Business Judging Panel

Greg Bodeker


Greg Bodeker is the director of Bodeker Scientific Ltd, a private research company operating from Alexandra. Bodeker Scientific conducts research into the chemistry and climate of Earth's atmosphere. Greg has a PhD in Physics from the University of Natal in South Africa, and worked for the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) for a little over 15 years before leaving in 2009 to start Bodeker Scientific. He is also the director of Kentron Ltd and an adjunct professor at Victoria University. Greg has a passion for seeing innovation being used to transition New Zealand's economy to a long-term sustainable model.

Tara Druce


Tara Druce runs a research and planning consultancy, Druce Consulting, based in Central Otago. She has a background working for central government in public policy and research in Wellington. Since moving to Central Otago twelve years ago, she has worked on business, tourism and community development projects within our region and beyond. Tara coordinates the Regional Business Partners Programme for the region and is an organiser of the Central Otago Export Forum. She is also a Trustee of Alexandra Community House and the Central Otago Community Arts Trust. She lives in Alexandra with her husband and three daughters.

Susan Finlay


Susan is the CEO of Central Lakes Trust, a charitable trust that grants funds within the Southern Lakes and Central Otago areas. The trust is the largest philanthropic trust per capita in the Southern Hemisphere, having granted over $90 million back into our community, and has a diverse portfolio of international and national investments. Susan has an extensive business background in public and private sector executive management roles, particularly in finance and management, as well as a passion for understanding communities issues. Susan lives with her husband and two children on their cherry orchard on the outskirts of Cromwell.

Eoin Garden


Eoin started his farm ownership career in 1965 on Avenel Station at Millers Flat. Avenel became an early adopter of many new and innovative land use systems. In partnership with Noeline and one of his sons, Eoin farms sheep, beef cattle, deer and dairy, as well as large scale forestry.  At an early stage Eoin became involved in Federated Farmers at provincial and national level where he held several senior roles and represented the Federation on a number of sector organisations.  In 1998 Eoin became director on the PPCS Board, rising to the role of Chairman of Silver Fern Farms. He took a keen interest in, studied and implemented Best Practice Governance for New Zealand Companies. Eoin is a retired Chartered Member of the NZ Institute of Directors. Over his career, Eoin has received a number of New Zealand awards and scholarships in the agricultural industry.

Kelly Gay


Kelly Gay has recently joined the team at the Central Otago Polytechnic as Campus Manager. He has a substantial history in the polytechnic centre (including being a Dean of Trades and Technology) but has also consulted in the University, School and Private Tertiary Educator (PTE) sectors. He has a personal interest in how students transition from school to employment or further education.

"Apprenticeships are such a critical part of New Zealand trades. In fact the two terms are often used synonymously. Too often people under-appreciate the dedication required by apprentices, and the contribution of employers. I am pleased to help with the Central Otago awards and recognise the value of apprenticeships and various contributions to our region and country", Kelly said. 
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