Date and place of birth Whangarei, Northland, NZ
Ethnicity New Zealander (Pakeha)
Current residence and electorate : East Coast Bays
Electorate Rodney
Educational and vocational qualifications BSc (Bachelor of Science Auckland University), PG Dip Grad Mgt (Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Massey University) and Master of Management from Massey University
Current occupation Just finished Masters so full time on the campaign trail and part time business consulting.
Previous occupations Scientist, Marine Biologist on Deep Sea Trawlers for Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Entrepreneur establishing Sunsail Boat Charters in Auckland, Bay of Islands and Tonga, Business consulting and strategic planning for businesses in areas such as Organic farming, dairy farming and Tourism based companies. Marketing of TV, Radio and print media. Venture Capital. Management and leadership training, Animal husbandry co-ordinator and part-time manager at Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium.
Other work experience (inc. voluntary/unpaid) Work with the Sustainable Electricity Association of New Zealand (SEANZ) to promote renewable energy.
Community connections Worked with disadvantaged children at the Sir Peter Blake Marine Education and recreation centre, providing leadership and outdoor pursuits. Worked with Salvation Army in Drug and Alcohol rehabilitation programmes. Community work through church groups. Sports coaching in netball and sailing.
Policy Interests/Expertise My vision is for New Zealands energy supply to become self sufficient through the widespread adoption of, implementation of and policy making to ensure more sustainable and renewable energy sources. I have researched the solar industry extensively as part of my masters degree and believe solar energy can play a key part in reducing our dependence on carbon based fuels used to generate our a large proportion of our electricity. The uptake of this Greentech/Cleantech can also enhance the security of our electricity supply system. Something which as recently as this week has been raised by the Environment Commissioner. We need to also mitigate the affects we have had and continue to have upon our waterways and our marine environment as a result of our land based activities. This could be helped through the use of organic farming practices and developing of Green businesses.
My broad political issues I believe New Zealand can become a sustainable society, taking into consideration the three pillars of sustainability....economic, environmental and social responsibility, which are all interrelated. These 3 pillars can then provide a platform for sustainable development, which can lead to more employment and a better quality of life for all New Zealanders.
Additional information I have lived and worked in various countries around the world and learnt from what I have seen through my travels and previous business experiences. I have also worked in community organisations to assist youth in their development. As such, I believe the future lies with our children and we should prepare well for them. I would like to make a positive contribution to New Zealand and believe The Green Party to be the platform to lead the way to a more sustainable future for New Zealand.
