11 November 2025 | Auckland

The Halberg Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of members to its Executive Board, strengthening its leadership with a wealth of experience across sport, business, governance, and innovation.

The Executive Board provides governance, strategic oversight, and guidance to ensure Halberg continues to deliver on its mission of ensuring all young people with physical disabilities have access to sport and recreation.

Executive Board Appointments

Appointment – Miles Hurrell (Auckland)

Halberg welcomes Miles Hurrell, Chief Executive Officer of Fonterra Co-operative Group. Since becoming CEO in 2018, Miles has led Fonterra through a strategic reset, sharpening its focus on sustainability, innovation, and New Zealand’s pasture-based dairy excellence. With more than 25 years of leadership experience, Miles has been recognised as CEO of the Year at the 2024 Deloitte Top 200 Awards and received the Leadership Award at the 2024 INFINZ Awards.

Appointment – Nick Astwick (Auckland)

Nick Astwick, CEO of Southern Cross Medical Care Society, joins the Executive Board with more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. Prior to Southern Cross, Nick spent 14 years at Kiwibank, including as Chief Operating Officer. Passionate about purpose-driven leadership, Nick is committed to helping New Zealand enterprises realise their potential and create lasting community impact.

Appointment – Susan Peterson (Auckland)

Susan Peterson is an experienced company director and business leader, with a strong focus on helping organisations accelerate their impact through technology, innovation, and culture. She is Chair of Vista Group and Kiwibank and serves as an independent director of Xero, Mercury, and Craigs Investment Partners. Susan has previously served on the boards of Arvida Group, ASB Bank, and Trustpower, and has contributed to several not-for-profit boards including Global Women and IHC. She holds Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws degrees from the University of Otago.

“We are excited to welcome Susan, Miles and Nick to the Halberg board. Collectively they bring a wealth of executive and governance experience but equally as important are committed to the purpose of Halberg.” says George Bridgewater NMZM, Chair of Halberg Foundation.

“I would also like to thank Dean Bracewell and Duane Kale for their many years of experience, support and leadership contributed to the Halberg organisation.”

Trustee Appointments

Alongside the Executive Board announcements, Halberg is pleased to confirm the following Trustee appointments across New Zealand:

Auckland

  • Carolyn Steele (co-opted appointment) – Former Chair of Halberg Executive Board and director of major NZ organisations.
  • Will Somerville (appointment) – Former professional cricketer, Chartered Accountant, and Wealth Management Advisor.
  • Alice Mew (appointment) – Investment professional with global experience and governance expertise.
  • Michael Boggs (appointment) – CEO of NZME, experienced in CFO and governance roles, focused on transparency and inclusion.

Christchurch

  • Dame Sophie Pascoe (appointment) – Eleven-time Paralympic gold medallist, advocate for Para sport, and inspiring role model.

Otago

  • Gemma McCaw (appointment) – Former Black Sticks hockey player, founder of Ladies Who Venture, focused on health, wellness, and resilience.
  • Silken Laumann (appointment) – Four-time Olympian and World Champion rower, leading youth-focused mental health initiatives.
  • Rowena Davenport (appointment) – Professional director with a strong background in sport, community, and inclusion, first female Chair of Otago Rugby.

Our Trustees play a vital role in connecting communities to Halberg’s mission, supporting inclusive sport opportunities across New Zealand.