I’m a specialist with a great passion for strategic, management and operational aspects of open spaces – strategy right through to expression in policy, plans, designs, budgets and operational contracts.  I have 30 years of experience working in the open space and recreation sectors. Most of my work has been in a local government context. Previous roles include Head of Parks and Reserves, Hutt City Council, and Waterfront and City Parks Manager, Wellington City Council.

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I have a thorough understanding of the legislative requirements Councils must meet in their management of open spaces. I also understand cemeteries, wharves and play.    

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The most recent projects I have led include: the Reserves Investment Strategy 2023, an investment of $25M into open space projects from Reserve Financial Contribution revenue; Indigenous Biodiversity Strategy 2023, a local response to NPS-IB to guide District Plan review and reserves CAPEX programme; and the Asset Management Plan 2023 rewrite plan to inform Draft Long Term Plan and assets strategy.

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I approach my work pragmatically, with a clear understanding that communities need enough quality open spaces nearby that truly offer worthwhile benefits. Solutions for clients need to be smart from an asset management perspective and affordable.

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Qualifications

Bachelor of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Lincoln University 

Certificate of Sport and Recreation Facility Management, Christchurch Polytechnic Institute

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