Whitney Conder was drawn to horticulture as an accidental admirer, a summer job that turned into a 22-year career.
Coming from a farming background, Conder had always loved working outdoors and being connected to the land. She said there was something incredibly grounding about helping crops grow and knowing the direct impact one could have on the fruit's quality and the season's success.
“I enjoy the mix of hands‑on work, problem‑solving, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with supporting a healthy orchard,” she said.
Over time, Conder built experience across a range of seasonal tasks, from thinning and pruning to harvest systems and support, which gave her a greater understanding and respect for the full orchard cycle.
That practical foundation eventually led her to her current role as Orchard Manager at Central Orchard Management, where she focuses on planning, coordination, and operational support.
“Having experienced the work firsthand helps me understand what the team needs and how to make systems run more smoothly.”
According to Conder, taking the small wins and learning from them, as well as the failures, is key. She takes great joy in seeing management blocks and permanent staff succeed and thrive.
Being trusted with more responsibility and being able to support both the orchard and the people who work in it has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing the results of a season come together, especially when the team faces challenges and still delivers, always feels like an accomplishment.
She remains motivated by the constant variety and challenge that the orchard environment provides.
“No two days are the same, and every season brings new opportunities and challenges to improve processes, help solve problems, and support the people around me.”
Conder added that she enjoyed being part of a team that is always striving for better outcomes and contributing to something tangible and meaningful.
“Knowing that my work directly supports the orchard’s success and the people who make it happen keeps me driven.”
She admired the younger generation coming through who succeed in the industry through their own commitment to it and their collaboration with others, as well as established leaders and industry bodies such as Summerfruit New Zealand and Horticulture New Zealand.
She mentioned that the Central Otago Fruit industry was lucky to have such great people amongst it who contribute in many ways to the greater good of the industry.
They've shaped how Conder thinks about her day-to-day processes and management skills, and from them she has learned the importance of staying adaptable, planning while remaining responsive to what nature throws at you, and maintaining a positive, practical mindset in a highly seasonal environment.
“Horticulture work has many variables, including weather, soil, pests, labour, and technology. Those who grow quickly are the ones who keep learning and aren’t afraid to dive in.”
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