As a media trainer, my role is to coach newsmakers throughout New Zealand. My popular workshops focus on media management and interview skills. Clients tell me I build confidence; demystify the media, and run entertaining sessions. Yes - training can be fun! You'll have a few laughs.
The coaching I offer is based on years of experience in New Zealand; Australia and the UK. I was a reporter and newsreader with RNZ and TVNZ, and a news producer with TV3. I've worked with news agencies in Sydney and London, and I've maintained a freelance role, reporting from New Zealand for the BBC for more than twenty years.
I've also been a Tourism New Zealand guide and fixer for visiting international news media.
My first media job was newsreading and reporting for private radio in Wellington. As a young reporter I covered the Trades Hall bombing and the Springbok rugby tour riots. Private radio led to newsreading and reporting roles with RNZ.
My first TV assignment was a nervous live cross from a news helicopter owned by Rupert Murdoch's Ten Network. My time in Sydney was followed by two years working as a radio correspondent in London.
On my return to New Zealand I began a long-term role freelancing for the BBC. Over the years my BBC coverage has included live reporting of the Pike River mining disaster; a visit to the Kim Dotcom mansion, and the aftermath of the Canterbury earthquakes.
In my former role as a Tourism NZ media guide, I toured the country with documentary makers from ITV, the BBC, CBS and CNN. During 2002, I accompanied Prime Minister Helen Clark on a national tour, coordinating her presenting role on the Discovery Channel/Tourism New Zealand Royal Tour documentary.
My background also includes roles in public relations and travel video production. Clients often ask me to MC events and presentations, or moderate live panel discussions. I've also provided presentation and voice coaching for TVNZ reporters and studio presenters.
Not surprisingly, my favourite activity outside work has always been photography.
