I grew up on a bush clad section in the Greater Wellington
region, with the great New Zealand outdoors never far from my
reach. As a keen sportsman I always enjoyed outdoor activities
especially rugby, tramping, cricket and diving. My first overnight
experience in the bush was at the age of 14 when a school teacher
and mentor offered some friends and I the opportunity to stay at
his hut in the Orongorongo valley, to help out with repairs and
general maintenance. This experience ignited my passion for the New
Zealand bush and wilderness and inspired me to complete my Duke of
Edinburgh/Hillary Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. Now, as a 21 year
old, tramping and travel have combined to give me a huge respect
and passion for the New Zealand environment, and given me a vested
interest in helping to preserve our unique natural environment for
future generations.
I am currently in my third year of study at Victoria University
of Wellington as a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration
undergraduate. Prior to University I had the privilege of being
selected as the Head Prefect at St Patricks College Silverstream
and then spent a year as a GAP student at St Martins Ampleforth
(prep-school) in Yorkshire. I play competitive rugby for my home
team Upper Hutt and I have enjoyed being both Captain and Vice
Captain over the past three years as well as playing at premier
level.
The opportunity to travel to Antarctica as the Sir Peter Blake
Trust Antarctic Youth Ambassador means the world to me. Ever since
I can remember I have admired and aspired to follow in the
footsteps of New Zealand icons like Sir Peter Blake and Sir Edmund
Hillary. Their achievements in exploration along with their
commitment to humanitarian and environmental works are an
inspiration. Going to the ice for five weeks to work with the
Antarctic Heritage Trust gives me a unique opportunity to be a part
of conserving the history of the heroic age of exploration. In
doing so I will gain a deeper understanding of the valuable
scientific research and restoration works taking place on the Icy
Continent. Sharing these experiences with others will be a
pleasure. It is my hope that I can contribute to a deeper societal
understanding and appreciation of the importance of the Antarctic
and its history, now and in the future.