Shane McManaway

Board Chair

Shane McManaway brings extensive hands-on farming experience, business leadership and a deep commitment to supporting the next generation of future-ready agricultural professionals.

Based in the Wairarapa, Shane and his wife Lynnette own and operate Gold Creek Charolais and Deer farm and Ongaha Station - extensive sheep, beef and dairy enterprises. His diverse farming background spans multiple sectors and regions, giving him practical insight into the realities facing young farmers across New Zealand.

Beyond his own farming enterprises, Shane is widely respected across New Zealand and internationally for his contribution to agribusiness and leadership development. As Founder and Chair of the Zanda McDonald Award, he has built one of Australasia’s most prestigious agricultural leadership platforms, connecting emerging leaders with mentors and networks across the sector. Awarded a New Zealand Order of Merit for services to agriculture and the community, Shane combines grassroots credibility with strategic perspective and a strong understanding of the evolving commercial landscape in which modern agriculture operates.