Cover image left-right: Council members Matt Clarke, Pete Swann, Eugene Rewi, Callum Sheridan, Andrew Simpson
NZ Game Animal Council (GAC) welcomes the appointment of three new members to the Council by Minister for Hunting and Fishing Hon
James Meager, and the appointment of current Council member Matt Clarke as Chair.
The new Game Animal Council members are Jim Goodall, Emeritus Professor Bruce McKenzie, and Paula Bennett.
Council member and President of the NZDA Callum Sheridan has been reappointed. Outgoing Chair Grant Dodson and members Andrew Simpson and John Cook are retiring from Council.
“I’m humbled to be appointed to Chair the GAC. The Council has made significant progress toward securing hunting and game animal management for the future, and it’s a privilege to be part of that story,” says Matt Clarke, who is also the current Chief Executive of Wellington Airport.
“I’d like to acknowledge outgoing Chair Grant Dodson’s six years of service. Throughout his tenure, Grant has provided steady leadership, sound judgement and a strong sense of purpose. He has helped the Council grow into a mature statutory body and be in a stronger and more capable position to carry out its functions.
“Grant has consistently advocated for the Council’s statutory role while maintaining constructive relationships across government, conservation and hunting sectors. This has significantly helped the Council in working collaboratively to develop New Zealand’s first Herds of Special Interest for consideration by the Minister.
“On behalf of Council, staff and the wider hunting community, thank you Grant for your leadership and commitment to both the GAC and New Zealand hunting sector.
Clarke also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Council members John Cook and Andrew Simpson.
“John has been a tireless advocate for hunters and game animal management through his practical approach and sound judgement. Through his roles as President of the Central North Island Sika Foundation and co-owner of the New Zealand Sika Show, John has provided an invaluable connection between the Council and everyday hunters.
“Andrew’s contribution has also been significant, bringing fresh thinking, legal expertise and a commitment to continually improving the Council’s governance practices.
“Grant, John and Andrew all came to the Council from different backgrounds and areas of expertise, contributing diversity of views. Together, these views support robust governance and strengthen outcomes for the GAC and the wider sector.
“I look forward to working with our new and remaining Council members over the next few years to ensure we continue their good work.”
New appointments and retirements take effect from 1 July 2026.
See the announcement by the Minister for Hunting and Fishing here.