I am a 6th generation NZ born Pākeha of Welsh, Scottish, German and English decent, born and raised in Ahuriri, beneath the cliffs of Mata-rua-hou, beside Te Whanganui-a-Orotu the land of Ngati Kahungunu ki Heretaunga. Te Matau-a-Maui is the resting place of my heart and the place in which I am home. 

I have been actively involved in the Community and Social Service Sector for nearly 30 years in a wide variety of roles. My background and formal qualifications are in the area of Social Work and Community Development both as a practitioner and an educator. I have 30 years experience in Local Government, Community Organisations, Education and Volunteer Sector with a range of roles from frontline delivery, to Management, Consultant and Governance experience. 

I am the very proud mother of my amazing son who has taught me the most profound lessons of life as we have navigated these 17 years together.

I am a compulsive learner with an insatiable appetite for understanding. A creator of ideas, solutions, and opportunities in the complexities of our world. I am an idealist at heart who believes that we can work together for the greater good. I am an activist and disruptor who is not afraid to challenge injustice and “isms” in systems and structures.