National Council elections

I am currently a member in the Northern area. I worked for New Zealand Red Cross from 2012 - 2020 with migration and humanitarian services. I was a volunteer member on the Auckland Area Council after being an employee. During this time, I was deployed as a surge migration delegate for IFRC in Myanmar as well as a remote migration delegate.

I have been a keen "Red Cross person" since I first got the opportunity to learn about the Movement in 2012 at the Asia Pacific Migration network meeting in Bangkok hosted by IFRC. I believe in the Fundamental Principles and the power of humanity.

I am keen to be involved again with Red Cross and take a more active role as part of the National Council, which I have previously observed (as an employee) and attended as a member. I would like to contribute to the Movement.

I am employed as a Team Lead in Ministry of Education working with refugee and migrant students and families. This keeps me updated with issues experienced by refugees and vulnerable migrants. I am also an active member of the Burmese community, involved with community development.

I have experience in community development and possess a deep understanding of our Fundamental Principles and their practical application, the migration programs and the needs of vulnerable migrants and refugees in New Zealand, as well as working within education and ethnic communities. 

I am currently a proud delivery volunteer for Meals on Wheels. I have been involved with New Zealand Red Cross since early 2023, and I have greatly enjoyed my voluntary work with the organisation and intend to continue. 

Red Cross is an inspirational organisation and its values of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality align with my own. I have been looking for a way to contribute more to Red Cross. I feel that the position as National Council member will be a way for me to use my professional skills to give back and help in a small way with the mission.

As a lawyer and insolvency practitioner, I have had to deal with scenarios requiring clear communication skills and empathy i.e. there is little money to go around, with tensions high, directors and shareholders, staff and unpaid creditors are all very concerned. Other skills I have developed are conflict management, communication, financial analysis and review, decision making processes and independence. These are the strength I would bring to the role as a National Council member.

I am currently the Waiheke Branch President and at present I am working on branch succession planning. After many years in Red Cross I have held various roles—locally, nationally, and internationally.

I am keen to contribute to governance at the national level. I see this as an opportunity to strengthen Area and Branch governance, ensuring our organisation fulfils its mission and Strategy 2030. In a time of global change and uncertainty, strong governance is important for maintaining accountability, strategic direction, and organisational integrity.

Beyond my Branch role, I remain engaged in social service networks, health and wellbeing advocacy, and initiatives that build community resilience. I also support environmental, artistic, and cultural groups, reflecting a holistic approach to humanitarian service, and I have a strong interest in international affairs and the dissemination of International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

I am a former nurse with an MA in Nursing Studies, and I bring over five years’ experience in Branch governance and Area Council participation. My past IFRC consultancy work included reviewing and evaluating four Pacific National Societies using frameworks for governance, operations, and performance.

I also have experience as a New Zealand Red Cross ICRC delegate, National Office staff member, and IFRC institutional development consultant. This lifelong commitment to the Movement, combined with my strategic, financial oversight, and governance skills, equips me to make a meaningful contribution at the national level.

I currently serve as a Northern Area Councillor, contributing meaningfully at a governance level within an organisation I’m proud to represent.

Professionally, I hold the role of National Business Quality Assurance and Environmental Manager, reflecting my dedication to excellence, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practice.

My academic background includes a Bachelor of Health Science, a Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Management with a focus on Business Management, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety.

I remain actively engaged in the community through various roles, including serving on the NZISM Auckland Committee, volunteering with Matuku Link and Ark in the Park and maintain accredited membership with NZOQ, EIANZ, NZISMProf, and HASANZ.

I’m confident that my passion, skill set, and broad experience would make a valuable contribution to the National Council.  

I am a member of the Auckland Disaster Welfare and Support Team, where I have served as both Training Officer and lead senior.

With over a decade of involvement, I’ve supported deployments across New Zealand, helped recruit new volunteers, and contributed feedback on Red Cross policies and practices.

I strongly believe in the importance of diverse volunteer representation to ensure all voices are heard. I’m passionate about ongoing improvement and committed to offering practical, balanced insights to help shape an organisation that serves everyone effectively.

In addition to my Red Cross work, I volunteer with Taskforce Kiwi, assisting in recovery operations. My service also includes roles with St John, Land SAR, various community groups, and a school board.

Professionally, I’m a registered medical scientist with more than 18 years of experience in quality assurance, compliance, and leadership, including regulatory accreditation within the medical field. I’m currently engaged in software development.

I bring strong decision-making abilities, a collaborative mindset, and a dedication to efficiency, innovation, and meaningful progress for the benefit of all. 

I was recently elected as a Midland Area Councillor, where I am committed to strengthening connections between branches, supporting local governance, and helping guide the delivery of our humanitarian mission at a regional level.

 As a former refugee supported by Red Cross, I know first-hand the life-changing impact of compassionate action. That experience drives me to ensure youth voices are central in shaping our national strategy, building an inclusive and responsive organisation that truly reflects the needs of our communities.

My Red Cross volunteering journey began as a Retail Assistant, followed by work supporting refugees and migrants with community integration, resource coordination, and access to essential services.

I currently work at Oranga Tamariki, serve as National People Officer for UN Youth NZ, and stay active in local community initiatives. I hold Law and Business degrees and bring governance, communication, and community engagement skills from leadership roles in both youth and social service organisations. I am experienced in volunteer policy, wellbeing, inclusion, and youth advocacy, I offer a fresh perspective, energy, and a collaborative approach to bridge youth and leadership—ensuring Red Cross remains inclusive, dynamic, and responsive across Aotearoa.

With 17 years of dedicated service to New Zealand Red Cross, I currently serve as Branch President in Tauranga and as a Training Officer with the Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST).

I am keen to deepen my involvement in planning and decision-making and to contribute meaningfully to governance across all levels of the organisation.

My background includes experience in Human Resource Management, Emergency Management, and Education, along with governance roles on various boards.

I bring expertise in employee and industrial relations, learning and development, and Mātauranga Māori, alongside a strong understanding of Red Cross Fundamental Principles and values.

I am a Tauranga Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST) volunteer and a Branch Committee member. I think the Red Cross is doing an amazing job taking care of our most vulnerable people, and I have met some inspiring individuals in the last year. It would be a great honour representing these wonderful volunteers by making sure the decisions made by the National Council are supporting their hard work.

I volunteer as a tour guide for The Elms in Tauranga, and I enjoy interacting with the visitors. I work for New Zealand Parliamentary Service as MP Support Adviser for the Tauranga MP. I deal with constituents and part of my job is a lot of community engagement. I am a health and safety representative for my area as part of the Parliamentary Health and Safety group for Electorate Offices. 

I am currently in the process of becoming a JP. As a member of the Tauranga Branch Committee, I had a bit of experience regarding strategic plans, annual report and financial statements. At my job, working with constituents I practice some of the Red Cross Fundamental Principles daily and I really enjoy volunteering. Giving back to my community is incredibly rewarding. 

I am currently the Duty Team Leader and Training Officer for the Hamilton Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST). 

I was inspired to join National Council by my deep commitment to helping communities in times of need. Witnessing the power of compassion, teamwork, and resilience in action, I wanted to contribute my skills and experience to make a meaningful impact. 

Being part of the Red Cross means standing with humanity, offering hope, and working towards a safer, stronger future for all.

Former Head of Department at the University of Zululand, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, lecturer and mentor for Master’s and Doctoral students, Waikato Volunteer, and Chairperson for SAMVO, dedicated to leadership, education, and community service.

I will bring strong leadership, strategic thinking, and crisis management skills, backed by hands-on volunteer experience. I excel in team collaboration, communication, and problem-solving under pressure. My commitment to humanitarian values, ability to engage with communities, and focus on practical, compassionate support ensure I can contribute meaningfully to the Red Cross’s mission.

I am a Youth Area Councillor on the Midland Area Council.

Being involved with Governance, I am keen to represent the Midland Area at a national level and I firmly believe a strong governance needs a diverse representation.

As a youth area councillor, I aim to represent and advocate for the younger members and volunteers of the New Zealand Red Cross. 

I work as a Senior Project Manager in a Civil Engineering Design Consultancy, specialising in the design and delivery of transport and aviation projects. I have experience handling company financials (both as a Project Manager and a Commerce Degree). I am a member within my local Baptist Church and the Hamilton Civic Choir.

I have volunteered for other organisations previously and have a particular interest in event organisation and logistics. Since 2023, I’ve served as an Area Councillor and I was also a member of National Council for the 2024/25 term.

I am the Area Chair for East-West Area Council, a Whanganui Branch member and the Team Leader for the Whanganui Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST).

As Area Council Chair, I feel that it is important to stay aware of decisions and planning within New Zealand Red Cross, as well as being the voice for our area and feeding back what I learn. I also believe that DWST should be well represented at the National Council. I always come home from the meeting inspired and recharged to continue my volunteering. I bring my knowledge of the East-West area and believe that I am a good spokesperson for our members.  

My roles within New Zealand Red Cross include serving as a Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST) member for the past two years, and from 2024, as a Deputy Chair of the East-West Area Council, where I hold special responsibility for the New Plymouth and Inglewood Branches. I have also been actively involved with the New Plymouth Branch over the last two years. 

As a firm believer in the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, along with my experience in governance and management of organisations, I believe I have the skills that can contribute to the upholding of our principles and can add value to our governance.

I have served as a Justice of the Peace since 2005 and have been a Council member of the Taranaki Association of Justices of the Peace since 2007, holding key roles including Vice President, President, Registrar (for five years), and Treasurer (for one year). My governance experience also includes serving as Secretary and Treasurer for the Waitara RSA Charitable Trust and the Taranaki Masonic Trust, as well as President and Chair of the Red Robin Club of New Plymouth and its Charitable Trust. I’ve held governance and management roles on boards such as the Waitara Business Association and Waitara Alive, and I was the organiser of the Victor 3 Reunion for Vietnam Veterans in August 2025.

My leadership background is further supported by my service as a Sergeant General Service Instructor in the RNZAF. I have run my own successful businesses including the first Personnel Agency in Auckland specialising in the hospitality industry and have trained sales teams. I continue to attend courses to expand my knowledge and skills.

I have been a member of the Waipukurau Branch of New Zealand Red Cross since 2005.

From 2006 to 2020 I was an International Delegate, serving in many areas of conflict and natural disaster - such as Kenya, Afghanistan, South Sudan, Iraq, Yemen, Sierra Leone and Georgia. I have assisted with IMPACT courses for new delegates, and I have also taught first aid.

I am committed to the culture and principles of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. I have been seconded to ICRC and IFRC previously. I have seen what members can accomplish, and I feel that I have the necessary skills, experience and aptitude to become a member and add value to National Council.

My current profession is as a nurse and midwife. I have been in the nursing profession for 49 years so far, and therefore I have a good deal of experience and hopefully wisdom to draw on. Currently I am also a full-time doctoral (PhD) scholar at Massey University, and my thesis research title is "A Critical Analysis of Nursing Practice in Extreme Humanitarian Settings Through a Public Health Intervention Lens". 

I am an accredited and serving JP in the rural community of Porangahau, Hawkes Bay. With my long tenure as an accomplished International Delegate, and recipient of The Florence Nightingale Medal, I would bring to this role a wealth of knowledge and experience from the international perspective, as far as New Zealand Red Cross is concerned during disaster and conflict. I am also a company director of a farming enterprise in Hawkes Bay and therefore I have can contribute some useful skills in governance.

I am a dedicated volunteer with the New Zealand Red Cross, currently serving as Team Leader for Disaster Welfare and Support Team (DWST). In this capacity I lead team operations in disaster response, coordinate recruitment efforts, particularly encouraging youth participation, develop comprehensive training schedules, and oversee equipment and inventory management to ensure readiness for emergency deployment. 

I’m inspired to stand for National Council due to a deep commitment to Red Cross values and my experience in disaster response and refugee support. I’ve seen how aligned governance, strategy, and community action create real impact. I’m motivated to help the organisation adapt to complex challenges with agility and inclusivity, ensuring diverse voices are heard. I aim to contribute skills and passion to lead a trusted and resilient Red Cross for all communities.

Alongside my operational duties, I work for the Department of Corrections, and I am completing a Master of Public Policy at the University of Auckland, which informs my approach to inclusive, evidence-based community engagement. This academic perspective strengthens my ability to align practical disaster welfare work with broader strategies that promote social equity and resilience. I bring humanitarian frontline experience, public sector expertise, and governance skills to National Council. As DWST Team Leader, I’ve led emergency responses and community support. My work with refugees and in policy development strengthens my commitment to inclusive, principled leadership. I’m passionate about diversity, resilience, and collaboration to guide the Red Cross through complex challenges. 

I am a Refugee Support Volunteer assisting with the resettlement of refugees in Masterton.

I have previously worked closely with Ministers, the UNHCR and other agencies on the composition and selection of refugees for New Zealand.

I have a high regard for volunteer-led organisations such as the Red Cross and believe they are the backbone of the community. Red Cross can provide rigour and support communities in ways others cannot. The range of activities undertaken is both impressive and essential.

Based on my experiences, I can contribute at a governance level to help strengthen the organisation at strategic, financial, and operational levels.

I’m a recently retired General Manager from Immigration New Zealand. This included; four years in charge of the migrant and refugee settlement programme, running the policy team (operationalising policy) including border closures during Covid.

I am a member of the Waiohine River Plan Advisory Committee-Wellington Regional Council, Forest and Bird, authoring books (a novel and an environmental book), and doing some part-time work reviewing major projects for the Treasury.

I have experience leading policy, research, and operational teams in government (including capacity building for Māori and Pacifica peoples). This included research on the resettlement experiences of refugees and the settlement of migrants, implementing the first refugee strategy to enhance their resettlement experience, and securing funding for the rebuild of the reception centre in Auckland (Mangere). Previously, I worked with the Christchurch City Mission. I have a Master of Arts degree.

I have been a member of New Zealand Red Cross for just over a year, volunteering in the refugee resettlement program and getting a  'hands on' understanding of what the Red Cross does.

As a result, I have been inspired by a combination of my personal values, my leadership and governance experience to be able to contribute to a humanitarian service at the national governance level.

I have a health management and leadership background. My governance experience includes board roles on statutory authorities in Australia and with non-profit boards in New Zealand with Mary Potter Hospice and Te Hopai Home and Hospital Trust. I also volunteer for a drug related harm reduction service Know Your Stuff NZ and the WHWS club. My personal hobbies include yoga, tramping, attending film festivals and walking our westie dog, wee Jimmy, up Mount Kau Kau.

I bring a strong mix of governance experience and personal attributes aligned to the Red Cross mission. I have a sound understanding of legal, ethical and financial governance responsibilities, and the importance of a strategic vision in the not-for-profit sector including financial sustainability strategies.

In addition, with the recent refugee program experience, I have a broader understanding of the social issues and vulnerabilities within New Zealand communities and the importance of empathy, diversity and inclusion.

I am the current Treasurer of the Central Area Council, after serving as a Councillor for the last year. Before that, I was involved in the Southern & Otago Area Councils and served on the Dunedin Branch. I was a member of the Dunedin Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST) for 10 years before moving to the Wellington Region, including being part of the Water Sanitation and Hygiene and Emergency Operation Centre Technical Groups, and deploying in response to several disasters.

As New Zealand Red Cross continues to implement Strategy 2030 and set itself up for future success, it will continue to go through significant changes to enable it to emerge stronger. Being part of these changes and guiding the organisation is important to me as a way of giving back to a community that has given me so much.

I am an emergency management advisor for the New Zealand Customs Service and have a Postgraduate Diploma in Emergency Management. Outside of work and Red Cross, I am also a volunteer ambulance officer for St John.

I am familiar with how Red Cross Governance operates at all levels and have served as a National Councillor in the past. I have been involved in several reviews of the New Zealand Red Cross Statutes, as well as the implementation of Strategy 2030. I am comfortable digesting financial and high-level reporting and making decisions with the best interests of the organisation front of mind. 

I am currently an Area Councillor in the Central Area, elected this year for a further term of three years.

Previously, I was co-opted as an Area Councillor for Central as Treasurer for three years. From 1998 to 2006, I was a Red Cross volunteer. From 2006 I have been closely involved with the Red Cross Wellington Branch, serving as Secretary and Treasurer. Coordinating Red Rose Day, annual appeals, and several BBQ fundraising events. 

National Council allows me the opportunity to contribute to decision-making at the highest level. I admire the fundamental principles of the Red Cross and its humanitarian work in New Zealand and overseas.

My humanitarian work with UNHCR in East Timor and USAID in Sri Lanka further inspired me and deepened my appreciation for the work the Red Cross delivers. I bring to this role my public policy experience, long-standing Red Cross experience, and academic qualifications.

I am currently a freelance international trade consultant. I hold academic qualifications in Commerce (B.Com), Economics (B.Phil.), and Business Administration (MBA). I have served as Treasurer and Auditor for several local NGOs, including the New Zealand Indian Fine Arts Society, and I am a Justice of the Peace assisting clients in Churton Park and Johnsonville.

My background in governance, finance, and strategic planning, combined with a lifelong commitment to humanitarian service, equips me to make a meaningful contribution at the national level. I bring extensive public policy experience, including free trade agreement negotiations (15 years). My public policy expertise enables me to contribute meaningfully to Red Cross strategic planning.

I serve as an Upper South Area Councillor with the New Zealand Red Cross, contributing to governance oversight, strategic direction, and community engagement. I help ensure our area’s work aligns with the organisation’s humanitarian mission, core principles, and compliance requirements.

I’m joining National Council because I’m passionate about the Red Cross mission and believe my governance experience can help strengthen its national impact. I understand the difference strong leadership makes, and I want to contribute to that commitment and expertise at the national level. I’m standing for the National Council because I’m passionate about the Red Cross mission and believe my governance experience can help strengthen its national impact.

I understand the difference strong leadership makes, and I want to contribute that commitment and expertise at the national level. I bring strong governance experience from my Senior Adviser role, supporting elected officials and acting as Team Leader. My governance roles across community organisations have sharpened skills in strategic oversight, financial management, and stakeholder engagement. Combined with my academic background in business, HR, and project management, I offer a well-rounded ability to enhance governance, collaboration, and organisational effectiveness.

I’m a Meals on Wheels volunteer and active branch member, eager to deepen my understanding of how the Red Cross operates and to find new ways to contribute meaningfully to it’s important work.

Beyond Red Cross, I volunteer as a St John shuttle driver and support the Presbyterian Support group, offering respite day care to residents in Hokitika. I also participate in the local small dog play group.

For the past two years, I’ve served on the Kotuku Surf Lifesaving Committee, and I’m currently standing for election as a councillor for the Westland District Council.

I believe in stepping up wherever I see a need and doing what I can to strengthen my community.

I am a Councillor on the Area Council for the Upper South Region and the Team Leader for the West Coast Disaster Welfare Support Team based in Greymouth.

After more than 15 years of volunteering for New Zealand Red Cross, I have seen the value of good leadership and the Fundamentals Principles in guiding the work of New Zealand Red Cross. I am committed to seeing this continue.

I work at Silver Fern Farms. My experience with the New Zealand Red Cross includes serving as Councillor and Youth Representative on the West Coast and Upper South Area Councils, as well as Team Leader and Training Officer for the Disaster Welfare Support Team.

Over this time, I have been involved in a wide range of deployments, training activities, and collaborative efforts alongside other dedicated Red Cross members across our regions.

The experience and skills I can contribute to the National Council include: an understanding of our operational and governance environments and strong leadership.

I am a newly appointed Area Councillor for the Upper South, and I Volunteer with the Nelson Refugee Resettlement Programme.

Although, I have spent nearly 30 years with the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, initially with New Zealand Red Cross and then with IFRC, both in the Geneva Secretariat and in the field. I am now keen to work again at a local and national level to learn and understand well, what the role and vision of New Zealand Red Cross is in today's context and what I might be able to offer.

I am retired and newly returned to New Zealand and am currently a member of the Body Corp of my apartment complex.

While living in Thailand, after my last Federation posting and prior to returning to Aotearoa New Zealand, I worked as an advisor to three Foundations: Skills for Life, working with orphans and disadvantaged adolescents, Cultural Crossroads, working with Ethnic Groups of the Golden Triangle, and Asian Captive Elephant Working Group, looking at conditions and legal issues regarding elephants. 

I have considerable experience with the Red Cross Movement firstly at Secretariat level - with Youth Programmes, Principles and Policy, Delegate Training, Communications and events, and secondly in the field, in Youth and Dissemination of IHL and Southern Africa countries, and as a Head of Delegation for the Caribbean and Head of Delegation Myanmar.

The knowledge and experiences I have gained would be valuable on a National Council.

I have been a Red Cross Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST) volunteer for the past three years, completing all the necessary training. I am currently the Deputy Team Leader for the West Coast team.

I joined Red Cross originally as a means of giving back to my community, to make it safer and to provide information and skill should it be necessary. In my view Red Cross contributes to that community on a national basis and I want to be part of that.

I am currently the administrator for one of the biggest Government departments on the West Coast. Part of my role involves Health and Safety and Emergency preparedness. I am involved with the Kaiata Community Hall Inc as Secretary/Treasurer.

As a trained Legal Executive and Trust Accountant, I can interpret legal, legislative, and financial documents. I’ve built strong relationships with government agencies, NGOs, and local community groups as needed.

My work involves supporting vulnerable people, giving me insights into community challenges pre-disaster. I understand governance structures through my work and as a member of the Health, Safety & Security Committee, I have experience across varied health and safety settings. 

I am a team member in the Disaster Welfare Support Team RC 23 in Christchurch.

I believe strongly in the humanitarian principles that Red Cross is founded upon and as a volunteer for over four years, I would like to be a part of how those values are used in the wider extent of the Red Cross movement in Aotearoa. I believe I have a lot of good ideas and experience as a volunteer to help contribute to the high-level direction of Red Cross. 

I am currently a PhD student studying disaster preparedness and community engagement at the University of Canterbury specifically working with older persons in rural areas. I have a level 4 certificate in Te Reo Māori and am currently doing a Māori weaving (raranga) course. I am a co-founder and member of the Plate Boundary Network, a formal network of hazard communication practitioners around Aotearoa.

I bring over a decade of experience in disaster preparedness, community engagement and strategic programme development across both academic and volunteer sectors in Aotearoa New Zealand.

My strengths lie in bridging technical expertise with community-centred approaches and I have a strong record of fostering partnerships between organisations, government agencies, and vulnerable communities. I have personal experience as a Red Cross volunteer and have a good understanding of Red Cross operations.

I have been involved with the Disaster Welfare and Support Team for 30 years and have recently been elected to the area council for the Canterbury area.

Being on the Area Council inspired me to do this.

I am a teacher's aide and work with children of all ages at a primary school.

I also volunteer with the police as a crime camera watcher and have done this for 27 years.

I think the time that I have spent in Red Cross and being part of the DWST team would bring another angle to looking at things, to help continue to take Red Cross forward.

I am a New Zealand Red Cross RC23 DWST trainee volunteer, and an International Delegate WASH ERU with the Swedish Red Cross.

The critical alignment of Strategy 2030, the Red Cross Fundamental Principles, and my skills and global experience as a humanitarian engineer are the three key drivers that inspired me to apply. For 18 years I have responded to natural hazards, conflicts, and diseases with the United Nations and multilateral development banks. I bring a unique global perspective on the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, conflict, social inclusion, and human rights. I wish to continue supporting vulnerable communities in New Zealand through the National Council.

I am a humanitarian and international development engineer with UNOPS, UNDP, World Bank, and Asian Development Bank. I volunteer for Taskforce Kiwi and Engineers without Borders.

I bring 23 years of experience in working in Disaster Risk Management & International Programs. Skills that I have include humanitarian and international development engineering, providing technical advice on strategic and legal documents, disaster response and recovery, urban search and rescue, climate change adaptation and disaster resilient design. I have experience in providing technical advisory to governments, United Nations, World Bank, ADB, USAID and others and working with Pacific Island states.

I have had a significant and impactful role with the New Zealand Red Cross. With 15 years of involvement across Southland and now Canterbury and currently serving as the Canterbury Area Council Chair, I have a wealth of experience and dedication to the humanitarian cause.

My leadership involves overseeing local initiatives, and working closely with volunteers and community members to ensure the Red Cross's mission is effectively carried out in the Canterbury region.

As the current Area Council Chair, I believe that, given my position as the highest level of local governance, it is essential for me to be in attendance. This role allows me to have a broad oversight of the entire area.

I am currently employed by the local council.

I bring a wealth of relevant experience and skills to this role, including local governance experience as the current Area Council Chair.

I have a comprehensive understanding of local governance and the ability to oversee and coordinate activities across the Canterbury region. These experiences collectively enable me to bring a well-rounded perspective and a strong commitment to the Red Cross's mission.

I am currently a volunteer and Team Leader for the Christchurch Disaster Welfare and Support Team (DWST).

I believe in the role of New Zealand Red Cross in the community, not just emergencies and resilience but also in the maintenance of humanitarian values. I believe that governance coupled with my experience on the ground will support New Zealand Red Cross' strategy and connect from the community all the way up to the national level.

I want to keep advocating for an organisation I've been an active member of for many years and feel that being part of National Council will enable me to do that internally as well as externally.

I am currently a rehabilitation programme facilitator for the Department of Corrections. I also support local Response Teams and Emergency support teams with their training around psychosocial support in a disaster, implementing strategic planning and communication to also better organisational responses across multiple agencies. I am involved with different sport communities and have close relationships with the vulnerable communities in the Christchurch area.

With my vast network of New Zealand Red Cross volunteers and employees, building relationships and connections are of high value and strong suit that I bring with me in every environment. 

I have a vast knowledge of Te Ao Maori and working with local iwi and hapū, creating strong connections with New Zealand Red Cross and iwi, reimaging the work we do in a more resilient way and supporting vulnerable people.

I'm a Disaster Welfare and Support team member. I’ve been proud to be part of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement for several years, including serving on the Youth Board in 2022 before moving overseas. 

Now that I’ve returned home, I’m eager to reconnect and continue my journey with the organisation. I’m passionate about the Red Cross humanitarian principles and values, and I’m inspired to help uphold and share them through meaningful service at a national level.

Currently I'm studying a Post Graduate Certificate in Professional Communication (Public Sector). I bring a broad set of skills built through leadership, operational, and communications roles both within and outside of the Red Cross. Having previously served as a DWST Team Leader, I gained firsthand experience coordinating emergency response teams, developing training materials, and leading deployments—skills that have sharpened my leadership, strategic thinking, and collaboration abilities. 

My current role with the Red Cross is as Co-chair of the Southern Area Council (2024-present) and Area Councillor (2021–present).

I previously served as Deputy Team Leader of the Dunedin DWST (2012 -2020) and was a team member from 2004 to 2020. In 2020 I was awarded with Honorary Life Membership. I have been encouraged and supported by my Southern Area Councilors and Support/Planning Leads.

As an honorary (retired) faculty member at the University of Otago, I continue to contribute to lab-based research by assisting and guiding colleagues in preparing their research for publication (gratis).

I bring over 40+ years of administrative and committee experience as an academic along with 16 years of experience with Dunedin DWST.

I’m the Deputy Team Lead and Training Officer for the Dunedin Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST) and a Branch member of the Dunedin Branch. I am interested in learning and understanding more about how New Zealand Red Cross operates.

I’m an Archaeologist, interested in climate change and the actions we can take to mitigate its impact.

I’ve been part of the Dunedin DWST for seven years, during which I have been deployed locally and nationally. During that time, I’ve worked alongside the team to recruit and train new members to our current standards and I understand what it is like to undertake the frontline disaster response work that the Red Cross does.

Currently I am the Dunedin Branch President. I have been a volunteer in DWST, Refugee Resettlement, Area Council, first aid events, and have deployed to disasters as a DWST member both locally and nationally. 

I believe that volunteers in a volunteer-led organisation need to be prepared to take on extra responsibilities. I know that with the wide experience I have within Red Cross as a volunteer I have the knowledge and skills to offer sensible and effective contributions to the council.

I work for Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ as a Nurse and Patient Safety Coordinator. I am the current chair of the College of Air and Surface Transport Nurses.

I have extensive knowledge of all aspects of Red Cross volunteer work and extensive experience in all roles of a committee, which includes reading and understanding financial reports. I have a wide view of the organisation and can see the impact decisions can have on volunteers and those we serve, which I believe is essential for this role. 

I am currently the Co-Chair and a Youth Area Councillor in the Southern Area Council. I have previously been a member of the Invercargill DWST team.

I joined New Zealand Red Cross because the seven Fundamental Principles align closely with my personal beliefs and I was looking for ways to give back to the community. My recent involvement has been focused on the Southern Area Council and I stood as a National Council Member candidate to work with the area delegates, ensuring the Southern Area has a strong voice and representation at National level.

I work in Emergency Management, currently focused on the Health Sector after previously completing my Master of Emergency Management. I also volunteer with Land Search and Rescue, holding roles as Vice-Chair, Projects and Fundraising, and an operational IMT member of Southland LandSAR.

I have been involved in local leadership within New Zealand Red Cross for the past year as Southern Area Council Co-Chair and Youth Councillor. This means I am aware of the structure, functions, and regulations that we operate within. I also have governance and leadership experience within other volunteer organisations over a variety of roles. My strongest skills are in leadership, communications, education, community engagement, stakeholder relationships and problem solving.