MEDIA RELEASE
Thursday 28 May 2026
Natural Health Products NZ has recognised Peter Lehrke with its Outstanding Contribution to the Industry Award, acknowledging more than 30 years of leadership, innovation and service to New Zealand’s natural health products sector.
The award was presented at the Natural Health Products NZ Summit 2026 Gala Dinner and Awards Night, where the association recognised Peter’s long-standing contribution to both the organisation and the wider industry. Peter has served on the Natural Health Products NZ board for 23 years, providing sustained leadership, practical insight and a deep commitment to the future of the sector.
Across a career spanning more than three decades, Peter has built an outstanding reputation in dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and product development. His experience includes formulation, manufacturing, project management and senior leadership roles with organisations including Douglas Pharmaceuticals, GMP Pharmaceuticals, New Image Group and his consultancy, Pharmatech. Most recently, he established PharmaNZ in Hamilton, a contract manufacturing business created to provide a collaborative, high-quality, end-to-end product development and manufacturing partner for the natural health products sector.
Through his technical expertise, practical leadership and willingness to support others, Peter has helped strengthen manufacturing capability in New Zealand, champion quality and innovation, and build confidence in the sector’s future. His contribution has extended well beyond any single business, influencing industry standards, supporting sector development and helping businesses bring new products to market.
Natural Health Products NZ General Manager Kerry Warn said the award recognises not only Peter’s impressive career, but also the generosity and vision he has brought to the industry over many years.
“Peter has made an extraordinary contribution to our sector through his leadership, technical knowledge and enduring commitment to helping the industry grow and succeed. He has been a valued supporter of Natural Health Products NZ for more than two decades, and this award reflects the respect and gratitude he has earned across the industry,” said Warn.
Peter was unable to attend the event in person as he is currently travelling in Europe with his wife, Linda. A video message from Peter acknowledging the award was shared on the night.
ENDS
For further information, contact:
Kerry Warn
General Manager
Natural Health Products NZ
+64 21 327 778
kerry@naturalhealthproducts.nz