Maicha Slade

Maicha Slade is a Key Machinery Operator at Apatu Farms, where he has worked his way up from an entry-level position to a senior permanent role, now serving as second in command within his sector. A standout contribution has been his involvement in developing the new 2D growing system alongside the division manager, as well as mentoring younger staff coming through the ranks. He brings Samoan values of respect, leadership and family to everything he does, and takes genuine pride in being part of growing world-class apples in Hawke's Bay.

Maicha is known for his energetic, solutions-focused approach, championing a work smart, not just work hard culture within his team. His fresh thinking and people-first mindset drive continuous improvement on the block, and he leads with the same family values instilled in him from a young age by his father, who first introduced him to horticulture. He is currently working towards his Primary ITO qualification.

Looking ahead, Maicha is focused on progressing into a management role, with the long-term goal of reaching a position like that of his current manager. For him, it is about proving that hard work and determination pay off, and building a career in horticulture that he and his family can be proud of.