Dr Dave Leathwick sadly passed away on the 27th of December 2025.

Dave was a recipient of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production McMeeken Award in 2010 - A link to the citation for his award can be found here.

The following was circulated following his passing by Dr Christian Sauermann Team Leader of the Bioeconomy Science Institute (Formerly AgResearch) Parasitology Team. 

Dave joined the Parasitology Team at Flock House in 1991 and dedicated more than three decades to parasitology research for the benefit of New Zealand’s pastoral sector. A major focus of his work was growing our understanding of managing livestock parasites and drench resistance. He was passionate about high-quality science and transferring it into evidence-based, practical recommendations for farmers. Fundamentally, Dave’s work was always focused on New Zealand farmers and the long-term sustainability of the pastoral sector.

Dave’s contribution was widely recognised beyond AgResearch, including the McMeekan Memorial Award recognising his leadership in understanding and managing drench resistance, and being named Primary Industries Champion at the Primary Industries New Zealand Awards for his “unwavering commitment to the rural sector”. He was also recognised internationally for his expertise in anthelmintic resistance, including contributions to international expert workshops and regulatory discussions.

To many of us, Dave was an exceptional mentor who always made time for people, backed his students and colleagues, and took genuine pride in helping others succeed. On a personal note, Dave was my PhD supervisor, later my colleague, and although I eventually became his manager, he remained a mentor and friend throughout. Many of us will feel his loss, both professionally and personally.

One thing he would often remind us was: “Science is a team sport, don’t let your ego get in the way of your success”.