Global Experience & Local Passion

Tim Hanrahan brings global experience and local passion to the team. Our newest member of the South Island team. Since joining us last November, he’s hit the ground running. Tim comes from a strong agricultural background, with valuable international experience - not to mention a genuine passion for the industry.

Raised in Rakaia, Tim’s dad is involved in the industry, his mum works as a nurse, and both sets of grandparents farmed locally - so it was a natural pathway. Much of his childhood was spent on a lifestyle block and visiting family farms, helping shape his interest in agriculture from an early age.  “My grandparents, alongside Mum and Dad, were all a huge influence on my sister and me,” he says.

"I studied at Lincoln University, completing a Bachelor of Commerce in Agriculture and Accounting. It was a great start to adult life, I met a lot of people, and it was great for networking too.”

Tell me about your first job“

Talleys Ashburton as part of their frozen vegetable division was my first full-time role, where I spent four years — first as a field representative, then stepping into a leadership role as the agronomy team lead. Managing both seasonal and full-time staff provided a strong grounding in people leadership. I had a couple of great managers who were amazing mentors. I really enjoyed my time there.”

Your partner and OE

“Claire and I were keen to see the world, so we decided to dive into an OE and moved to London, where we spent two years living and working in the UK. It pushed us well outside our comfort zones — at times without jobs or accommodation — but it was hugely rewarding.”

While overseas, Tim worked across a range of roles that gave him insight into agriculture on a global scale. In Kent, he was involved in operations where crops were grown, packed, and sent directly to supermarkets — highlighting the scale, efficiency, and immediacy of UK supply chains.

He spent time working on farm and also working for a fruit importer as an operations assistant, gaining exposure to logistics, supply chains, and the inner workings of supermarket procurement. It was a great insight into commercial decision-making and industry competitiveness and left a lasting impression.

“Over the course of our two-year OE, Claire and I managed to explore most of Europe, along with trips to Asia and Dubai. Our favourite destinations were Croatia or Italy — its relaxed lifestyle, beaches, and great social atmosphere really stood out.”

How did you get your job at Seed & Field?

“I knew Roger well from my Talleys days and had kept in touch. The timing worked out really well — when I mentioned we were thinking of returning home, I got in touch with Seed & Field’s MD, Paul Lysaght, who offered me an agronomy role.”

“I’m still in the learning stage of my role — more in the passenger seat with the senior agronomists. It’s a great way to learn, and I feel very lucky to be around such a driven, passionate team. They all have expertise in their areas and complement each other well. Then Jeff and Vicki in the store/warehouse finishes things off with their organisation and drive to deliver the best service to our growers. They’re a great team to be a part of.”

“I’m currently exposed to a wide variety of crops, soils, and farming approaches, and I’m really enjoying the diversity the role offers. Every crop is different, every farm is different, and every grower has their own way of doing things. There’s always something new to learn.”

How’s it going being back home?

“To be honest, coming home has been quite an adjustment. Overseas, we were taken out of our comfort zone every day — it was great to have Claire to lean on and do everything with. It’s given me a real appreciation for what people coming into New Zealand experience, and I feel empathetic towards the adjustments they go through when moving away or returning home.”

“Europe was amazing, and it was easy to get immersed in its fast pace. In fact, the trip was a big highlight of my life so far. You could travel anywhere for a few quid and end up in a completely new social scene — I do miss that. However, New Zealand is an amazing place to live and we are happy to be back.”

Now back home, Tim keeps busy with rugby, golf, and social cricket, as well as spending time with friends and following sport. He and Claire are now focused on putting down roots and working towards buying a home on the outskirts of Christchurch.

What about your future?

“I’m motivated by my passion for agriculture — particularly in the vegetable and arable sectors — and I’m keen to play a role in the industry’s ongoing development and see New Zealand Ag thrive.”

After the fast-paced and often unpredictable experience of living overseas, Tim has a strong appreciation for what New Zealand offers.  “It’s an amazing place to live, with lots of opportunities and a great place to build a future.”

With a solid foundation, global perspective, and a willingness to learn, Tim is a valuable addition to the team — and one to watch in the years ahead.