribusiness Consultant Nz

Vicky Ferris

Consultant

Rhys Dawson

Consultant

Katherine Martin

Consultant
Alyssa Brazendale Perrin Ag Consultant Agrib Usiness

Alyssa Brazendale

Consultant

Business Services Team

Mike

Michael Matthews

Business Manager
Gayle Newman - Perrin Ag

Gayle Newman

Finance and Client Services Manager
Chaylee Thomson Executive Assistant

Chaylee Thomson

Executive Assistant

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Lee Matheson

Managing Director
Principal Consultant

BApplSc (Hons), FIRPNZ (Reg), ASNM

Lee came to agribusiness consultancy via the unlikely pathway of a suburban Wellington upbringing, an Honours degree in plant science and a six-year career in the financial markets. In his role as the firm’s MD, Lee doesn’t get out on-farms as much as he used to but makes the most of it when he does. While having swapped the paddock for the boardroom, Lee continues to provide advice in the areas of farm business strategy, farm system innovation, corporate governance, investment analysis and economic research.

Outside of Perrin Ag, Lee loves to spend his time coaching rugby, watching his three kids play sport and gardening with his wife Haidee.

“I love the challenge of empowering people in our primary sectors and the excitement of seeing clients achieving their aspirations.  If we can encourage farmers to engage with their consumers, take a more active involvement in their supply chains and view their businesses through a wider lens, then I think our industries have a great future.”

Duncan Walker

Director
Principal Consultant

BApplSc, MIRPNZ (Reg), ASNM

Coming from a drystock and dairy farming background, Duncan has always been passionate about growing primary sector businesses. Whether it’s pastoral farming, forestry, horticulture or investments outside the farm gate, sustainably optimising business performance is Duncan’s passion. After graduating from Massey University with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agribusiness, Duncan’s first opportunity to optimise a farm business was by undertaking a dairy conversion. Duncan project managed the conversion and continued to run the dairy farm for a further three years.

Since joining Perrin Ag in 2011 Duncan works with a wide range of clients including those ‘outside the farm gate’. With his strong background in investment analysis, business strategy and project management, Duncan is increasingly working with clients to analyse and integrate horticulture and forestry investments into their farm businesses.

“I enjoy helping clients navigate through the complexities of today’s operational, financial and environmental challenges. Seeing clients achieve their goals is very rewarding”

John Perrin

Director
Principal Consultant

DipVFM, MIRPNZ (Reg)

John has been in business as a Registered Farm Management Consultant and previously as a registered valuer for over 35 years. Most of his experience has centred around land development and farm supervision along with international consultancy in large scale farming operations.

New Zealand farm supervision has largely centred around management and consultancy for Māori authorities and other absentee owners. Since the mid 1990’s John has been predominantly involved in the design and direct management of dairy conversion projects both in New Zealand and overseas, most latterly having had oversight for a new sheep dairy development at Waikino Station. These days John is focussed on his role as Chairman of Perrin Ag.

“In becoming involved in agriculture I was driven to help farmers and their managers maximise production and profitability from their land. Today farming is a very much more complex business and being involved in a rapidly growing advisory practice at a governance level and providing an environment where ambitious advisors and their clients achieve their joint goals and aspirations, gives me great pleasure.”

Julie Rickman

Independent Director

FCA, CAANZ, BMS

Born and bred on a dairy farm in the Waikato, Julie has over 30 years business experience, spread across both the commercial sector and chartered accounting. She worked for small and multi-national accounting firms before joining Beattie Rickman in Hamilton where she became a partner and then Managing Partner. Julie was responsible for the merger of Beattie Rickman into PwC in 2006 and was Managing Partner of PwC Waikato until she moved to PwC Otago in 2011.

She has recently resigned from her role as Executive Director Finance, Procurement & Facilities at Southern DHB and is now focusing her skills and experience on her directorship roles. In addition to Perrin Ag, she is a director of Barr, Burgess & Stewart Limited – an advisory and accounting services firm based in Dunedin. Julie is currently in the process of moving to Wanaka from Dunedin, where she has lived for the past ten years.

“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the ones most responsive to change”
– Charles Darwin

Carla Muller

Director
Principal Consultant

BApplEcon, MEnvMgmt, MIRPNZ (Reg), ASNM

Carla is an agricultural economist who joined Perrin Ag in 2019 following jobs with both DairyNZ and NIWA. She specialises in analysing the impact of policy and regulatory changes on farm systems and has worked around the country on regional and national policy development. Carla has worked on a range of projects from marginal decision making, irrigation research, climate change adaptation, economic impacts of water policies, biosecurity and the use of economic instruments such as taxes and trading.  Carla has both an Applied Economics degree and a Masters in Environmental Management, from Massey University.

Carla has also held a range of directorships in the primary sector, including as a director and president of NZIPIM and PrimaryITO.

“I’m passionate about a prosperous NZ built on a strong economy and a thriving environment. I enjoy contributing to this by supporting agribusinesses across the NZ food and fibre sector to balance and achieve both economic and environmental outcomes. I enjoy working with people to understand and solve problems and try new ideas.”

Peter Keeling

Principal Consultant

BAgSc (Hons), MIRPNZ

Peter grew up on a drystock, deer & dairy property in the Horowhenua area. Before joining the Perrin Ag team in 2017 Peter was Supply Chain Manager for Firstlight Foods Ltd where he led the livestock team managing the Venison and Wagyu Producer Groups. Prior to that Peter had 20 years’ experience as an Agricultural Consultant based in Te Kuiti, where he is still based, working with predominantly sheep and beef clients.

Peter has a real focus on delivering achievable change that has meaningful results, assisting their farm businesses and teams meet their goals, under the economic and environmental challenges that are present in the industry. Peter enjoys farming his 56 ha farm, playing tennis, water skiing and mountain biking with his family in his spare time.

“I just enjoy getting out to some great but often unseen areas of rural NZ to work with clients. Helping family and corporate teams meet challenges and achieve targets at both personal and business levels is motivating and rewarding.”

Alastair MacCormick

Principal Consultant

BSc, MIRPNZ, ASNM

Following University, Alastair travelled and worked extensively through Africa before taking up agricultural flying in Australia. After 10 years dodging trees, power lines and the odd cattle beast in the exhaustive heat of the Australian outback, he returned to New Zealand and took a role with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Unwittingly entering the early stages of the water quality conundrum, Alastair spent the next 12 years working between science, policy and implementation, striving to find innovative solutions that enabled farming within environmental constraints. Alastair joined Perrin Ag in 2018 and works across the water quality space which ranges from the grass roots level with farmers wanting to continue to improve the environmental outcomes from their properties, through to how government can actually implement policy frameworks.

When he isn’t working Alastair enjoys renovating, boating and adventures with his wife and daughters.

“I enjoy working with farmers and feel for them during this time of rapid and difficult change. I believe that change is inevitable and necessary but strive to ensure it occurs in a manageable and intelligent way.”

Trudy Laan

Director
Principal Consultant

BAgSc (Hons), MIRPNZ (Reg)

Trudy graduated from Massey with an Honours degree in Agricultural Science. Since then she has been involved in practical farming on her own account and worked as a senior tutor in agriculture. She has also been a national examiner for NZQA farm business. Joining Perrin Ag in May 2002, Trudy works as a farm consultant in all areas of farming, specialising in dairying, corporate supervision, land use conversion and staff recruitment.

Trudy brings significant experience in dairy farm systems and management, along with a real passion for lifting productivity and achieving her clients’ aspirations.

“My philosophy has always been that you spend so much of your life working, that you should work at something you are passionate about and would love to do even if you were not getting paid. Having been brought up on a dairy farm where we were actively involved, I have always loved cows. I also enjoy the privilege of being trusted to assist farmers and the long term relationships we have with both staff and owners in the role as farm supervisors.”

Rachael Mitchell

Senior Consultant

CNMA, MIRPNZ, Certified GHG Adviser

Rachael emigrated from the UK in 1998, having been brought up rurally in Devon. Prior to joining the Perrin Ag team in 2014 she either jointly owned or worked on three different dry stock properties, winning two Ballance Farm Environment Awards for nutrient management and habitat creation in the process.

Rachael is one of the few independent Certified Nutrient Management Advisers in the region. Her attention to detail and passion for her clients sees her in demand with farmers wanting to establish their current environmental footprints, implement sustainable land use change or understand compliance requirements. In her spare time Rachael enjoys walking, swimming and photography.

“Having farmed in NZ since the late 90’s I have a real passion for the industry. Farming under a nitrogen cap in Lake Taupō has also given me a great insight into the challenges of farming within nutrient limits. I am passionate about helping other farmers better understand their systems in the environmental conditions they now find themselves farming in.”

Daniel Payton

Senior Consultant

BCom Ag (FM), MIRPNZ, ASNM

Daniel grew up on a dairy farm in Marlborough and after graduating from Lincoln began a career with Landcorp Farming Ltd. As Business Manager he was responsible for large scale hill country sheep, beef and deer properties with his role including developing and implementing regional livestock strategies. This provided valuable experience and exposure to large scale corporate agribusiness.

After travelling overseas Daniel experienced rural finance, servicing a wide variety of clients and business structures including family operated farms and multinational wineries.
Prior to joining Perrin Ag, Daniel and family spent eight years in the dairy industry hands on contract and lower order sharemilking in the Taranaki region. This valuable time and the experience of operating his own business gives Daniel the ability to have a real affinity with all types of clients.

“From a young age I have lived and breathed agriculture and had a deep connection with the land. I enjoy not only offering solutions for clients to achieve their business goals but also the human element that is building relationships and enabling people to grow in their business”.

Rachel Durie

Senior Consultant

BAgSc (Hons), MIRPNZ, ASNM

Rachel graduated from Lincoln University with an Honours degree in Agricultural Science. Seeking a position where she could apply her knowledge in a varied role, Rachel joined Perrin Ag in 2019. Based in the South Waikato, Rachel combines her excellent observation skills with exceptional analysis, resulting in a wide range of work. Rachel works actively with farm managers to implement the strategic farm and business plan, as part of her dairy supervisory work, to land use change analysis including recent research on incorporating forestry and trees into pastoral farm businesses, conducting composting shelter analysis, to environmental support and Overseer modelling.

Outside of Perrin Ag, Rachel and her partner Mania are running their own contract milking business, and in her spare time, Rachel enjoys getting outdoors playing soccer, hunting or fishing.

“I enjoy the opportunity to assist clients in finding practical solutions to the diverse range of challenges the agriculture sector presents. Being able to see the benefits to a client’s business from problem solving is hugely rewarding.”

Braydon Schroder

Senior Consultant

BAgSc (Hons), MIRPNZ, ASNM

Braydon was born and bred on a dairy farm in the Tararua district with a passion for animals and agribusiness from day dot. He has toured and worked on various farm systems in North America, South America and Australia through self-chosen work experience or various scholarships. In his spare time he investigates the latest dairy genetics internationally to help with breeding decisions for his dairy herd, along with judging and fitting dairy cattle both nationally and overseas.

Braydon, who joined the team in January 2019, is based out of our Rotorua office, where he manages a diverse workload ranging from facilitating RMPP Farmer Action groups, operational supervision for dairy farms, alongside land use, systems, financial and environmental modelling and analysis advisory for corporate and family farm operations.

“I really value the opportunity to help farmers translate the enormous amount of information out there, to ensure they can make more informed decisions. It’s a privilege being able to help people and their businesses succeed and grow in the agriculture sector.”

Roz Hensman

Senior Consultant

BAppSc(NRM), AdvCert(Nutrient Management)

Roz grew up on a hill country sheep and beef property near Wairoa, Hawkes Bay, before her family relocated to Palmerston North. Her connection to agriculture has been a lifelong journey, with family ties to sheep, beef, and dairy farming across Hawkes Bay and Manawatū.

Roz brings extensive expertise in natural resource management, sustainable land use, and freshwater planning to Perrin Ag. She is passionate about making the regulatory and compliance landscape easier for landowners to navigate, combining her deep understanding of soils and land management with a collaborative and respectful approach to consulting.

Joining Perrin Ag was a natural choice for Roz, who values the business’s holistic, team-based approach and its focus on delivering innovative solutions across a wide range of projects, from on-farm consulting to strategic engagements with local and central government.

When Roz isn’t working, you’ll find her enjoying the great outdoors, whether it’s gardening, tramping, or mountain biking with her family and friends. She also runs a successful family and wedding photography business.

“I love listening to landowners share their knowledge and insights about their land. Respecting their expertise is the key to creating solutions that work for them and their operations. At Perrin Ag, I’m proud to contribute to a team that’s committed to sustainable success for both land and people.”

Vance Fulton

Senior Consultant

MSc, CNMA, MIRPNZ, ASNM

Vance was brought up on a dairy farm just south of Whangarei. He graduated from Waikato University with a Master of Science (Earth Science) degree in 1992. After working as an engineering geologist in Auckland, he moved to the Northern Territory in Australia to work as a senior land management officer specialising in erosion and sediment control.

Returning to NZ in 2003 Vance settled in Papamoa where he worked for the BOP Regional Council in Rotorua helping farmers to reduce their impact on the Rotorua Lakes. In late 2005 he set up his own business providing agricultural environmental services specialising in Overseer modelling. He is a Certified Nutrient Management Advisor and joined the Perrin Ag team as an Environmental Consultant in 2016.

“Being brought up on a small Northland dairy farm, my heart has always been with the land and its people. I enjoy working with and getting to know farmers and helping them to minimise their environmental footprint whilst maintaining economic productivity.”

Rob Brazendale

Senior Consultant

BAgSc (Hons), MIRPNZ, ASNM

With over 30 years in the agricultural sector, Rob knows how to navigate farmers through the regulatory maze.

During that time, his work has been varied from farm advisory and farm management research to rural banking and dairy farm systems development. Rob joined Perrin Ag in 2022 from DairyNZ where he was regional leader for the Lower North Island.

He also runs a lamb and beef finishing operation in the Manawatu. So, he has a good understanding of farming, from milking cows and shearing sheep to the regulatory process in Wellington.

Rob has a successful track record in senior leadership, along with his exceptional technical knowledge and communication skills. Based in Palmerston North, he is instrumental in helping Perrin Ag grow its business in the Rangitikei, Manawatu and Hawke’s Bay.

“Part of my job is to bridge the gap between the worlds of policy makers and farmers – to bring the on-farm perspective into the policy-making room, and vice versa. If that can be done, the environment can be respected, and farming can be sustain its profitability. New Zealand needs both.

“It’s an ever-changing world for our farmers. It’s not easy. But we can help coach them through the maze. That’s my job. It’s why I joined the Perrin Ag team.”

Dwayne Cowin

Senior Consultant

BApplSc, MIRPNZ

After graduating from Massey University in 2007 Dwayne embarked on a career in the sheep and beef industry. Following shepherding and a sole charge stock management role, Dwayne moved onto a livestock operations manager role at Lochinver Station. In 2015, Dwayne and his wife Zara entered into an equity partnership on a 420 ha sheep and beef farm located in Piopio, King Country. Dwayne and Zara still actively manage this property and live there with their young family.

Dwayne joined Perrin Ag in 2019 and specialises in all aspects of sheep and beef farming. Aside from farming, Dwayne’s interests include rugby, hunting, fishing and water-skiing.

“I have a passion for seeing farms develop and progress, and also enjoy being able to see the people involved demonstrate the ability to lift both productivity and profitability, without compromising their environmental footprint. We are all only caretakers of the land, and it gives me great satisfaction seeing so many farmers leaving the farm in a better state than when they started.”

Sam Gray

Consultant

BAppSc(Hons), MIRPNZ, ASNM

Sam grew up on a dairy farm in the Far North. After graduating from the University of Otago in 2005 with an Honours degree in molecular biotechnology, he spent several years working in medical research in New Zealand and Scotland. Upon returning to New Zealand in 2012, he spent four seasons dairy farming in Northland before purchasing a 56 ha block in Taupо̄, where he was first exposed to farming under a nitrogen cap. Sam joined Perrin Ag in 2023 and brings his strong analytical skills that are grounded by a pragmatic approach to problem solving. Outside of farming and consultancy, you’ll likely find him fly fishing, hunting or snowboarding.

“A lot of farmers feel overwhelmed in the face of a rapidly changing regulatory landscape. I strive to help farmers understand what these environmental regulations mean for their business, and offer practical solutions that allow them to keep doing what they do best, whilst remaining compliant”.

Joel Hensman

Senior Consultant

BApplSc(Ag), MIRPNZ, ISNM

Joel’s interest in agriculture began with his upbringing on a 1,000-hectare block of Kereru Station backing onto the Ruahine Ranges. Joel went on to earn a Bachelor of Ag Science at Massey University, laying the foundation for a career in the primary sector. On the back of a farming career and with over 12 years of professional experience, Joel joined Perrin Ag in 2024.

Joel’s ability to think outside of the box and empower others to learn and grow, means that he is well equipped to manage farm supervision and strategic planning. He has previously been involved with enhancing and supporting Māori led organisations through major development farm supervision projects.

Outside of the workplace, Joel is a family man at heart and enjoys activities like mountain biking, tramping, and hunting. Living in a modest ‘tiny house’ and running a small farm operation, Joel is passionate about growing great food and helping people understand where their food comes from – all while keeping his boots dirty.

“I help our clients step out of their daily realm and look at things through a broader lens. I am acutely aware of the mental health challenges facing our industry and the need to maintain the sustainability of our land and our people. We want farm practices that ensure long-term success without compromising farmers’ well-being.”

Courtney Stone

Consultant

BEnvSc, MIRPNZ, ISNM

Courtney joined Perrin Ag in 2022 after roles at both MPI and NIWA. Born and bred in Tauranga, she lived in Wellington for six years before an opportunity to live and work closer to whānau came about. Courtney has worked on a range of projects from supporting career pathways and capability in the advisory sector, biological emissions reduction from agriculture and water availability and security in Aotearoa.

With a keen interest in whole of system thinking and customer-centric solutions, she brings energy and fresh thinking to the team. Courtney has a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Physical Geography.

Outside of the workplace, Courtney enjoys spending time outdoors and never passes up a good flat white.

“I get a lot of joy out of seeing people thrive in our sector. If I can add value and support clients to get closer to where they want to be, that is a success to me.”

Vicky Ferris

Consultant

BAgSci

Vicky brings a strong background in livestock supply, agribusiness, and commercial operations to the Perrin Ag team. Growing up closely connected to the primary sector, she developed an early understanding of the people, systems, and challenges that underpin New Zealand agriculture.

Based in Hawke’s Bay, Vicky brings experience across both dairy and dry stock systems, with roles spanning livestock supply planning and account management. She has worked closely with farmers, processors, and industry stakeholders, building a practical understanding of how on-farm decisions connect through the wider supply chain and influence commercial outcomes.

Vicky enjoys working alongside farmers and rural businesses to navigate complexity, improve performance, and identify opportunities for long-term success. She brings a clear-thinking, practical approach and is passionate about supporting confident decision-making in an evolving sector.

Outside of work, Vicky enjoys spending time outdoors and within the rural communities she’s closely connected to.

“I feel privileged to be able to contribute to farmers and rural businesses in a meaningful way, and I’m passionate about the primary sector and the communities that sit behind it.”

Katherine Martin

Consultant

BSc (EnvSci), MIRPNZ, ISNM

Katherine brings a strong background in horticulture and environmental science to Perrin Ag, with expertise in soil and freshwater health, biodiversity, farm mapping, and resource management.

Growing up on a lifestyle block in Bombay, surrounded by kiwifruit orchards and market gardens, she developed an early appreciation for the primary industries. This led her to complete a Bachelor of Environmental Science, minoring in Planning Studies, at Massey University before gaining hands-on experience in crop agronomy, supply chain planning, and sustainability projects.

Katherine is passionate about helping farmers and growers create practical, sustainable solutions that balance productivity with environmental responsibility.

Outside of work, she enjoys trail running, mountain biking, and competing in show jumping – pursuits that reflect her love for the outdoors and a challenge.

“I’m passionate about people, the environment, and sustainable food production. At Perrin Ag, I get to work alongside farmers and growers to create positive change – for their businesses, their land, and the wider community.”

Alyssa Brazendale

Consultant

BAgSci

Alyssa grew up on a sheep and beef farm in Halcombe, Manawatū, where she developed a strong connection to the land and a practical understanding of farm life. Early involvement across a range of on farm activities sparked her interest in agriculture and the rural community.

After completing a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Massey University, Alyssa joined Perrin Ag through the Empower graduate recruitment programme. She brings strong communication and problem solving skills to her role, with interests in farm systems, nutrient planning, and environmental management.
Alyssa enjoys working alongside farming businesses to support informed decision making that balances productivity, profitability, and long term sustainability.

Outside of work, Alyssa enjoys hockey, keeping active, spending time outdoors, and travelling to experience new cultures.

“I’m excited to be part of a forward‑thinking team and contribute to a sustainable future for our primary industries.”

Michael Matthews

Business Manager

BMS, CPIM, SSCMP

Mike joined Perrin Ag in 2022 after nearly a decade working in supply chain and logistics roles with dairy giant Fonterra and GPS positioning system company, Trimble Navigation.

His energy, commercial experience and rapport with people are a winning combination for driving change and building on the value Perrin Ag delivers its clients. He also has a Bachelor of Management Studies in PR and supply chain management from Waikato University.

If change is going to come, Mike firmly believes he’s got to be the most enthusiastic person in the room and the one who invites people to join in.

“It’s not enough for me to see the improvement possibilities. The rest of the team needs to have buy-in and be motivated to make good things happen.

“There is such goodwill at Perrin Ag. I’m confident that together we’re going to achieve great things for our clients and the wider agribusiness sector.”

Gayle Newman

Finance and client services manager

Gayle was brought up on a sheep station in Masterton and spent childhood holidays on the family dairy farm in Dannevirke. Her family moved to Kaitaia before eventually settling in Rotorua. Gayle’s previous professional background is hotel management and tourism. Gayle now manages Perrin Ag finances and our Client Services team, which sees her successfully dealing with the less-sexy but critically important behind the scenes functions of our business and farm businesses in relation to data management, payroll, health and safety and digital information systems.

Gayle is a keen mountain biker and spends a lot of her spare time on Rotorua’s world class trails.

“In my role as Finance and Client Services Manager, I can live in Rotorua and enjoy (on a daily basis if I could) the Redwood Forest and the mountain bike trails. I love working closely with our farm mangers and the diversity my role offers, and being able to support the managers and hopefully make some of those admin tasks a bit more bearable.”

Chaylee Thomson

Executive Assistant

Chaylee’s roots are in the Bay of Plenty, where she grew up on a lifestyle block, sparking her lifelong connection to the region. Now based in Rotorua, she plays a crucial role in supporting our Managing Director, Lee Matheson, by helping him facilitate the seamless integration of people and projects both behind and beyond the farm gate.

With over a decade of experience as an Executive Assistant and Office Manager, Chaylee is a highly organised and competent professional. She excels in relationship building, time management, and problem-solving. Her diverse career spans several sectors, including education, government, and iwi, with seven years of experience working in Parliament for NZ First.

Outside of work, Chaylee leads an active lifestyle. She enjoys spending time outdoors, going for walks, working out at the gym, and cherishing moments with her young daughter.

“I was drawn to Perrin Ag because of the passionate and dedicated team. Working with such an enthusiastic group is both inspiring and motivating.”

Rhys Dawson

Consultant

BAgSci

Rhys grew up in Auckland, but farming has always been in his blood. With a family history of dairy farming in the Waikato stretching back generations, he spent plenty of time on-farm growing up, learning the ropes and developing a real appreciation for the industry.

After completing a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Massey University, Rhys joined Perrin Ag in 2025 through our Empower graduate recruitment programme. He’s excited to be surrounded by experienced consultants who each bring their own expertise and insights. He reckons Perrin Ag is the perfect place to learn, grow, and make a meaningful contribution to our primary sector.

Rhys is passionate about farm management supervision and advisory, helping farmers make informed decisions that drive productivity and sustainability. He’s also keen to explore research and supply chain management, areas where Perrin Ag plays a big role in shaping the future of the industry.

Outside of work, you’ll find Rhys out and about – whether it’s running, playing rugby, or hitting the golf course. He loves spending time outdoors, heading to the beach, and travelling whenever he gets the chance.

“What excites me about Perrin Ag is the opportunity to work alongside such a knowledgeable team and contribute to real-world solutions for farmers. I’m looking forward to learning as much as I can and making a positive impact in the industry.”

Lee Matheson

Managing Director
Principal Consultant

B.Appl.Sc (Hons), FIRPNZ (Reg)

Lee came to agribusiness consultancy via the unlikely pathway of a suburban Wellington upbringing, an Honours degree in plant science and a six-year career in the financial markets. In his role as the firm’s MD, Lee doesn’t get out on-farm as much as he used to but makes the most of it when he does. While having swapped the paddock for the boardroom, Lee continues to provide advice in the areas of farm business strategy, farm system innovation, corporate governance, investment analysis and economic research.

Outside of Perrin Ag, Lee loves to spend his time coaching rugby, watching his three kids play sport and gardening with his wife Haidee.

“I love the challenge of empowering people in our primary sectors and the excitement of seeing clients achieving their aspirations.  If we can encourage farmers to engage with their consumers, take a more active involvement in their supply chains and view their businesses through a wider lens, then I think our industries have a great future.”

Abbey Dowd

Consultant

B.Ag.Sc (Hons), MIRPNZ

Abbey joined Perrin Ag in February 2023 as part of the firm’s graduate recruitment programme, Empower.

Abbey grew up surrounded by dairy farms in a close-knit community in South Waikato. She saw first-hand how local farmers supported her community, which is what inspired her to study at Lincoln University.

Growing up in a rural community Abbey has always been impressed by how much local farmers contribute to the community. She wanted to help give back to the industry and play a part in helping our primary sector continue to produce quality food in a sustainable way.

In 2022, Abbey spent the summer as an intern on one of New Zealand’s first commercial deer milking operations. Her Honours project was researching deer milk alongside other more traditional milking operations and assessing the deer milking industry’s future production possibilities.

Abbey is currently on sabbatical leave until the end of 2025.

“Growing up I didn’t live on a farm, but I always knew I wanted to work in the farming sector. I wanted a role where there was a balance between working on and off farm and where I could support farmers to get the best out of their businesses.”

Laura McQuillan-Reese

Consultant

B.Ag.Sc (Hons), MIRPNZ

Laura joined Perrin Ag in 2022 as a graduate advisor through the firm’s Empower programme. She grew up on a sheep farm in the small town of Hawarden, Christchurch. From the time she could walk, she was out helping on farm, learning the art of stockmanship and nurturing her passion for farming. 

Before attending university, Laura gained a wealth of hands-on experience on several Canterbury farms. She started her Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hons) at Lincoln University in 2018 but kept building on her practical farming knowledge in dairy and sheep and beef in parallel with her study.

Laura is a proud advocate for the primary industries. In her Honours year, Laura studied the quality of crossbred wool production in New Zealand and what opportunities that could provide for the industry. She also reared 130 Spring calves per year on leased land to help fund her studies.

“I’m really excited about being part of the Perrin Ag team. It’s a challenging time for the agricultural industry, but with that comes a huge amount of opportunity and promise for the future. I’m really looking forward to providing our clients high quality farm systems advice and supporting resilience and profitability in the agricultural sector.”

Morgan Inness

Consultant

B.Ag.Sc (Hons), MIRPNZ

Morgan grew up just north of Whanganui as part of a rural community, which started his passion for agriculture. After graduating from Lincoln University with an Honours degree in Agricultural Science, Morgan spent two years working as an agricultural consultant in Scotland and Northern England. This was a challenging time for UK farmers dealing with the impact of Brexit.

Morgan has a real interest in all sectors of the agricultural industry from horticulture to livestock. He brings experience in all systems with a focus on helping clients achieve their goals whether that be financial, environmental, land use change modelling or supervision. 

Outside of Perrin Ag Morgan has a love for the outdoors and is often found hunting, fishing, involved in sports such as rugby, cricket or mountain biking.

“I am extremely passionate about New Zealand agriculture and the people involved in it. I get great satisfaction from helping clients better their business. I am committed to working collaboratively with farmers to help our sector to adapt and grow.”

John Stantiall

Senior Consultant

BAgSc, MApplSc, MIRPNZ, ASNM

John, based in Palmerston North, provides one-on-one advisory services to sheep, beef and deer clients as well as specialising in group facilitation and learning. He facilitates a number of farmer discussion groups in lower and central North Island. John is well known for facilitating extension programmes such as monitor farms and RMPP funded groups.

John assists clients as part of their “management team” with issues such as benchmarking, business reviews, strategic and tactical planning, financial and feed budgeting. He facilitates a one-day workshop on feed budgeting when there is demand and this is a spreadsheet-based feed budget which participants set up at the workshop and keep for their on-going use. John is very familiar with software modelling tools such as Farmax and Overseer to get the greatest benefit for clients.

“I am passionate about pastoral farming and rural people, I enjoy working with farmers and the technological and business challenges they face. I especially enjoy helping people learn. Seeing clients and staff develop confidence and achieve improved farm performance from the knowledge and skills they gain is very rewarding.”

Lee Matheson

Managing Director
Principal Consultant

B.Appl.Sc (Hons), FIRPNZ (Reg)

Lee came to agribusiness consultancy via the unlikely pathway of a suburban Wellington upbringing, an Honours degree in plant science and a six-year career in the financial markets. In his role as the firm’s MD, Lee doesn’t get out on-farm as much as he used to but makes the most of it when he does. While having swapped the paddock for the boardroom, Lee continues to provide advice in the areas of farm business strategy, farm system innovation, corporate governance, investment analysis and economic research.

Outside of Perrin Ag, Lee loves to spend his time coaching rugby, watching his three kids play sport and gardening with his wife Haidee.

“I love the challenge of empowering people in our primary sectors and the excitement of seeing clients achieving their aspirations. If we can encourage farmers to engage with their consumers, take a more active involvement in their supply chains and view their businesses through a wider lens, then I think our industries have a great future.”

Michael Booth

Senior Consultant

BCom Af (FM)

Mike brings a wealth of agri-tech and dairy systems expertise to Perrin Ag. After graduating with a Bachelor of AgriCommerce from Massey, he started his career with DairyNZ as a consulting officer where he ran discussion groups and managed farm supervision.

He left DairyNZ to travel the world but within a few months Covid hit, the borders closed, and Mike and his wife Nikita returned home. Back in New Zealand, he took up a role managing DairyNZ’s monitor farms on the Hauraki Plains before joining Halter.

After finishing his OE, he returned home to live in Papamoa and joined the Perrin Ag team in February 2024.

“I’m not someone who likes to sit still and I like to be continually learning. I saw an opportunity with Perrin Ag. As a business their ethos is about continuous improvement and learning. There are always new and better ways of doing things and we need to be at the forefront of that for our clients.”

Abbey Dowd

Consultant

BAgSc (Hons), MIRPNZ, ASNM

Abbey joined Perrin Ag in February 2023 as part of the firm’s graduate recruitment programme, Empower.

Abbey grew up surrounded by dairy farms in a close-knit community in South Waikato. She saw first-hand how local farmers supported her community, which is what inspired her to study at Lincoln University.

Growing up in a rural community Abbey has always been impressed by how much local farmers contribute to the community. She wanted to help give back to the industry and play a part in helping our primary sector continue to produce quality food in a sustainable way.

In 2022, Abbey spent the summer as an intern on one of New Zealand’s first commercial deer milking operations. Her Honours project was researching deer milk alongside other more traditional milking operations and assessing the deer milking industry’s future production possibilities.

Abbey is currently on sabbatical leave until the end of 2025.

“Growing up I didn’t live on a farm, but I always knew I wanted to work in the farming sector. I wanted a role where there was a balance between working on and off farm and where I could support farmers to get the best out of their businesses.”

Danni Armstrong

Finance administrator

Danni grew up on a life style block in Atiamuri and spent five seasons as a relief milker in the area. During this time, her full time roles were in various fields including the rental car, health care and marine industries. Danni has had a focus on administrative and accounting duties, but is also proficient in looking after customers especially well, social media and website operation, running a rental car fleet and the associated tasks like training, rosters, H&S and organising repairs! Danni joined Perrin Ag in May 2021, to be part of a business in an industry she is passionate about.

During her spare time Danni can be found reading a book with her cats or out enjoying the walks in Rotorua’s Redwoods.

“What motivates me each day is knowing that I will be challenged with a range of problem solving tasks. I love to see all the figures adding up and knowing that my role makes a difference to the team.”