Alexandra Reid

I’m Alex Reid, a 2019 graduate of the Pinnacle Programme. Originally from Wellington, I spent six years of my childhood in Asia before finishing school in Tauranga. Living overseas first sparked my interest in the primary industries. Seeing New Zealand’s agri-food products represented on the world stage made me proud and curious about the people and businesses behind them.

I’m passionate about showcasing NZ’s high-quality agri-food products internationally, while supporting the growth of thriving businesses across the agri-food supply chain.

After graduating from Massey University in 2020 with a Bachelor of AgriCommerce (majoring in International AgriBusiness), I’ve built a career in the kiwifruit industry. Spanning on-orchard and post-harvest operations, including supply chain management, project management, and continuous improvement. I am currently involved in the post-harvest sector of the kiwifruit industry.

A couple of years ago, I started a business with my husband and in-laws. I’m a director and shareholder of Good Crops, a family-owned kiwifruit orchard development and management business based in the Bay of Plenty. This has been a steep but rewarding learning curve and has given me hands-on experience in governance and strategy.

I applied for the Pinnacle Programme as it was an incredible opportunity to experience Spirit of Adventure and Outward Bound, two iconic programmes I had always wanted to take part in, as well as to grow through the mentoring and personal development opportunities on offer. My Pinnacle experience has been empowering, connecting me with inspiring peers, developing my leadership and teamwork skills, and pushing me well beyond my comfort zone.

Pinnacle has given me lifelong friendships, invaluable mentorship, and the confidence to dream big, a reminder, in the words of Kurt Hahn, that “there is more in you than you think.”