A bit about me

Inspirational Moment in time:

In 2014 I took a year’s leave without pay to go to Te Wananga o Raukawa in Ōtaki, to do a full Te Reo immersion programme. This opportunity changed my life. I gained a new appreciation for spirituality when learning mōteatea, waiata and karakia, and gained a deeper level of respect for our natural elements such as our rivers, mountains, and our land. It is critical we look after our planet, and it starts in our backyard!

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Career:

I have had an incredible career to date. I have worked at Freyberg High School in Palmerston North, Avondale College in Auckland (dean), Ōtaki College (Assistant Principal), Wellington Girls’ College (Deputy Principal), Taita College (Principal), and currently a Hutt City Councillor.

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Whilst living in the USA, Santa Barbara, I worked for the City Council as a Gang Prevention Specialist (teaching in schools, working with Police, and also giving seminars to the community around Gang awareness). 

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I have a Masters in Secondary School Leadership.

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Sports:

From a young age I loved all sports and in high school pretty much played every sport. I was fortunate enough to represent Taranaki in Athletics, Basketball and Netball (captain in my last year at high school)

Once going to University in Palmerston North, I represented Manawatu in the Senior Womens’ Basketball team for two years and the Senior Womens’ Netball team for four years (captain for 2 years).

These days I am a bit slower, but I love staying fit with the odd jog, and walks in the hutt.

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Acting:

All through my high school years I was heavily involved with school plays and musical productions. After my first two years of teaching I did some acting in New Zealand and overseas which included; small parts on Shortland Street, live theatre productions and some short films.

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Board and Governance Experience:

New Zealand Secondary School Sport 

College Sport Wellington Principals

Victoria University Masters in Secondary School Leadership

Youth Inspire

Hutt Valley Activity Centre Principals group.

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I am ready to serve our community as Mayor. Let me show you what I can do!