Andy Ellis is looking forward to working to improve Canterbury's ecosystems. The retired All Black grew up working on his parent's tomato farm in Canterbury and studied Landscape Architecture before rugby took over.  

“I am passionate about Canterbury and its ecology. There is something special about our place and I am excited about this fund and what we can collectively achieve,” said Ellis. 

Ellis is an advocate for taking a team approach. 

“I know from my own experience that most landowners, whether they are large or small, are always looking at ways to improve what they are doing, and I am particularly pleased that this fund will support farmers as well as environmental groups.”  

Ellis will help raise the fund's profile and is excited to share the stories of innovative solutions that come from it.