Our People, ō tātou
Our friendly staff are here to help and will try their utmost to ensure that your whole experience from booking and planning through to your departure from the island (and everything in between), runs as smoothly as possible.
Facility Manager - Duncan Watson
Duncan has been with us since 2005. He oversees all the bookings and also has the challenging task of finding funding for various projects. But Duncan isn’t all paperwork and finances, he is a very accomplished sailor and regularly competes in sailing regatta's both inshore and offshore based. Duncan was appointed to the Outdoor Recreation Sub Committee of Recreation Aotearoa in 2023.
Operations Manager - Kim Matheson
Kim’s role is island based and centres on group management, biosecurity and logistics. Her educational background and knowledge of project management combine with her own passion for the outdoors. She is dedicated to conservation and is a nature lover at heart. Tramping off the beaten track and snorkeling are just some of her favourite pastimes.
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Ken Simpson. A diesel mechanic by trade, the ultimate "Mr Fix It" dude, and certainly a handy man to have around. He enjoys a bit of armchair rugby when he's not enjoying fishing and recreational activities. With his green fingers he prepares a mean salad too.
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Jon Reynolds aka JR. A movie star in his own right and living history thespian. When not sword fighting he loves to share his passion for the outdoors. Often heard before seen, has many tales to tell with a heart of gold. A master chef behind the scenes with blueberry muffins his signature dish.
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Greg brings a wealth of experience and has instructed for 7 years. When not climbing trees he’s cutting them down under the guise of a “Tree Surgeon”. Not a land lubber he is always keen to get out on the water and with a size 14 feet he’s quite the paddler. With all this energy spent his interests include a good Breakfast Buffet.
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Rhian loves nature and in a previous life groomed K9’s prior to advancing her career in the great outdoors. She loves to foster personal growth in the outdoor environment and enjoys facilitating positive experiences for others in natures wonderland. When not working you’ll find Rhian participating in a myriad of water sports.
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When Oscar is not at the Archery Range he may be found on the water; rowing, kayaking and sailing whenever he has the chance. He enjoys all outdoor activities and thanks his high school teachers for his love of what nature has to offer. Oscar is now feeding forward to others his own positive experiences.
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Joel loves it out in the wild west and has a special connection to the Waitakere Ranges which have inspired him to become an outdoor educator. His creativity has also drawn him towards the stage and acting. Joels love of books saw him conquer the entire Harry Potters series in one week flat. When not in the outdoors he loves to tinker with electronics and enjoys a good board game in his downtime.
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Lily spends most of her time either on the water or under it. When not snorkeling and diving exploring the sea life below she may be found at the helm of a boat. It is no surprise her favourite food is sushi!
Our Board of Trustees
Our board of trustees are a passionate bunch consisting of John Duthie, Paul Wymer, Fiona Beal, Phil Allen, Ken Rapson, Murray Hobson, Craig Williams, Keith Hall, and Vicki Barry. They all bring a number of skills and enthusiasm to Motutapu Outdoor Education Camp and we are lucky to have them.
But wait, there’s more.
Want to join our awesome team?
We are always looking to add more fun faces to our MOEC family!
Often, we hire instructors on a contractual basis and bring them in when extra staff are required. All our instructors whether permanent or contract, must go through a rigorous selection and training regime. They are assessed and appraised regularly on both theoretical and practical aspects of each activity, ensuring that best industry practice is maintained in all areas.
See our job vacancies page for more information!