Richard Palmer is a New Zealander whose career has taken him from the paddocks of Brightwater to the olive groves, grain fields, and export markets of Europe and beyond.

Now based in Greece, Richard works at the intersection of international trade, primary production, and agricultural innovation.

He will give some focus on Greek foreign policy / security.

Richard has deep roots in the horticulture industry, having grown up in—and now managing—his family’s farming business on the Waimea Plains, where they grow apples, kiwifruit, and wine grapes.

He brings a wealth of experience from across the sector, having been involved with industry organisations such as Summerfruit New Zealand, Process Vegetables New Zealand, and Horticulture New Zealand. His background also includes working for the Australian Department of Agriculture and managing an apple packing business.

Richard currently lives in Athens, where his wife Alison serves as the Australian Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic. They’ve spent the past two years exploring Greece, enjoying its warm hospitality, and experiencing the rich diversity the country offers.

Prior to this, Alison and Richard have also been posted in the Solomon Islands, Wellington, and Jakarta, making the most of each opportunity to connect with people and cultures along the way.

Don’t forget to register by pressing the REGISTER TO THE EVENT button and THEN filling in the form which records your name and numbers etc.  

IMPORTANT - If you want to bring guests we ask two things…check with us if there is room, and please tell them the REGISTER TO THE EVENT button is strictly for members only.

This notice of Meeting will go to current Nelson members for 10 DAYS before we open the meeting up to the casual attendees who are on our list so please register early - and if perchance you can no longer make the date please let us know.