This was the final phase of the programme, where all they learned in Phases 1 and 2 was consolidated. The seventeen participants spent an intensive three days in the capitol city.

Activities included: visiting Parliament and the Minister for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy, presenting on the development of their individual leadership plans, discussing industry issues and leadership with Labour Primary Industries spokesperson, Damien O’Connor, and listening to a panel of product group CEs and HortNZ executives.

At last count, HortNZ reports that a total of 27 graduates of the programme are sitting on local fruit or vegetable industry boards and committees.