April, one of the instructors in Christchurch, shared this:

“Grace has been an awesome colleague and friend to the AST instructor team. She enjoys a phat chat in the office and chewing over some of the challenging topics in life. She is well-known for her home experiments, whether it is growing veges, making rongoa remedies and harvesting native flora and trying to propagate it.

“Something we admire about Grace is her focus on living a faith-based life and being intentional with this journey. Even during the busy instructing year she makes an effort to be a part of her church community and serve in this space.

“We wish you all the best Grace and know you will bring joy wherever you go.”

Tim (our CEO) says, “Grace worked for us as an outdoor instructor in Christchurch for over 3 years. Over that time, she has become a highly experienced and qualified instructor, with NZOIA qualifications Rock 1, Kayak 1 and Bush 1. She also was awarded the NZOIA Emerging Instructor award last year, which is a huge achievement!

Grace, you have been awesome to have on the team. And I’m sure we will see you around, helping out where you can.”

“We’ll miss you Gracey! Love your positive attitude towards everything. Stay in touch.” – Anita

“Thank you, Grace, for being the biggest smile in every room!” – Bex

“Best of luck with any future fishing, Grace.” – Anna

“Congrats on the move, Grace. Bloody legend!” – Tom

“All the best Gracie! Have loved hanging out with you and singing with you at staff retreat. You’re a little ray of sunshine and we all love you and will miss you. Take care and go well!” – Brenda

“We love Grace! Always a pleasure stealing you away from Christchurch to spend time with us up in the Auckland tea. Quality human being right there.” – Jeff

“A rad human who’s super fun to work and hang out with!! Thanks for always being entertaining to be around! Stay swell and we’ll be sure to see you around the South Island!!” – Caitlin

“We miss you so much already, Grace. Thanks for your kindness, fun and encouragement for me personally AND for all the people you’ve worked with at Adspecs. Hopefully see you soon anyway!!” – Grace

“You’re a legend, Grace, thanks for being so cool!!!” – Oli

The team at Purapura Whetu Trust say, “Thank you Grace for your mahi with us here at Purapura Whetu! Kua hua te marama! All the best for whatever’s next.”

Adrienne says, “Grace is a legend! The students are lucky to have been under her guidance. An entertaining memory would have been our ‘Leave No Trace’ fire antics. Or toasting massive marshmellows in the pouring rain .. All the best for your next chapter Grace!”

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Five Fun Facts about Grace, one of our Christchurch-based instructors

1.

“I am from Taranaki , the best place on earth
Literally the definition of ‘earth, sea, sky’

2.

I am engaged to be married this November – to a very lucky man.

3.

I followed my dreams and got my paragliding license in 2021

4.

I love to oil paint portraits

5.

My great dream is to go on an expedition to Antarctica ”

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CONGRATULATIONS GRACE!!! Winner of the NZOIA “Emerging Instructor” award at the annual Outdoor Excellence Awards. GO GRACE!!!⠀

Our CEO, Tim, says, “What a privilege to have Grace on our instructional team. She not only inspires her peers with enthusiasm and an adventurous spirit, but she also inspires an old dog like me with her unwavering passion to get out and do stuff! Congrats Grace, well deserved and an awesome acknowledgement of all your hard mahi.”
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Some comments from the rest of the staff:⠀
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“Grace has been an important part of the team at adventure Specialties, bringing her broad range of outdoor skills and exceptional people focused mind to provide outstanding programs. Amazing human being in general to have around.” – Joel⠀
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“I love having Grace as part of our team because she is so lovely, friendly, funny, hard working and generally just a wonderful human! I can’t wait to see her succeed even more in her future.” – Brenda⠀
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“Grace lives and breathes adventure! She makes any outdoor activity adventurous and fun for all of her participants. The energy she brings inspires other to pursue the outdoors outside of the programs they do with her.” – April⠀
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“Grace is a fantastic instructor because she puts the clients and their needs at the forefront of any decision. It has been great having Grace on our team because her energy and passion is contagious. Thank you Grace for been your genuine self all the time.” – Joe⠀
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About the award:⠀
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The NZOIA (New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association) Outdoor Excellence Awards are held annually to recognise the highest achievements of individuals involved in outdoor recreation, education and guiding in New Zealand. ⠀
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The Emerging Instructor award is presented to an instructor in their first five years of employment in the outdoor industry who displays great potential for the future.

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