New Chair Matt Clarke and Members Appointed to Game Animal Council from July 2026

Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager has confirmed four new appointments to the Game Animal Council, including a new Chair.

Matthew (Matt) Clarke has been appointed Chair for a two-year term from 1 July 2026. He is a current Council member and has extensive governance and leadership experience, as well as a strong background in hunting and the outdoor sector.

Mr Clarke has already made a valuable contribution to the Council and brings strong governance capability, sector knowledge, and continuity to the role, Mr Meager says.

Hon Paula Bennett, Emeritus Professor Bruce McKenzie, and Jim Goodall have been appointed as members, alongside the reappointment of Callum Sheridan. All member appointments are for three-year terms beginning 1 July 2026.

Ms Bennett brings significant governance and public sector leadership experience, including as a former Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand and current Chair of Pharmac. She has a strong understanding of statutory decision-making and stakeholder engagement, Mr Meager says.

Professor McKenzie has deep expertise in conservation science and land management, alongside governance experience and a practical understanding of hunting and ecological systems.

Mr Goodall offers strong commercial and governance experience from the primary production and wild game sectors, with a solid understanding of supply chains and the realities of hunting and harvesting.

Mr Sheridan’s reappointment provides valuable continuity, alongside his practical hunting sector knowledge leadership within the New Zealand Deerstalkers’ Association.

The Game Animal Council provides advice to the Minister and works with the Department of Conservation, hunters, and landowners to support safe, sustainable hunting and improve hunting opportunities.

I’d also like to acknowledge the significant contribution of outgoing Chair Grant Dodson, along with outgoing members John Cook and Andrew Simpson. I thank them both for their service and commitment and wish them well for the future, Mr Meager says.