Congratulations to Mark Johnston for being awarded the Tall Tōtara award at last week’s NZOIA Excellence Awards 2024!

Awarded to a current instructor or guide who personifies ‘excellence in outdoor leadership’. A highly respected role model, someone who has contributed significantly to outdoor education in New Zealand through both work with clients and with aspirant instructors/guides.

Mark exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, dedication, and passion for the outdoors and our outdoor community. His unwavering commitment to the sector, along with his focus on safety, personal development, and the growth of others, is inspirational to all he encounters. His dedication is evident in every aspect of his work, from solid preparation to his calm, competent, yet enthusiastic approach in the field.

Mark’s career as an outdoor instructor and guide spans almost three decades and he has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism. Much of this has been spent at Adventure Specialties Trust. One of his most admirable qualities is his commitment to seeing the best in others. He has a remarkable ability to identify and nurture potential in aspiring instructors and guides, helping them achieve their goals and grow into confident, skilled professionals.

A NZOIA member for over 25 years, he holds multiple NZOIA qualifications, Sea Kayak 2, Bush 1, Alpine 1, Rock 1, and Kayak 1. He is also a qualified raft guide. This reflects his strong technical and instructional skills. His dedication to sustainable environmental practices further underscores his role as a model for others in the field.

Congrats, Mark, you are this year’s Tall Tōtara.

Text by NZOIA
Awards Photo credit: Andy Thompson Photography NZ

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