I have lived in the Taihape area with my family for around 19 years. I completed a degree in horticulture at Massey University and in 2000 we started our plant nursery on 2 acres in Utiku. I took a few years off from nursery work to train and work as a primary school teacher, but in 2012 I decided I needed to get back out in the garden again and returned to work at the Greenhaus.

Early in 2013 I completed a PDC with Gary and Emily Williams at Hanawera. This was just what I needed to get me going on a new direction. I have attended the convergence and huis in New Zealand to expand my learning and connections within the permaculture community.

I have been inspired to undertake projects that have a strong emphasis on people care and fair share, as well as earth care, and my aim is to share permaculture ideas with those who may not otherwise hear about them. I am doing this through our nursery business and by providing local workshops on sustainable gardening, and by undertaking some specific permaculture design projects - starting a Transition group, creating a 'Sharing Garden', and developing a community orchard initiative called 'Trees for Homes'. These community projects are providing the basis for my study/research towards a Diploma in Permaculture Design.