A West Country lad from England, Simon grew up in the midst of a farming environment. After university he headed down under to learn more about why New Zealand was the benchmark of world agriculture.

‘I arrived in January 2003 and have worked for Altum since July 2005. I started as a field consultant in Southland as I really enjoyed farming in the area, although it gets a touch colder than back in the UK.

'I spend my spare time cycling and have to thank work for allowing me to go overseas with representative cycling teams in the past few years.’

Christine arrived in New Zealand in 2006 from a sheep and beef farm on the Isle of Mull in Scotland. She’s tried her hand at shepherding, truck-driving, commercial fishing, pub and restaurant management, and completed a B.Sc in agricultural and environmental science, with Honours in animal science, and a law degree.

'I joined Altum in Southland in January 2009. I particularly like the variety that the role offers, dealing with different farming systems and nutrition programmes.

'Outside of work, I enjoy helping out on friends’ sheep farms, Scottish music and walking.'