Our Team

Sandra Hazlehurst

Born and raised in Hastings, Sandra Hazlehurst is a lifelong champion for the district and its people. She served six years as a Hastings district councillor before becoming the district’s first female mayor in 2017, a role she held until 2025. Throughout her public service, Sandra focused on connecting urban and rural communities, supporting economic development, creating vibrant public places and investing in resilient infrastructure. As chair of the Tōmoana Showgrounds Trust on behalf of Hastings District Council, she brings a region-wide network, extensive local knowledge and a passionate commitment to Heretaunga Hastings.

Simon Collin

Simon Collin represents the Hawke’s Bay A&P Society on the Tōmoana Showgrounds Trust. A successful Central Hawke’s Bay farmer, Simon operates a highly regarded Charolais breeding programme and brings extensive agricultural and governance experience to the role. As a past President of the Hawke’s Bay A&P Society, he also holds a deep understanding of the Showgrounds’ history, its many users and its longstanding importance to the region.

Erena Tomoana

Justin Leydesdorff

Justin brings more than 24 years of senior leadership and governance experience across the public and private sectors. He has a proven track record in strategic leadership, financial management and the governance of major community facilities, with extensive experience overseeing large-scale assets, venues and commercial operations. As Chair of New Zealand Rugby League and a director of the International Rugby League, he provides strong governance and commercial expertise. Justin also serves on the Hawke's Bay Hawks board, contributing to its commercial strategy, and has successfully established and grown a family investment business specialising in business, property and equities.

Matt Jones

Matt is a Chartered Accountant with more than 20 years of senior executive leadership experience, including over 17 years as Chief Executive of NW Group, Australasia's leading live events and venue technology company. He brings extensive expertise in financial governance, strategic planning, commercial partnerships and the management of major venues and events. As Vice Chair of the New Zealand Events Association, Matt contributes to industry strategy, financial stewardship and sector development. Matt also brings a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusive design, alongside a collaborative governance approach focused on ensuring significant community assets are financially sustainable, well-managed and positioned for long-term success.

Ike Baker

Ike Baker is the Venue Manager at Tōmoana Showgrounds, overseeing the day-to-day operation, development and future direction of the venue. With a background spanning agriculture, events and equine science, Ike brings a strong mix of practical knowledge, strategic thinking and community focus to the role. He is passionate about growing the Showgrounds as a leading regional events venue while protecting its history, character and importance to the Hawke’s Bay community.

Ross Williams

Ross Williams brings a wealth of practical experience to his role as Groundsman at Tōmoana Showgrounds. After eight years as Groundsman for the Hawke’s Bay A&P Society, Ross transferred to the Showgrounds team following the sale of the property. With an extensive background in farming, fencing and shearing, he has the skills and knowledge to tackle almost any job across the site. Whether it is maintaining the grounds, repairing infrastructure or solving an unexpected problem, there is very little Ross cannot turn his hand to.

Mike Blackmore

Mike Blackmore first became involved with Tōmoana Showgrounds as a volunteer and quickly developed such a strong connection to the place that he joined the permanent team. Like Ross, Mike brings an extensive agricultural background and a wide range of practical skills to his role. His strong work ethic, hands-on experience and genuine love for the Showgrounds make him a valued member of the team.