Originally from Southland, Rachel brings extensive experience in leadership and management in a variety of industries, including education, government, financial services, and not-for-profit.

Rachel believes in empowering people to reach their full potential and loves the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurship of Southlanders. 

After 18 years away from Southland, Rachel and her husband Nigel made the choice to move back in 2018 to reconnect with their rural roots, have more time with their two young girls, and take advantage of the amazing lifestyle Southland has to offer…which they continue to embrace this today!

Rachel brings extensive experience in leadership and management in a variety of industries, including veterinary services, central government, financial services, creative (digital media), education and not-for-profit. She has held roles that span throughout Southland, Christchurch, Wellington, and London and has a track record of strong results through building trusted relationships.

Over the years Rachel has played competitive hockey and football as well as competing in a few mountain bike races and half marathons. Now she spends time on the sidelines cheering her girls on in their chosen sports and is a Board member with both Youthline Southland and Badminton Southland and is part of the Makarewa School PTA Committee.