NZ Landcare Trust is delighted to welcome Alastair Cole to the team. Alastair took up the new post of Manawatu-Whanganui Regional Coordinator on 12 September and is responsible for developing Landcare within the Manawatu-Whanganui region. Alastair will work directly with farmers, landowners and community groups, providing the direction and support needed, plus he will build essential links with local authorities and key agencies.

Alastair is based in the Manawatu Federated Farmers building at 105 Queen Street, Palmerston North.

Alastair says; “I think the placement of the Landcare Trusts regional office alongside the Federated Farmers regional office is a positive move, reinforcing the strong relationship with our trustee organisation. Federated Farmers has a strong contact base and good support within this region, and will be a useful group to help the Trust move forward. I’m also sure Federated Farmers will see some use having me about the building!”.

Alastair brings with him a wealth of experience working on farms, with farmers, farming corporates and farm service providers within the Manawatu-Wanganui region.  He has come to the Trust after a three year period with Horizons Regional Council as a Consents Planner specialising in resource consents for farms.

Alastair notes; “The recent press about the Manawatu-Whanganui regions poor environmental record, especially regarding water quality, has painted a bleak picture. There is no doubt that the region has challenging times ahead to maintain or improve water quality."

He adds; “Having said that, there are heaps of farmers, organisations and communities who are committed to environmental enhancement within our region and I’m looking forward to working with them”.

When not at work Alastair enjoys working and relaxing on his lifestyle block, spending time with his wife and young son, visiting family and friends, getting out walking or hunting… or seeing the countryside on his motorcycle. 

We look forward to working with Alastair.