“What am I doing here? How did I get here?” – those are the questions running through my mind as I settle into day three with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa.

 

Only a year ago, my family of three set out on an incredible adventure: a campervan journey across Europe. We travelled through 26 countries and covered more than 25,000 km — and yes, we’re still talking to each other! From starting out in the Netherlands to skiing in the French Alps, detouring trips away from the van to Lapland in Finland, London, Santorini (from Athens), and Rome (leaving the van in Vienna), we made it as far as Budapest. Our grand finale event was in Barcelona, cheering on Team New Zealand for a “three-Pete” as they clinched the America’s Cup for a third time.

 

When we returned to New Zealand last November, I resumed my role as General Manager of the New Zealand Sailing Trust (NZST) — guardians of Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand, the legendary yachts once campaigned by Sir Peter Blake in the Whitbread Round the World Race. The Trust operates youth development voyages aboard these vessels, helping young people build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.

 

(Quick plug: if your organisation is looking for a unique team-building experience, event, or incentive, both vessels are available for charter — with all proceeds going directly back into youth programmes. Feel free to get in touch with me and I can connect you)

 

After 13 months abroad, I realised my own compass had shifted. Navigating a new direction for NZST no longer felt like my next journey, so I stepped away earlier this year — with no clear plan for what was next. It was an uncertain but liberating time, and I was excited to think differently about where my skills and passions could make the most impact.

 

Motivation for the Role

I was invited to apply for this role at Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa, and I was instantly intrigued. Exploring the AMA website really spoke to me — the purpose, the people, and the opportunity to support growth and innovation within New Zealand’s manufacturing sector.

 

Meeting Catherine during an informal conversation sealed it; her enthusiasm and drive for something she feels strongly about, and I left that meeting genuinely excited to be part of AMA.

 

With a background in careers, programme development, and operational leadership, I could see clear alignment between my experience and AMA’s mission to strengthen capability and innovation across Aotearoa.

 

First Impressions

Three days in, my first impressions have been incredibly positive, even though I don’t know anything about manufacturing. Catherine is fantastic to work with, she is passionate and is great at keeping my inbox full — I’m looking forward to learning from her and working together to achieve big, audacious goals for AMA.

 

I’m also delighted with our Auckland space, at Outset Ventures  — it’s vibrant, welcoming, and full of community energy. While I’m new to the world of manufacturing and technology, I’m energised by the challenge and excited to learn.

 

A Little About Me

My family and I are always looking for our next adventure. When we can, you’ll often find us aboard our cruising yacht exploring the Hauraki Gulf and the islands around Auckland. We enjoy visiting family in Christchurch and the surrounds, or spending time in Waihi Beach & Coromandel whenever we’re not sailing.

 

I still miss the NZST crew and the inspiring stories we heard every week, and I remain deeply proud of what we achieved over the past seven years. But it was time for a new adventure — and I’m thrilled that this next chapter is here, with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa.