Potatoes New Zealand connects with various women in the industry as part of International Women’s Day and International Year of the Woman Farmer to discover the amazing work they do in the sector.
Name: Vikki Nicholson
Company: Hinemoa Quality Producers Ltd
What do you do in your current role?
My role at Hinemoa Quality Producers Ltd is Finance/Administration Manager. Hinemoa is a family run business now in its fourth generation growing potatoes and onion for domestic and export markets. Located in the North Waikato region of Pukekawa we live in a beautiful part of the foodbowl of New Zealand.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I have been involved in the business full time for 30 years having met my husband Chris and leaving my career in hotel management for a very different pathway.
What a wonderful environment to raise a family and learn the intricacies of the rural sector and commercial vegetable growing!
My role is diverse, I manage budgeting which is challenging with a husband who is always spending and payroll, HR, compliance, invoicing, accounting which is constantly changing. Ensuring the business operates sustainably and efficiently behind the scenes. Horticulture may be driven by what happens in the paddock, but strong administration and financial oversight are essential to every harvest.
What challenges have your faced in your role?
Working in the agriculture sector as a woman does come with challenges. Balancing seasonal pressures, long hours and family responsibilities is a reality many women in rural industries navigate.
What does your organisation do for inclusion and diversity
Our business is committed to building a more inclusive and supportive workplace, we have employed hundreds of people over the years from all walks of life, nationalities and cultures. We enjoy having a team that enjoy our family business morals and the pride in producing a premium product that they have helped get to market. We foster a culture of respect, teamwork and open communication, ensuring every team member feels heard and valued.
Can you name a standout moment in your life?
Back in 2012, Chris and I entered the Waikato Balance Farm Awards as the only vegetable growing operation with competitors from the more traditional Dairy and Beef and Sheep industries, we were stunned to win the competition and represent Waikato at the National Competition in Wellington.
It was a turning point in our business acumen, encouraging me to believe that women do have a strong position to advocate and be heard in a male dominated environment. I would encourage all women to challenge yourselves and step outside the comfort zone. It is very empowering to succeed!
On International Women’s Day, I am proud to represent women contributing to horticulture in every capacity – proving the strength in farming comes not only from the soil, but from the diverse people who help it thrive. ~ Vikki Nicholson
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women’s achievements or rally for women’s equality. #AccelerateAction
Find out more www.internationalwomensday.com
The United Nations declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026). The Year will spotlight the essential roles women play across agrifood systems, from production to trade, while often going unrecognized. Women farmers are central to food security, nutrition and economic resilience. IYWF 2026 will raise awareness and promote actions to close the gender gaps and improve women’s livelihoods worldwide.
Find out more www.fao.org/woman-farmer-2026/en