My Net Worth: Richard Burke, chief executive of LeaderBrand

My Net Worth: Richard Burke, chief executive of LeaderBrand
Richard Burke says he has never been the smartest guy in the room "and I like that. It's when you go in thinking you know everything that you get yourself into trouble."
Gregor Thompson
Richard Burke has worked with LeaderBrand for more than 30 years. He started as a tractor driver in Tairāwhiti Gisborne after returning to New Zealand from overseas. Under the guidance of founder Murray McPhail, he moved through various roles within the business, including planter and harvester, in production and as farm manager. When McPhail stood down about 13 years ago to enjoy the finer things in life, Burke moved into the role of chief executive.LeaderBrand’s four farms in Pukekohe, Matamata, Makauri (Poverty Bay) and Chertsey (...

More The Life

A bright light among Auckland's accommodation offerings
The Life Review

A bright light among Auckland's accommodation offerings

Inner-city Hotel Indigo is also dog-friendly. 

Helen van Berkel 14 Sep 2025
My Net Worth: Matt Wong, iFly CEO
The Life

My Net Worth: Matt Wong, iFly CEO

“I don't want to see local government shaped by a whole bunch of oldies.” 

Lamborghini’s noisy play for attention
The Life

Lamborghini’s noisy play for attention

It has a radical aerodynamic shape and a top speed over 200 mph (322kph).

Review: Bar Albert is a notch above the others
The Life

Review: Bar Albert is a notch above the others

Bar Albert brings sophistication to downtown Auckland.

Helen van Berkel 07 Sep 2025