Tell us a bit about yourself? 

I was born in Dunedin, and moved to the North Shore when I was 8 years old – attending Murray’s Bay Primary, Murray’s Bay Intermediate and Rangitoto College. I also stayed local for uni attending  AUT North Campus on Akoranga Drive, and played cricket for Takapuna Cricket Club for over 12 years. I am very much a Shore boy!

I met my wife Kellie 13 years ago in the States at Camp America, and we have now been married for 6 years with a 2 year-old son (Rocco) and another one due in September. Probably our favourite thing to do on the Shore on the weekend is go for a walk on Takapuna Beach – however, we’re also big fans of watching the bridge at Milford Marina go up and down as well (this may be more Rocco than Kellie and I!).

How long have you been involved with the North Harbour Club?

I have worked with Aidan at Benefitz for 15+ years, so I have been lucky enough to have attended the lunches, functions and other events for over 10 years. And, in my role at Benefitz, if I haven’t attended it – I’ve probably been involved with the design, printing or signage for the event!

How have you and your team navigated the challenges of lockdown and getting back in to ‘normal’ business?

It has been a challenging few months with a few required changes to the business but things are looking positive for us post-lockdown, and the fact that we are able to tackle a new challenge of moving into our new premises across the road is a very exciting change that we are all looking forward too. 

Are there any lifestyle changes you made during lockdown that you are going to continue on with… or any that need to be left behind!?

I am very much a creature of habit, so I had a good routine when we were in lockdown including walking on the beach every morning as a family plus some exercise later in the day. Although I also probably consumed to much red wine so I have had to rein that back in now!

Any exciting plans for Benefitz?

Aside from moving into our new building (can you tell I’m a bit excited about this?!), we recently printed and distributed 40,000 copies of Nadia Lim’s latest cookbook (Comfort Kitchen). This was a great job for us – fun, exciting and kept us on our toes as she sold quite a few.

Your favourite place to dine in the North Harbour region?

I love Japanese food, so Tokyo Bay in Takapuna is one of my favourites. But, you will often find me down at The Goodside at Smales Farm enjoying some drinks and food as it is just around the corner from my house. The Grange, Fantail & Turtle, Soho, Shake Out -  I love them all!

Your favourite spot to take the family in the North Harbour region?

As I mention above, coffee from Takapuna Beach Café and a walk on the beach is our normal way to start the days on the weekend. Anything at The Goodside at Smales Farm. And, you can’t beat a sunny Sunday afternoon at the Northcote Tavern with the family, mates and some hot chippies.