So when his brother, Matthew Snodgrass, (Hall 2007 – 2011) presented him with an exciting business venture, Antony eagerly embraced it.

Together in 2020, the Snodgrass brothers embarked on a journey as the co-owners of Koroneiki Developments, a flourishing native planting business. Year after year, they plant over 180,000 native plants, proudly declaring themselves experts in the realm of native flora. Their plantings are exclusively on non-productive farmland and they collaborate with farmers who share their vision of leaving a legacy on the land they steward.

Matthew's journey into native planting began while he was working in Canada planting trees to finance his overseas experience. When the Covid-19 pandemic struck, he found himself back in New Zealand, where he recognised an opportunity in the local planting industry. Today, Matthew and Antony employ a small but dedicated team of men and women who gather, undeterred by any weather conditions, at the nursery in Te Awamutu each day at 7:30 a.m. The team's meticulous attention to detail ensures Matthew and Antony's long-term vision of growing their native plants in-house at the nursery is on track.

In their own words, "It's funny how the St Paul's community has woven itself into the fabric of our business. From Collegians who have become our loyal customers to the young Max Robinson (School 2018-2022), who is now a valuable member of our team." Their business thrives largely through word of mouth, a testament to the quality of their work.

Fond memories of St Paul's include the great house culture and their experiences at Tihoi Venture School. Paul Wilson, their Housemaster, and Craig Hardman, their hockey coach, remain key figures in their recollections. Antony sums it up, saying, "It's the people you meet and the valuable connections you build along the way that truly matter."

Reflecting on their entrepreneurial journey, they admit, "Starting a business is tough, and you can never know it all." Their advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: "Just take the leap, it’s worth it."

Matt and Antony are on the lookout for exceptional team members, “If you are part of the St Paul's Community or even a Year 13 student seeking work experience, we encourage you to reach out and give us a call.”