he Local Food Systems Research Cluster is composed of like-minded researchers with an interest in food systems. This cluster takes a broader and inclusive view of food systems that includes wine and novel culinary systems. It aims to generate impactful research that highlight various aspects of New Zealand food and wine products.

Ōtautahi Christchurch’s sustainable economic development agency. Together we’re shaping an economy where people and places thrive. Our work is focused on making Ōtautahi Christchurch a better place to live, work and play by improving the city’s productivity, liveability and attractiveness.

Dr Ali Reza Nazmi is a lecturer in the School of Product Design at the University of Canterbury, specialising in human-centred design and innovative product development. His research explores the intersection of design, technology, and user experience, with a focus on creating solutions that are both functional and socially impactful. Dr Nazmi teaches across design practice and methodology, helping students develop the creative and analytical skills needed to bring new ideas to life.

Gareth Innes is Senior Manager at PolyNatural, where he leads commercial strategy and partnerships for the company’s innovative, plant-based crop protection technologies. With a background spanning agribusiness, product development, and sustainability, Gareth works closely with growers, industry partners, and researchers to bring natural, science-driven solutions to market. He is committed to advancing agricultural practices that improve crop quality, reduce environmental impact, and support a more sustainable global food system.

Dr Rob Kelly is the Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Tertiary Extracts Ōtautahi (TEO Ltd), a Christchurch-based company advancing natural product extraction and bioprocessing technologies. With a background in biotechnology and applied chemistry, Rob leads TEO’s research and innovation programmes, focusing on sustainable, high-value extraction methods for the bioeconomy. His work bridges science and industry, driving the development of scalable solutions that add value to New Zealand’s natural resources.

Melissa is a farmer, technologist, entrepreneur, social scientist, futurist, and high-performance athlete. A natural synthesiser of ideas, she connects insights across science, technology, ecology, and human behaviour to reveal new opportunities and solutions. Drawing on her diverse background and multidisciplinary training, Melissa explores how reconnecting with our land, bodies, and potential can help build a more prosperous, healthy, and fulfilling world.

Professor Travis Glare is CEO of Lincoln Agritech and Professor of Applied Entomology at Lincoln University. He is also co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Biosouth Ltd and Managing Director of Agroceutical Products NZ Ltd. With a background in insect pathology, molecular biology, and biopesticide development, Travis has extensive experience in research leadership, commercialisation, and biotechnology innovation.