I was raised in a small town under the shadows of a magnificent mountain, on the coast of Taranaki. Life was simple and supported by extended family and lifelong friends. Since then, I have raised three children, travelled extensively and lived abroad, and enjoyed several different careers.

I spent nine years working in dairy farming to an award-winning level before my husband passed away, and I then chose to embark on a university education. After gaining a bachelor’s degree in science (double major psychology and biology) and a master’s degree in science (biology & biochemistry) I enjoyed nine years as an IVF embryologist making babies for people. Following a period volunteering in a teenage mum’s home in Peru, I returned to full time study to be a clinical psychologist.  I completed the required seven years of study and training and have worked in settings such as general mental health, forensics, Department of Corrections, and Oranga Tamariki.