Gemma has been Chief Executive of South Kaipara Good Food (SKGF) since October 2021, leading a dedicated team and volunteers to build a more connected, food-secure South Kaipara.
With over a decade of experience in operations, strategy, and not-for-profit leadership, she has guided SKGF from immediate food relief to long-term community resilience through initiatives in food rescue, home growing, education, and social enterprise models.
Gemma is also pursuing Master’s research on how not-for-profits leverage relationships and resources to build resilience, and works with national organisations to strengthen food security networks across Aotearoa. She champions sustainability, local leadership, and collective action to create lasting change.
For more than 30 years, Jo has called Helensville home. During that time, she has been an active and valued member of the community, volunteering her time generously and serving on a range of committees and boards.
Now, as Team Lead for Kai Grow, Jo describes this role as the most fulfilling she has held. Her passion lies in supporting people to step outside, connect with nature, and build confidence through hands-on learning in the garden.
Jo’s leadership is grounded in her deep community ties and her belief that growing kai is about more than just food – it’s about wellbeing, resilience, and sharing knowledge for future generations.
Rachel is UK-born, growing up near Liverpool before moving away for university. She qualified as a barrister in 1997 and emigrated to NZ in 1999 to work for Russell McVeagh, and subsequently other commercial law firms. For the past 13 years, she has run her own specialist IP law firm.
Rachel has been a member of the New Zealand organising committee for the Intellectual Property Society of Australia and New Zealand (IPSANZ) for over a decade, serving as president for two years. She also served on the trans-Tasman committee with members from the Australian state committees, and currently serves as a board member of the French New Zealand Business Council for over six years. Rachel lives in Glen Innes with her family, and is acutely aware of food insecurity in and within the community she serves and lives within.
Janine brings a wealth of experience in occupational therapy and behaviour support, paired with a deep connection to rural life through her family’s sheep farm in Helensville. With over 20 years working alongside individuals, whānau, and support networks, she’s passionate about helping people build confidence, independence, and wellbeing in everyday life.
Janine’s background spans brain injury rehabilitation, behaviour support, and community-based care — all underpinned by her belief that everyone deserves the chance to live well and contribute meaningfully. Grounded, practical, and community-minded, Janine combines her professional expertise with her understanding of rural living to support local people in ways that truly make a difference.
