Organisation’s board says it was unanimous in the decision following a rigorous recruitment process
The New Zealand Apples and Pears (NZAPI) board has announced the appointment of Danielle Adsett as chief executive, effective immediately.
Prior to the appointment, Adsett was the organisation’s market access manager for six years and has been the acting general manager since December 2025.
NZAPI said in a release Adsett had provided strong and steady leadership along with clear direction and continuity for the organisation and the appointment reflected her deep knowledge of the industry and her future-focused vision for the organisation, its members and the broader sector.
NZAPI chair Andrew Gibbs said the board was unanimous in its decision after a rigorous recruitment process.
“Danielle’s clear vision for the industry, leadership capability, and deep, long-term dedication to the sector were evident throughout the process and made her the standout candidate,” Gibbs said. “We look forward to working with Danielle and the team to deliver further benefits for our members and New Zealand as a whole.”
The announcement comes at a key point in time for the industry, which achieved more than NZ$1bn in export revenue for the first time in 2025, following several challenging seasons marred by weather events and covid-19.
Adsett said she was honoured by the appointment and is committed to the success of the sector and NZAPI members.
“Our growers are passionate, innovative and resilient and they produce the world’s best apples,” she said.
“I am proud and excited to have the opportunity to support the industry, to advocate on their behalf as we seek to double exports and to work alongside a phenomenal team at NZAPI, who are all equally as committed to our members’ success.”
NZAPI has now begun recruitment for a market access manager.
