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Faculty

Programme Director
John Ridout BSoc.Sc, Grad.Dip.Rural Studies

John has had over 30 years’ experience in biodynamics including seven years as a Demeter Licensee. He has worked both with and for the New Zealand BioDynamic Association, and is currently a Demeter farm inspector and OFNZ auditor. John has also had 20 years’ experience in adult education.

Assistant Programme Director
Fiona Ward BAg.Sc(Hons), Dip.Land.Arch

Fiona has a broad applied agricultural background in livestock farming, rural NZ self sufficiency and outdoor education with children. Her training has led to work in conservation planning and design (Department of Conservation) and sustainable agriculture (AgResearch/ MafTech).

Programme Consultants

Chris Hull: Chris is a farm manager at Hohepa, Poraiti, and has had over 30 years’ experience in biodynamic agriculture. Chris ran the biodynamic seed bank and has made biodynamic preparations for many years.

Andy Black: Andy was the garden manager at Weleda NZ Ltd in Hawkes Bay for 5 years as well as having 25 years’ experience in biodynamic agriculture with an emphasis on vegetable and herb growing. Andy is also a member of the Demeter Inspectorate.

Other specialist tutors, many of whom are national leaders in their field of expertise, provide support and knowledge during the seminars.