About Me

Local Roots

I grew up in North East Valley, Dunedin. My mother’s family arrived here from Scotland in 1860, and my father’s side moved from Rarotonga to Rotorua in the 1960s. Mum lectured in Accounting at the University of Otago, and I went to Kavanagh College (now Trinity).

I graduated with Law and Political Studies degrees and worked locally in family law, relationship property and civil litigation. Today, I live in St Clair with my partner and four girls. My family is deeply connected to this region; from schools and sports teams, to our seafood business, to community projects. Otago is where I’ve built my life and where I want to make a difference.

Professional Background

My career over the last decade has spanned law, community leadership, and primary industries. In recent years I’ve worked in New Zealand’s rock lobster industry; recognised globally as one of the best managed fisheries. That role gave me a front-row seat to how science, regulation and local knowledge can combine to sustain a resource while supporting regional economies.

But my work goes well beyond fisheries. Through the Toroa Foundation, the charitable trust I helped establish, I’ve led initiatives that connect environment, culture, and community - from planning for a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on our coast, to youth cultural projects, to local grant funding. I also served on the St Clair School Board of Trustees. These experiences taught me how to navigate policy, bring diverse groups together, and turn ambitious ideas into practical outcomes.

Community & Advocacy

I care deeply about how Otago balances people, production, and protection. When the government’s marine reserves process fell short, I stood up not to oppose protection, but to insist it be done fairly, with sound science and community voices at the table. I’ve rolled up my sleeves in habitat restoration, wildlife recovery, and community consultations that link food production with climate responsibility.

What I Bring to Otago

My perspective is grounded in the realities of all primary industries, farming, fishing, and food production and the communities that rely on them. I’ve seen how disconnect between consumers and producers can distort debate and stall solutions. I know Otago can lead by showing that sustainable production and climate action are not opposites, but partners.

That’s why I’ve invested my energy into the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve consultation. The Biosphere isn’t just about the coast; it’s a framework to unite farmers, fishers, iwi, scientists, businesses and schools around positive climate action, innovation, and resilience.

Looking Ahead

I’m standing for Otago Regional Council because I believe this region deserves constructive, collaborative, forward-looking leadership. My commitment is simple: I’ll work hard, ask the tough questions, and make sure decisions deliver real outcomes for both people and nature.