Biography

Emma Boase, Horticulture New Zealand – Kāi Tahu/Kāti Māmoe

Emma grew up in a city but gave the primary industries a go when she realised how diverse, exciting, and global the industry is. That decision has catapulted her around the world studying, consulting, researching, and teaching aspects of the food system in Asia, Europe, and North America. Emma’s specialty lies in applying behavioural economics to a wide range of situations in the food and fibre sector, to help producers, marketers, and consumers make better decisions.

Emma holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness and Food Marketing from Lincoln University, and a Master’s degree in Agricultural and Applied Economics from the University of Missouri, USA. Her research into food marketing and consumer behaviour has won multiple international awards. After Covid disrupted her PhD study in Denmark, Emma returned to New Zealand to the new role of People Capability Manager at HortNZ. In this role Emma’s key focus is ensuring horticulture is a career of choice for New Zealanders.