General Manger

Ashley Shadbolt

Born and raised in Sheffield, Canterbury, Ashley’s passion for the natural environment has been a defining aspect of his life and career. After attending Darfield High School, he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Conservation and Ecology at Lincoln University, where he graduated with First-Class Honours.

With extensive experience in land restoration and vegetation establishment, Ashley’s career spans multiple roles that highlight his expertise in environmental management. His previous experience includes overseeing large-scale landsacping projects in the South Island and hydroseeding and sediment and erosion control.

Throughout his career, Ashley has demonstrated a strong ability to understand clients’ needs and deliver innovative, solutions-based outcomes. His focus on sustainability, along with his collaborative approach, aligns perfectly with Southern Woods’ commitment to environmental stewardship and customer service.

Director, Business Development & Marketing Manager

Rico Mannall

Rico is a Director of Southern Woods, and our Business Development & Marketing Manager. He has over a decade of experience in the nursery industry, working across many departments in the nursery.

His current role involves managing growth and development opportunities at Southern Woods. Rico works closely with clients, key stakeholders, and industry partners on plant supply projects around the South Island. He’s also responsible for managing marketing across the retail/wholesale/online business.

A University of Canterbury Commerce & Arts graduate, Rico has a keen passion for design, innovation, and sustainability. He’s always on the lookout for new ideas within the nursery sector and beyond.

On the odd occasion you find him not working, he’s probably off planning his next adventure in a national park somewhere, or playing social sport with a lot more enthusiasm than talent. 

Winner – 2019 NZPPI Young Achiever

2nd – New Zealand Young Horticulturalist of the Year 2019

• Winner – AGMARDT Innovation Award
• Winner – Fruitfed Supplies Leadership Award
• Winner – Young Horticulturist Competition Best Speech

Plant Centre Manager

Alex Dowie

Alex joined Southern Woods as a Plant Centre Assistant in 2019. With six years of experience in the retail plant centre, he takes pride in offering expert advice and helping customers find the perfect plant for their space.

As Plant Centre Manager, Alex now plays a key role in staffing, sales, purchasing, and cultivating a positive team culture. His deep knowledge of plants, particularly native species, drives his commitment to supporting biodiversity and a thriving ecosystem.

Outside of work, Alex channels his competitive energy into kickboxing and social pool competitions. He’s also an avid reader and nature lover, often exploring the stunning landscapes of the South Island. Alex lives in Doyleston with his beautiful Rottweiler, Freya, who’s been known to make the occasional guest appearance at the plant centre.

Production Manager

Emma Jarvis

Emma is our Production Manager.  She started here after completing a Bachelor of Horticultural Science at Lincoln University in 2005, and after working in a range of departments over the years, she has settled in her current role.

Her main role involves looking after the inventory in the nursery, ensuring stock numbers are perfect for the sales team. This is becoming a full-time job as the nursery grows larger each year!

She also looks after the Health and Safety of the team and the company and is often out on her red bike with a red helmet surveying the site ensuring everyone is behaving and working safely.

Emma loves baking, and we tend to love her baking too! When she’s not busy at work you’ll find her relaxing with her husband and Otis the cat.