THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES

Wayne farms with his family in the stunning Golden Bay and brings a strong background in farmer advocacy, having held leadership roles with Federated Farmers at both local and national levels. A well-known mental health advocate in the rural sector, Wayne built a wide social media following as the "YOLO Farmer." He is also the co-founder of Meat the Need, a national charity created to supply New Zealand food banks with mince and milk donated by farmers.
‍
When he's not working on the farm, supporting charitable initiatives, or serving in governance roles, Wayne is most likely found on the sidelines of a community rugby match — a passion close to his heart.

Sandra Alfeld is an experienced Director with over a decade running her own business and is a proud member of the Institute of Directors NZ. She has held senior executive roles across a wide range of industries, including agriculture, FMCG, media and production, telecommunications, and the not-for-profit and charity sectors. Originally from Northland and a descendant of Te Rarawa iwi, Sandra now lives on a high-country station in North Canterbury with her husband and two children.
‍
A lifelong advocate for health and wellness, she studied Sport and Recreation and has a background in competitive sport. She understands the vital role nutrition and food security play in thriving communities and looks forward to supporting the Wild Game Recovery Trust’s strategic goals.

Liam O’Brien is a Melbourne-based mechanical plumber with over two decades of experience in the construction and trades industry. A proud father of two and a devoted partner, Liam brings a grounded, thoughtful, and hands-on approach to everything he’s involved in. Although his professional background lies outside the conservation space, Liam developed a strong appreciation for New Zealand’s natural environment during a period living there.
‍
Known for his meticulous nature, integrity, and deep care for people and community, Liam offers a practical perspective and steady presence on the trust. While not directly involved in operational matters, he is passionate about supporting purpose-led initiatives and offers a unique outside perspective to the governance structure.

Duncan Cotterill Partner Dene Gavin specialises in commercial and property law, with a particular focus on rural law. He regularly advises clients on business purchases, shareholders’ agreements, leasing matters, banking and finance, commercial contracts, restructuring, collaborative agreements, and joint ventures.
‍
Dene has broad experience across a wide range of commercial matters and works with clients in sectors including construction, tourism, rural, forestry, aquaculture, and property.
He looks forward to contributing his expertise to the Wild Game Recovery Trust Board.

Sarah has a real appreciation for the rural sector and the people who make it thrive. She sees hunting groups as playing a key role in keeping wild animal numbers in check and as an often-unsung force in supporting conservation and food security. Working with WGRT, she’s focused on practical, community-driven solutions that look after both people and the environment.

With a Master of Health Science and experience in education, paramedicine, and community programme leadership, Sarah brings a hands-on, people-focused approach. She values research and community insight, combining them with practical experience to guide projects that deliver meaningful impact. Sarah is a member of Business and Professional Women NZ and United Nations NZ, serves on the board of Courage Collective, and volunteers as a Refugee Support Volunteer with Red Cross.

Originally from the UK, Ben grew up involved in hunting and countryside pursuits. His involvement in gamekeeping led him to New Zealand, where he pursued his career as the gamekeeper on a pheasant shoot just outside Rotorua. With a deep understanding of pest and land management, Ben brings a practical and grounded perspective to Wild Game Recovery Trust.

He’s passionate about connecting field expertise with community outcomes and sees hunting as a way to contribute meaningfully to food security and environmental stewardship. Ben's knowledge, energy, and boots-on-the-ground experience make him a valuable asset in the Trust’s mission to support people, the land, and the food it can provide.

Lydia supports Wild Game Recovery Trust as both Accountant and Bookkeeper through Apex Accounting. She has 14 years of accounting experience and holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting). Based in Nelson, Lydia specialises in compliance work and is a proud member of The Accountants + Tax Agents Institute of New Zealand (ATAINZ). Beyond the numbers, she values building strong, trusting relationships with clients, providing personalised support and clear communication. Lydia’s expertise and client-focused approach make her a vital part of the Trust’s financial health and long-term success.