Hamish Watson

Chair, PBG

With over 12 years of hands-on experience owning & operating FreshChoice Picton supermarket, Hamish brings deep local knowledge and a strong commitment to community-driven business. As a dedicated advocate for regional growth and collaboration, Hamish chairs the Picton Business Group, fostering strong networks between local businesses, suppliers, and partners.

His passion lies in building sustainable, locally connected enterprises that support both the economy and the people of Picton. Through strategic leadership, operational excellence, and a community-first mindset, Hamish continues to contribute to the vibrancy and resilience of the region’s business landscape.

Tania Garbes

Treasurer, PBG

I’m a Chartered Accountant (CA), Business Advisor, and Director of Forward Accounting NZ, with over 25 years of experience in the accounting profession. I’ve been self-employed for the past 20 years, working closely with a wide range of small and medium businesses to help them improve their financial performance and plan for sustainable growth.

My husband and I moved to Picton three years ago after spending more than two decades in Hawkes Bay, and we’ve loved becoming part of this vibrant community. As Treasurer of the Picton Business Group, I bring strong financial management skills, practical business insight, and a passion for supporting local enterprise.

Scott Fuller

Secretary, PBG

Through his company Xception Ltd, Scott Fuller delivers business planning, financial modelling, marketing and strategic planning services to help businesses develop and grow, which is also a great foundation for advising Picton Business Group in his role as secretary and committee member. A resident of Totaranui/Queen Charlotte Sound, he works with companies throughout Marlborough and New Zealand.

Richard Briggs

With twenty years of experience as a commercial photographer in Marlborough, Richard has a reputation for delivering high quality commercial photography to many businesses in the region and throughout New Zealand. Living in Picton/Waitohi for 25 years, London-born Richard was previously a marketing executive and restaurateur, before making his passion for photography into his career in 2005. Richard and his wife have owned businesses in Picton since 2000 and have been active in helping local business since 2005 as volunteers, and by producing the Visit Picton Guide.

Barbara Speedy

Director of The Diversion Gallery, exhibiting nationally prominent contemporary NZ artists for 25 years. Previously I was a senior newspaper journalist reporting on local government issues, a business magazine Editor and communications consultant, for over 20 years. That knowledge has proved invaluable advocating for Picton businesses at council and in the media. I’ve lived in Picton with my partner since 1996, having renovated a (distinctive) century-old church as our home, and I’m passionate about this town and its future.

Ronald Ragen

Ronald Ragen has been involved with all aspects of computing since 1968, including software development, IT education, Consultancy. Since 1976 he has owned various businesses, and after moving to Marlborough 25 years ago he has provided computers services in the region, most recently with Marlborough Computer Solutions. He brings this experience and expertise to the Picton Business Group.

Nicci Fitzgerald

Since moving to Picton in 1996, I’ve embraced every aspect of the tourism sector, marrying my experience in governance and social services with my passion for hospitality. I opened Piwaka Lodge in December 2018 and launched The Boathouse Lodge in December 2024, both designed to offer clean, affordable accommodation that feels like home. When I'm not building a strong business community with a focus on social conscience, you can find me travelling or enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Ashleigh Mclean

Being part of the Picton Business Group committee for me is about sharing our town, helping it progress and thrive. Originally, I came to Picton for a summer holiday… little did I know I was going to fall in love. Within three days, I was back in Australia packing up my life and moved over, and I’ve not looked back!

Having my little handmade ice cream shop Only Scoop, I’m able to do what I love to do most, cooking and being a part of the hospitality industry, in a place I didn’t know I was going to love this much!