Westland District Candidates

I am a dynamic and committed leader with over 15 years of experience across governance, community development, and legal advisory roles. I grew up on the Coast my mother raised on the Coast Road. Of Tūhoe, Ngāti Whare, Ngāti Manawa, and Ngāti Kahungunu descent, I bring a strong sense of responsibility to serve my communities, preserve our cultural heritage, and pursue sustainable solutions to the social and economic challenges we face.

Most recently, I served as the Chief Executive of Westland Rural Education Activities Programme (WestREAP) in Hokitika, where I led significant organisational change, expanded the delivery of community services, and championed initiatives. I also co-founded Te Hono o ngā Waka, a kaupapa Māori organisation focused on local solutions for community wellbeing.

My background in law includes advising on multi-million-dollar renewable energy projects at Mubadala Investment Company PJSC in Abu Dhabi, and working on complex commercial transactions during my time at Russell McVeagh in Auckland. I hold a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Waikato, and I am fluent in both Te Reo Māori and Spanish.

I remain deeply passionate about cultural advocacy, governance, and supporting the long-term commercial development of Te Tai o Poutini. If I was elected as a trustee for Development West Coast, I would bring a unique blend of legal, strategic, and cultural expertise, alongside a strong grounding in community-based mahi. In my personal time, I enjoy Waka Ama, revitalising our tikanga, and spending time with my tamariki and whānau.

Born and raised in Hokitika, I am hugely passionate about the West Coast and its people. I believe it’s a real strength that I have been actively involved in business here, since 2008, which gives me firsthand insight into the challenges businesses face on the West Coast.

As the current Westland Elected Trustee on DWC, I bring a strong foundation in governance. I also serve on the Trust’s People and Culture Subcommittee.

I have recently completed both the Company Directors Course and the Financial Essentials for Board Directors through the NZ Institute of Directors. I'm also a graduate of the DWC Governance Programme.

Prior to my current role, I was a long-standing member of Destination Hokitika. In 2013, I co-founded Love Hokitika, a subcommittee dedicated to Shop Local initiatives and promotion.

I believe in DWCs vision of "a thriving, resilient West Coast Economy that delivers intergenerational prosperity and supports the well being of our people and communities." I am committed to managing and protecting the Fund, ensuring its perpetuity for future generations.