Motivational
Aaron Fleming is an Ironman, New Zealand’s Olympic Games torchbearer, an author, and one of New Zealand’s youngest speakers with one of the most moving tales you will ever hear … Aaron's story is gripping, emotional and truly inspirational. He can talk about change, overcoming adversity, goal setting and perseverance.
Allison shows organisations how in getting the best out of their people, they can achieve productivity and profit. Allison is an international speaker of vast experience.
For 10 months he was trapped by crushing ice. For 5 months he endured soul-destroying solitude. For 3 months he lived in total darkness. For 1 hour he will have you on the edge of your seat. Explorers are a special breed of people blessed with courage, determination and an instinct for survival.
Amanda is best know for her training programmes on how to present yourself, rather than the traditional skills of how to present a speech. She facilitates change in human behaviour and enables people to focus on their fears or self doubts and to work out what is holding them back or blocking their progress. By encouraging people to express their fears she can give them the practical means to move forward and present themselves well.
Annah Stretton is the founder of the Annah Stretton fashion label, a successful New Zealand entrepreneur, (celebrating 25 years in the business of fashion this year,) an author of seven books and an in-demand public speaker.
World Champion Board sailor and Olympic Gold Medallist Barbara Kendall won a gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, silver medal in 1996 (in Atlanta, Georgia), and a bronze medal in 2000 (in Sydney). She then finished finished 5th at the 2004 Games in Athens and sixth at the 2008 Games in Beijing. She is the first and only woman from New Zealand to compete at 5 Olympic Games. In 2009 Barbara was runner up in Dancing with the Stars and in 2010 she announced her retirement from boardsailing.
Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2000, Bill started out as a scuba diving instructor, then began taking underwater commercial jobs. Before long Bill had so much work he bought a dive support vessel and in 1983 launched his shipping company Seaworks. Bill has found a niche market and developed a highly successful maritime service business. An innovative and entrepreneurial businessman as well as adventurer.
Billy travelled the world for many years as a professional shearer and was involved in a World Record 20 years ago which still stands today, (shearing 675 sheep in one day).
Billy Graham's presentations are 'punchy', 'lively' and 'fun'. He is full of energy and his humourous presentations are always memorable.
One of the biggest challenges facing millions of people daily is getting out of bed in the morning and looking forward to going to work. A lot of people go through the motions to fulfill a function, to earn some dollars, to live a life. We all know that there is more. The key is finding it. It’s having the positive mindset in the first instance then the motivation and confidence to seek.
For over 20 years Cath Vincent has been inspiring business leaders and sales people to learn the tools of change that will revolutionise their personal effectiveness.
Clare has worked with people from factory floor to board room and at all levels of government, including farmers, iwi, conservationists, investors, accountants, manufacturers and drinking water, stormwater and wastewater utilities. A wealth of anecdotes from the horrifying to the hilarious, the informative to the inspirational, make her an engaging and motivational speaker.
Dave Letele is the founder of Brown Buttabean Motivation (BBM), a free community health programme that has helped thousands of New Zealanders lose weight and get fit and healthy.
She delivers practical; ’how-to’; motivating solutions that will have your group saying wow! every few moments. Debbie is one of the most sought after speakers in NZ and Australia, a media columnist and bestselling author of 16 books. She is unique in her gift for combining intimate knowledge of everyday business tools; understanding your business and problems; then creating unique customised presentations targeting pain points. Your group learns how to make easy, tiny, implementable tweaks to what they do, creating significant gains in the area you are targeting.
Denis’ experience encompasses restructuring businesses, doing one-on-one mentoring and coaching of CEO’s and management teams, devising and implementing high-level business strategies, turning managers into leaders, helping companies to analyse operations, develop and implement change management strategies and return organisations to sustainable profitable long-term growth. He is an informed and entertaining speaker.
Wellington based Denise Carnihan is living proof that ideas borne on a whim, can rapidly become reality. Little did she know that what started as her son’s school project on ‘family origins’ would result in visiting her newly discovered family in South Africa in 2009, and lead her and her family on a completely different life journey, culminating in her and her husband building a fully functioning school in a poor region of Nairobi, Kenya in 2011.
Dick Tayler has an inspirational story with amusing anecdotes and poignant messages.
Dillon played over 100 games for the NZ Mens Basketball Team (Tall Blacks) between 1989 and 2008. These include an Olympics, a Commonwealth Games and three World Championship including the memorable tournament in 2002 where NZ finished fourth. He has had 16 international tours with the team. With the NZ Breakers he has won the NBL three years in a row from 2010-11 through to 2012-13.
Don started his career with the New Zealand Black Sox as a player from 1987 to 1991. He was part of the team when they attended and won the Silver Medal at the 1988 World Series.
He has been a long-term consultant to four Formula One teams as well as the New Zealand All Blacks specialising in performance optimisation and he is retained by the New Zealand Government to provide elite training to Olympic and team sports. He is also the author of The Winner’s Bible and The Ant and the Ferrari.
Her passion for both sports and science has enabled her to travel the world on a search for her next adventure or research project. With specialist knowledge in nanotechnology, Michelle has contributed to the development of cutting edge technologies.
Eric has balanced his distinguished and highly successful rugby career with goals off the field. He completed a Bachelor of Law degree and was admitted to the Bar as a Barrister. He worked for seven years in Corporate Law before devoting himself full time to his rugby career. At the same time, he has continued to pursue other business interests and investments. Eric has strong leadership skills and is a highly rated speaker.
He works with people who are ready for change, ready to take things to the next level and with a desire to be the best they can be. Geoff's clients want to live and work intentionally, blow out excuses and limiting emotions, cope better with the life’s challenges and tap into their most resourceful states to unleash their full potential.
Reaching your full potential so you can lift the performance of your team and business can be achieved with the guidance of a skilled professional. His skills have been highly sought after by the All Blacks, The Canterbury Crusaders, Super 12 rugby team and the New Zealand Cricket Team. You will find Gilbert’s workshops ‘matter of fact’ and interactional providing you with the winning tools and skills used by many of our corporate and sporting heroes.
She has over twenty-five years of global experience in leadership and culture change. For the last 20+ years she has specialised in presenting the new paradigm she calls the Effortless Leadership Paradigm™ which is about simplifying how the mind works.
Commonwealth Games shot put champion, policewoman, media consultant, investigative journalist, TV frontperson and producer, talkback host and board member.
Graeme has faced and won some big challenges. Graeme is now in a wheelchair but is still producing television programmes. A really nice guy with fascinating stories of fishing, bear hunting etc
In 1980 Grant was approached by an amazing man, Bruce Hopkins, who could only move his head. Despite this apparently enormous disability he had an incredible presence. Bruce suggested that he try painting and proceeded to show him how to paint with a brush in his mouth.
Ian Ferguson is New Zealand's most successful athlete. He has won 4 Olympic gold medals and a silver, plus 5 World Championship medals for kayaking. He raced singles, doubles and fours, but was most famous as a duo with his doubles partner Paul MacDonald. In 1996 Ferg was awarded the Olympian of the Century award by New Zealand's Olympic Association.
As one of the most capped All Blacks ever (79 tests) Ian is one of New Zealand rugby’s greatest ever locks. He spent 3 years in the United Kingdom and now works as a comments man for Sky Television. Ian is an articulate and entertaining speaker.
James Castrission and Justin Jones earnt their place in history, when they became the first people to successfully kayak 3318km across the treacherous Tasman Sea. Staggering upon the shores of New Zealand the adventurers were sun-burnt, bearded, underweight, physically and mentally wasted … and most of all happy to be alive.
Janine has over 10 years experience in the fitness industry and during this time has compiled a list of achievements few encounter in a lifetime. Having began as an overweight, solo mother at the age of 20, Janine ran away to find a life.
Jason was a Super 12 rugby player whose story makes compelling listening. It tells of the courage and strength an individual can find when life deals out some cruel blows. Jason tells his story – as a professional rugby player who suffers the worst of all injuries, a broken neck. Listen as he begins a new career as a policeman – and then has to face life threatening brain surgery.
Jimi has some interesting stories, not only about depression, but more importantly about achieving your goals (he did build the World's Biggest Waterslide) and living more awesome. He inspires people to get up, get out and get stuff done. Everyone is capable of leading an amazing life, you just have to flip the switch and decide that from today on everything is going to be amazing. He has spoken at launches, conferences, fundraisers and more.
John Campbell has been a journalist and radio and television personality for over 30 years.
A top sports coach with a sports psychology background, John Shackleton shows international business audiences ideas and techniques that exercise and improve the biggest, most powerful muscle in the body: the brain.
Bringing a fresh perspective and undeniably impactful style, Julia will Engage, Educate, Encourage and even Entertain your group. Using her unique blend of Science, Story and Song, Julia draws from her lived experience with depression and anxiety, mental health qualifications, and 30 years in education. Her content is well-researched, up-to-date and grounded in practical application, her delivery is interactive, memorable and suitable for a wide range of audiences. She’ll probably make you laugh, she’ll possibly make you cry, but she will definitely send you away with practical mental health tools that you can use in your world straight away!
If you have Julie as your speaker you will see change as opportunity, get to laugh along with Julie as she tells you her hilarious adventures as a blind woman, become engaged with your life, work and community when you discover the two words that changed her life.
In 1995 with only $50 in his pocket, Justin Herald decided to start his own business. He had enough money to buy 4 blank t-shirts and have them printed with his logo. At last count, his company "Attitude" had sold over 150,000 units!
Justin Jones and James Castrission earnt their place in history, when they became the first people to successfully kayak 3318km across the treacherous Tasman Sea. Staggering upon the shores of New Zealand the adventurers were sun-burnt, bearded, underweight, physically and mentally wasted … and most of all happy to be alive.
Karen Scott is one of New Zealand’s most recognised business women renowned for her determination and passion to succeed in the competitive magazine world. Sales are her strength and Karen’s dream of owning her own magazine began when she found herself fully responsible for two young children and unable to find a publication that provided her with information about the city she was living in for the whole family. In 2003 she created Tots to Teens - a magazine that identified kid friendly locations, shops and events around Auckland. In recognition of her success Karen was named Her Business – (2005) Most Inspirational Role Model AND Best New Business. In 2006, Karen embarked on the next exciting chapter of her adventure by joining forces with Australian-based on-line parenting directory kidspot.com.au
A hugely experienced speaker and accomplished story-teller – Kevin is the author of three books (including the award winning ‘Oarsome Adventures of a Fat Boy Rower’) and has also presented on hit TVNZ documentary series' ‘First Crossings’ and 'Intrepid NZ'. Kevin will take your audience on a fast-paced unforgettable journey toward high performance.
Starting at the age of 14 Laura Dekker set off on her journey to sail solo around the world with the blessing of her parents, but not of the Dutch government. She completed the journey aged just 16 years old, proving all naysayers wrong.
In 2014 he turned his life around after hitting rock bottom while at university. He went onto win two gold medals and a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games. He also broke the previous Paralympic records held by Oscar Pistorius. His times on the track make him New Zealand’s second fastest 400m sprinter ever – legs or not.
Networking online or social media is fast becoming recognised as a new, additional, and exciting way of communication and doing business with others. By networking effectively in the right places, you can put yourself or your company on the radar of those that you wish to seek a business relationship with, all at your fingertips.
Linda Guirey is one of the most respected and sought-after experts on ‘Mindset’ and changing the way we think. She is an inspiring and compelling international speaker and trainer, who transforms and inspires people and organisations from the inside out.
Maria has spent 20 years learning about sales, marketing, advertising, branding and promotion. Her passion lies in helping to turn people on to their potential and achieve outstanding results in business.
Standing on the summit of Mount Everest has always been a boyhood dream, a dream that Mark thought he had lost in 1982 when as a Search and Rescue Mountaineer in New Zealand’s majestic Mount Cook National Park, He had a ‘hiccup’ in my climbing career, stuck in an ice cave dubbed ‘Middle Peak Hotel’ near the summit of Mount Cook for 14 days. As a result of this stay Mark lost both legs below the knees to frostbite.
He is an award-winning social researcher, best-selling author, and influential thought leader, and he is regularly commissioned to deliver strategy and advice to the boards and executive committees of some of Australia’s leading organisations.
Former captain of the New Zealand Men's Softball team, the Black Sox, who led his team to victory in three consecutive world championships. Listen to Mark tell of his inspirational and entertaining sporting experiences.
Mark has attended two summer Olympics as coach to the New Zealand Canoe Team including Paul MacDonald & Ian Ferguson and the 1994 Winter Olympics as trainer to the New Zealand World Record Ice Racing Team. He has six other World Champions to his credit as a coach, trainer or performance coach in five different sports. Mark has transitioned his Sports Coaching into Performance Coaching for Businesses and uses the tools and skills that his sportspeople have mastered into giving executives and business people the edge to win.
Very successful in her own business career, she speaks from experience. Marnie believes business is the art of getting what you want by doing what you are good at. She has a forward thinking approach to business issues including change, service and personal attitude. Formerly marketing manager at Victoria Park Market – she was responsible for the turn around of the market with a change of attitude and focus. Fantastic sales person, she is now doing very well in real estate.
Host of the ITM Fishing Show and famous for catching very large fish from very small vessels, Matt Watson has appeared on the David Letterman Show, 60 Minutes and BBC World amongst other shows.
Matthew has had more than his share of challenges. His recipe for success is not complex – a forward focused positive attitude and a lot of determination.
Jeweller - Michael seems to continue to make profits with his jewellery businesses both here and in Australia even when other retailers are struggling. Michael shares his marketing and success stories with delegates.
Michèle A’Court is a stand-up comedian, writer, and event MC / kaiwhakataki. Michèle was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2023 New Year’s Honours for her services to comedy and entertainment.
Dr Mike Ashby is an experienced business mentor and coach and the author of the book, Breakpoints: How to Shift Your Business to the Next Level. For more than 12 years, Dr Mike Ashby has been helping hundreds
of business owners grow their business and improve their lifestyle. Prior to owning his own business, Dr Mike
was COO at Southern Cross Healthcare where he was responsible for turning around a $42M loss into a $30M
profit in two years. Before that he was a partner at Ernst & Young Consulting in Wellington, leading the national
Strategy and Transformation team.
One of only 25 speakers Globally to have the CSP Global. Mike was NZ Speaker of the Year 2014 (other National Awards in 2007, 2009 & 2011). He has been mentioned by President Bill Clinton for his Philanthropic endeavours. He is the award winning author of 13 Books, a musician with 11 albums and a No#1 hit and consistently makes over $1m a year from speaking.
Mike is passionate about innovation and creativity, and his life is a living example of that.
In a previous life, Mike King was our very own comedic, cultural ambassador, performing at more international festivals than any other Kiwi comedian. He was a familiar face on New Zealand television, hosting numerous comedy series.
Personal and business success story - from very average scholastic results to a highly successful franchised mortgage broking business, plus interests in airlines and freight forwarding companies and his newly developed consumer protection business SafeKiwi.
Miriama Kamo is a highly experienced journalist and television presenter. Best known for hosting "Sunday". "20/20" and "Kiwi Living"
Murray's career is a success story. Murray was the Head of CBS Music, founder of Personalised Plates and now runs his own highly successful music business.
Award winning speaker and MC. Ngahihi was National Speakers Association New Zealand (Auckland) 2007 Master of Ceremonies of the Year and the 2007 Bright Star Speaker of the Year, 2008 Inspirational Speaker of the Year, 2008 Speaker of the Year and 2009 Master of Ceremonies of the Year. Ngahi has many years of speaking and leadership experience in the business, education and Maori sectors.
With a BA in Psychology and Post Graduate Diploma in Communication Management and Public Relations, Nic has helped audiences to face their fears and reach goals they thought impossible.
For team leader Nigel Cherrie, rowing into Auckland City on 20 January 2011 wasn't just the culmination of a two-month adventure on the Tasman Sea, it was the finish line of a five year journey to achieve a great life-changing goal. Nigel, with team-mates James Blake and Andrew McCowan, passed under the Auckland Harbour Bridge 55 days and two hours after leaving Australia- a 3,300km human-powered voyage. The team endured almost a month of torrid weather on the Tasman Sea, spending approximately 27 days at sea anchor as their 10.5m boat, The Moana, was tossed around by 4-6m seas and winds reaching 50 knots. But the perseverance required to cross the Tasman by oar power and eat cold food when they ran out of gas, was fuelled by five years of pursuing the dream, raising the sponsorship, building a team and overcoming every hurdle imaginable just to cross the Sydney Harbour start line.
Pat Mesiti has been dubbed "Mr. Motivation". And for good reason! He isn't just a speaker - he is a performer. Pat Mesiti comes to life when he sets foot on stage. His energy is incredible, drawing in crowds of thousands. Pat Mesiti's enthusiasm combined with his great sense of humour gives him the ability to move an audience into action as well as give them practical resources to help them achieve their goals. He is a gifted communicator and will add enormous value to any event you are organising. Dynamic - Entertaining – Unforgettable
Paul's presentations contain both motivational and educational aspects in equal parts. Ten years of real estate practice in London formed the basis of Paul's motivation, coaching and speaking career in New Zealand. More than two decades in the sales, goal setting and motivational fields have given him a keen understanding of personal achievement and business success.
Once the stereotypical marketing man – busy, overweight, stressed. You name it, that was him ! Then not long after his 40th Birthday – fast paced living caught up. Paul was diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer and given 6 months to live Describing it then as the “Wake up call from Hell” – he now refers to his cancer diagnosis as a gift that saved his life.
An amazing lady with a story of courage and fortitude and amazing achievement. Pauline entered the convent at the age of 17 and at the age of 29 found herself back within the secular world, having to begin her life all over again. Her daughter Mary had a stroke whilst still at primary school and Pauline talks about the effect that had on her and on Mary’s siblings. Whilst visiting Mary in Tauranga hospital she met a severely disabled man who changed her life. Her recent book and play ‘500 Letters’ tells the story of her 17-year friendship with him.
Founder of internationally successful brands Snowy Peak, Untouched World and MERINOMINK, will share her secrets behind her success, including the strategies she employed to position her brand globally, as well as the challenges and opportunities she has faced along the way
Peter Biggs is Chief Executive of one of the largest advertising agencies in Australia and winner of Campaign Brief Australian Agency of the Year for a record five years in a row and prior to that the agency he worked in Wellington was voted Agency of the Year in 2002 and 2004, and he was chosen as Agency Chief Executive of the Year in 2003.
He is Chair of the Board of Business at OECD, based in Paris, which is the representative of businesses in OECD member states. Until recently he was a member of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organisation based in Geneva and a member of the APEC Business Advisory Council. He is involved in the work of the B20 - advising G20 leaders.
Ralph specialises in the science of success. He has extensive experience in business and a background in psychology and journalism with Television New Zealand and the BBC. He is an inspirational and motivational speaker, with substance. Your attendees will leave your conference with simple, practical ideas they can use.
Acclaimed All Whites Coach and one of the stars of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Rob Hamill is a master of his mind, he will share and delight your audience with his stories of goal setting, planning, commitment and persistence.
In addition to teaching defensive tactics to undercover narcotic police in Los Angeles and performing sell-out talks at the Edinburgh Fringe in Scotland, Rob has been a guest speaker at over 1000 corporate events in 23 countries.
In 1995 he burst onto the New Zealand rowing scene as the youngest person ever to win the single sculls title at the New Zealand Championships – he did this as a novice sculler. In the two years that followed, Rob won gold at the World Championships in Germany and Canada breaking records on the water. His rowing career was topped off with an Olympic Gold at Sydney 2000.
With extensive educational experience, Roseann has written and presented a number of communication programmes.
He has lived his life in the public eye and built a career doing service to others. His relentless energy to mobilise people around ideas has a magic ability in building movements that matter! Farm boy turned social entrepreneur, Sam’s kaupapa is using the power of the collective to overcome the bureaucratic - shifting our belief system about what is possible.
World champion cyclist and Gold Medalist at the Athens Olympics, Sarah Ulmer ONZM has what it takes to persist and achieve goals.
In 1977 Colin Quincey, Shaun’s father became the first man to row solo from New Zealand to Australia taking a grueling 63 days and 7 hours. In March 2010 Shaun stepped up to be the second man in history and first to row from Australia to New Zealand to conquer the Tasman Sea. Shaun’s epic voyage took 2 years of planning and 54 days of rowing in the world’s most dangerous ocean departing from Coffs Harbor and narrowly hitting the northern tip of ninety mile beach.
Sian inspires and empowers business leaders and individuals from all walks of life to be more effective in their decision making, both professional and personal. Being confident enough to take responsibility for significant choices is something we all face. Her clients describe Sian as ‘real’ – as Sian tells it as it is, ‘it’ being your life, with pragmatism, humour and pinpoint perception. What do you really want out of life? It’s about making - Real Choices for a Real Life.
The former captain of the All Blacks still has a high profile from his legendary playing days, his battle with cancer, his charity appearances and his work with prostate cancer awareness.
His coaching and motivation of the World Champion Seven's side made him a legend in the sport. He has four Commonwealth Games Gold Medals to prove it!
Sir Ray Avery was named the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year 2010. The award recognises Kiwis who make a major contribution to the nation and inspire through their achievements. He was awarded the Sir Peter Blake medal for leadership in the same year. In 2011, Sir Ray was named “most trusted person” in New Zealand.
Sue coaches achievers from around the world in identifying the keys and strategies to acquire the success, performance and happiness they desire. She shows people that success is not luck, it’s about using your internal and external resources to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. She works as a seminar leader and elite success coach and frequently speaks on the international speaking circuit, helping organisations, companies and achievers in NZ, Asia, USA and UK improve their performance and results.
Winner of the New Zealand Young Executive of the Year, Southlander of the Year, Direct Marketer of the Year finalist and winner of the World Young Business Achievers award in Beijing China. And that’s just some of the recognition received for this inspiring New Zealander’s dynamic approach to life and business.
Theresa Gattung is a leading New Zealand business personality and author of her best-selling autobiography Bird on a Wire. Named in Fortune magazine’s list of the 50 most powerful women in international business several times since 2002, she was also included in Forbes’ list of the world’s 50 most powerful women across any sphere in 2006.
Tom has also been featured more than 150 times in various publications and media including Management Magazine, TV3, SkyTV, Next Magazine, the Dominion, Christchurch Press and the Asia Pacific Post.
Tom Sharplin is one of New Zealand’s most renowned rock legends. Tom made his mark on the Kiwi music scene in the early 1970’s and has since been regarded as one of the most authentic rockers of his time.
is a powerful motivational speaker, stockbroker and businessman. He inspires audiences with his passion for achieving against adversity. Crippled at birth and battling dyslexia throughout his childhood, he beat horrendous odds to win numerous national dance titles as a teenager before becoming New Zealand’s first male tap dancing teacher and has recently set a Guinness world record as the fastest tap dancer in the world.
The Scaffolding which Tony scales to present from are a stunning start to the roller coaster of emotions which Tony takes you through ,you will LAUGH you will CRY and you NEVER FORGET TONY CHRISTIANSEN!!
Nine 'start up' companies in 16 years has got to come with some great stories! It comes with some scars too. Troy's experience in business and marketing, has given him the opportunity to address many small business, franchise and multi national groups around the world on a range of business topics. He has been Co-Host on ‘Inside Franchising’, a national TV show on Network Ten which delivers news, views and stories from the franchise community. His keynote and workshop presentations contain a combination of the information he has collected from some of the planets brightest and most successful business people, and lessons learnt from his own businesses over the last twenty years. Troy has joined Channel 9’s newest national business show, ‘Don’t Come Monday’ as the resident business expert.
A master educator, his teaching style is engaging, practical, human and powerful. World leading management thinkers such as Stephen Covey and Edward de Bono praise his work.
The former captain of the All Blacks still has a high profile from his battle with cancer, his charity appearances and his work with prostate cancer awareness
William is an accomplished inspirational speaker who doesn’t retell stories, he relives them. In 2007, William almost lost his life in a volcanic eruption on Mt. Ruapehu. Doctors noted William’s survival as a miracle. William’s obsession for the outdoors, education and seeing life’s challenges as opportunities to try again have helped him overcome adversity more than once.
Several times each year he talks to Bachelor of Nursing students. All of his presentations are either on advertising (Not-for-Profit related), communication theory, direct-marketing, or, what some people may find a strange combination, social science. But that's what affected his life. Of course he also talks about stroke (CVA). As his stroke affected his life in a major way. Whoever the audience, he fine-tunes his presentations to their requirements.
Ten years later Yossi returned to the Amazon and made it his home. Working with indigenous forest dwellers for three years they built Cha-la-lan, a model eco-tourism village that inspired the entire Amazon basin and the world. The following decade of his life he dedicated to the treatment and rehabilitation of opiate addicts around the world.
As a professional speaker she focuses on Generation Y, teaching companies how to get the best from their young workforce. Most Gen Y ‘experts’ talk about the ‘them and us’ phenomenon, and theorise about this generation’s thoughts and attitudes. Zuza doesn’t speak from theory, she knows about Gen Y because she IS Gen Y. She knows the topic from the inside out, she lives and breathes it, she understands their thinking, their ideas and their motivations because they are her own. In her keynote “Y’d Awake”, Zuza shares her insider’s knowledge of Gen Y, gives refreshing, honest and uncompromising truths about her generation and supplies her audience with relevant and up to date solutions to their Gen Y problems
Andrew has managed businesses across Australia and New Zealand and is passionate in presenting his unique thoughts on life, business and personal change.
In his two years as President elect and President, Bill and Lorna were based in Evanston, Illinois and travelled about two thirds of the time. They visited 40 countries and Bill spoke to many thousands of Rotarians, saw hundreds of service projects and met many influential leaders.
What do you do when they don't like hip hop, are resistant to change and aren't committed to the goal?
‘I am already a winner. I won the most important battle of my life – cancer’. ‘Never settle for being average - being there just to make up the numbers is not enough’.
Claire is the Nutritionist for Healthy Food Guide magazine, TVNZ Breakfast and Newstalk ZB as well as featuring in three prime time TV shows. Claire is also the owner and director of the private nutrition practice and corporate wellness company.
More than just a completely captivating recount of the day this Special Tasks and Rescue (STAR) Group Police Officer was shot 14 times, in less than 5 seconds, with a high-powered rifle and left lying at deaths door for 3 hours before he could be rescued. This is an exceptionally empowering, remarkably moving and surprisingly funny insight into the human spirit rising above adversity and performing well beyond expectations. This is about a man harnessing the power of optimism, passion, contingency planning, goal setting, dreaming big and the ultimate in resilience to achieve the extraordinary.
His presentation is supported by some of the best adventure footage shot anywhere in the world.
Jamie is one of New Zealand’s most sought after management consultants and keynote speakers, is a modern-day pioneer, and has helped thousands of people around the world bridge the gap between strategy, leadership and creating a high-performance culture.
Because of her serious injuries, doctors predicted that Janine wouldn’t live, then that she would not be able to walk or bear children. However, Janine refused to accept this and focused every sinew of her being on healing her broken body. In addition to walking again, Janine is the mother of 3 children and a commercial pilot.
Despite suffering horrific injuries Jason risked his own life to rescue two sisters from the burning wreckage and then gave up his seat on an evacuation aircraft to those he believed were worse off than himself. Returning to Australia with extensive burns, Jason lapsed into a weeklong coma he was administered the last rites but fought back. His determination to survive and win the battle for recovery against his terrible injuries saw him not only make it to his wedding on time and but to once again play Australian football.
A former ABC foreign correspondent and the longest serving reports on Australia's ‘Sixty Minutes” Jeff has been at the forefront of television journalism for ore than 30 years. From war zones to natural disasters to scientific wonders, medical miracles, sporting triumphs to murder most foul, Jeff has delivered some of the most outstanding television the world has seen.
As a psychologist and long term multi trauma patient with experience of the health care sector at just about every level of care, Kathy offers a unique perspective of health care that is based on both professional and personal experience. It is a perspective that few other speakers can offer.
Is one of the world’s great thinkers and communicators. A foremost speaker on global issues, as well as a highly regarded social commentator, strategic planner, writer and broadcaster, Dr Suter appears on radio an average of once per day, and is recognisable as the global issues/foreign affairs presenter on Channel 7’s “Sunrise” programme. Keith has an extraordinary mind and extensive knowledge; his expertise covers International Affairs, Law, Society, Leadership, Business, and the Future.
Kirsty Dunphey has first and foremost always been entrepreneurial. From her start at an early age working in her parents small businesses or opening her first business at 15 – she’s had the bug her whole life. With two businesses and two part time jobs under her belt at the age of 15 to her own real estate agency at 21 Kirsty has been described as “Little bit Aussie Battler, Little bit Sassy Entrepreneur”.
With over 20 years of policing experience, 13 of those as a crisis negotiator, Lance combines advanced communication techniques, safety awareness, and personal resilience support practices for everyday use to keep ourselves safe.
Li Cunxin (pron “Lee Schwunsin”) is a remarkable man borne of a remarkable story. He is a very special speaker who talks passionately and most modestly about his achievements.
Lisa Er began her food business making hummus at home for family and friends. At that time she was teaching part time and her youngest of three sons had just started school. Now she employees 30 staff and her products are sold in 92% of New Zealand’s supermarkets. The company boasts a 42% value share of the chilled dips market. Lisa’s story tells of how she grew a business from a great recipe.
Lisa was born with a physical eye defect that has shaped her life. Born into a family of sporting professionals, she wanted to understand why some people succeed while others do not and this determination led her to specialise in human performance and sports psychology. Lisa is extremely motivational, and has committed her life to help improve the lives of others. A very special lady and author of 6 books she can tailor a presentation specifically for you.
Maggie's areas of specialty are presentation skills, media relations, image consultancy and personal development. Her unique ability to motivate and empathise stems from her awareness of human dynamics, personal development and over 20 years of experience working in theatre education and the performing arts.
Margot’s work in organisational transformation has the proven, researched capacity to turn companies around on both tight financial and time frameworks. Recently Margot has been awarded the honour of being included as one of “2000 Outstanding Intellectuals of the 21st Century”, a credit bestowed on only 2000 of the world’s foremost contemporary thinkers.
Martin speaks on customer service and works with sportsmen up to international level. Martin teaches people how to understand the ego of their clients and how to generate repeat and referral business. Martin studied psychology and marketing at University of NSW. He spent some years in sales and marketing with Colgate Palmolive before setting up Success Communications in 1985. Martin’s outstanding results with over 500 companies across more than 100 industries have made him one of Australia’s most in-demand speakers.
Martin Snedden is an in demand keynote speaker, sharing his internationally acclaimed success story from the RWC 2011.
As well as her very successful business career as General Manager and Marketing Manager for large corporate companies, her sales experience, in the last ten years Mary has had over nine million dollars worth of real estate transactions (including buying and selling residential, commercial and rental properties), She has seventeen years working with direct sellers and is the author of an internationally distributed book on the topic.
Mary Quin was one of a group of 16 tourists taken hostage in Yemen by local militants. Mary’s dramatic escape during a gun battle between the militants and the Yemen army, in which four tourists were killed and two wounded, made headline news around the world.
Mary-Alice Arthur developed and launched the concept of Event Tourism and initiated and managed the internationally recognised KiwiHost customer service programme over its first five years.
He is the founder and chairman of Thought Leaders and is consistently voted as one of Australia’s top conference speakers. He is the 2014/15 Australian Speaker of the Year and has recently been named one of the top ten motivational speakers in the world by E-speakers, the peak global event industry body.
Has more than 25 years experience in business and IT, often blending the two to identify strategic opportunities for the use of technology. He is a business strategist, a marketing specialist, a business mentor, an entrepreneur, and an investor.
She has extensive first-hand experience in building teams and developing business strategies, and a high awareness of social responsibility in business with a penchant for entrepreneurship and innovation.
Michael Groom is unquestionably one of the world’s greatest 'big' mountain climbers. In 1999 he successfully climbed Makalu, the smallest and for Michael, the last of the 'big five' - the five highest mountains in the world. Makalu, Lhotse, Kangchenjunga, K2 and Everest. Michael climbed them all without the assistance of bottled oxygen, and all but Kangchenjunga he climbed without the front third of both feet.
Tourism Entrepreneur- founder of Tamaki Maori Village, which is now a family run business that employs 120 staff turning over in excess of $10 million. In 1998 Tamaki Maori Village was the Overall Supreme Tourism Award Winner at the NZ Tourism Awards.
Nats was a shy teenager who found confidence through exercise to music. Nats works for Les Mills and with this company has presented many of their classes on the international stage working as a presenter and trainer.
In 1984 Patricia Cameron-Hill and Shayne Yates changed their career directions as a nurse and doctor to establish their own business in Melbourne. Since then they have inspired, informed and entertained thousands of people worldwide, with their unique presentations. Their ideas have helped people in government; professions and private industry make better use of their time.
Paul speaks on relevant topics for today based on his personal experiences. He has been in management since he was 22 years old in Australia and came to New Zealand over 10 years ago where he held the Chief Executive role at Omegatrend before taking up the role of CEO at Bartercard New Zealand in June 2007.
On December 26th 1998, 114 Yachts left Sydney harbour in the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race- only 44 finished. Of the remaining vessels, 12 yachts were abandoned, 5 yachts sank, 6 men lost their lives and over 50 yachtsmen had to be winched to safety. The event is recognised as one of the worst Maritime disasters in Australian history. Peter Davidson, paramedic aboard the first rescue helicopter to reach survivors, talks about what it took to rescue men from the stricken vessels in the midst of some of the worst conditions in sailing history
Ray Pitch has over 25 years experience in the computer and information technology field. He is an international speaker and seminar leader focusing on the non-technical and managerial side of information technology, encouraging organisations to examine and use technology to leverage sustainable competitive advantage for their businesses.
His main topics focus on customer service, creating "magic moments”, company culture, and sales. He believes “people make more happen”
After a 2.2m fall in 2004 Rhett Brown became paralysed. He has has a new career path as a professional speaker, talking to corporate and industry groups about the consequences – the end result of a serious work place accident. This talk will amaze you with insight; candid gritty insight of how Rhett now lives and manages is daily routine. His body is broken, but the spirit and will to strive is still strong.
Ric Charlesworth is a doctor of medicine and a former captain of the Australian Hockey Team, the Western Australian State Hockey Team and Cricket Team. He played hockey for Australia for a record 16 years. His coaching formula is part of the reason for the sustained success of the team at Atlanta and Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. For 8 consecutive years the team was ranked number one in the world. He won Australian Team Coach of the Year six times in 1994. In 2005 Ric was selected as Western Australia’s greatest ever hockey player and also Western Australia’s greatest ever coach. He was appointed as the High Performance Manager of New Zealand Cricket and took up that position in October
Richard is an Associate Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Management. He spent 6 years as General Manager of a major Australian Credit bureau before forming his own credit agencies in New Zealand. Richard was a Director of Creditcorp Services Ltd and National President of the New Zealand Credit and Finance Institute
Rev. Richard Randerson CNZM is Dean of Auckland’s Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell. As Anglican priest and bishop over 40 years he has exercised a diverse ministry at the cutting edge with community, commerce and governments, both in NZ and overseas. In all such endeavours he has sought to bring a strong social and ethical dimension to policy, working with decision-makers in the private and public sectors to integrate enterprise with social concern.
The accolades Robyn Williams receives for his knowledge and genial delivery are almost outdone by accolades in academic circles. Williams was the first and only journalist to be elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science; he has been a fellow at Oxford twice; and is a Professor at the University of Qld and UNSW. He has received 5 honorary doctorates (Deakin University, Sydney, Macquarie, ANU and UNSW). He is a science heavyweight who has a light touch with audiences.
One of the most successful All Black Captains, credited by most with the leadership abilities that made the All Blacks the great team they were when they won the World Cup.
Gliding over the finish line at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games saw Steven’s name etched into the history books. Skating in the 1000m final and in fifth place, the unthinkable happened. The race favourite and the other three skaters ahead of Steven, fell in a tangle of skates and arms and legs on the ice. Leaving the path clear for Steven, he glided across the finish line in first place and became the first ever Australian to win a Winter Olympic Gold Medal!
If you ask Terry what her speciality is she will tell you PEOPLE, whether it be discussing the more cutting edge sales techniques or teambuilding, her audience walk away inspired and motivated. Australian based, she is one of those people who has such an impact on her audience that she can deliver a message that you will remember forever. She specialises in all areas of people performance including communication, team building, leadership, sales skills, conflict resolution, time effectiveness and personal development.
There is a real concern amongst leaders that their people are unfit for change, stuck or settling for average. Picture your people leaving your event energised, having actively participated in discovering in themselves new skills & confidence they can apply straight away.
The “Power of Commitment” enabled Tony Mowbray to become the fastest Australian to sail solo non stop and unassisted around the world. A record-breaking 180-day adventure that required total focus and unswerving self-belief. It also gave Tony the opportunity to “Look It In The Eye” when he finished some unfinished business in the 2001 Sydney to Hobart yacht classic. Tony and his crew on board “Solo Globe Challenger” were part of the 1998 Sydney to Hobart fleet, which encountered the worst race conditions on record. Little did Tony know that within 24 hours of the start he and his crew would be fighting a 15-hour battle of life or death – nature was asking them to reach further within themselves than they ever had before. “Solo Globe Challenger” surfed down the face of a 60-foot wave upside down after a monumental knock down. In 160 km/hr winds Tony “could see and smell death in the water”. As Tony says “the devil took me by the hand and led me to the edge of a huge precipice and made me stand there on tippy toes for 15 hours – he allowed me to walk away but tragically 6 men died throughout that afternoon and the next day”. The fight for life was won but Tony’s dream of sailing around the world was shattered. His boat was all but a wreck as he was physically and mentally. Within 4 months Tony’s spirit had reignited the flame of a solo world circumnavigation. His boat was rebuilt and he left Australia in search of some answers.
This super motivated woman is a mum to 4 children – two with cystic fibrosis who constantly need medical and hospital treatment. In 2002 she ‘hit the wall’. She was hugely overweight and suffering from ‘chronic sorrow’ where a person lives with someone else’s illness on a daily basis. She joined a gym and read an advertisement for a ‘Special K’ Triathlon and that changed her life.
If you desire an MC that will wow your audience and make them feel like they are valued and part of something truly special then Walter is your guy! After 10 years of starring on popular TV shows such as Sticky TV and Dancing With the Stars, Walter has learnt how to engage an audience and entertain with his high energy and likeability!
Inspired by many years of experience as a lawyer, Amy realised how miscommunications affected relationships in families and workplaces and thus the mental health of our people. She set out on a mission to learn how to teach effective communication to ensure our people thrived. Today, she's assisted thousands of people to overcome their mental blocks, saved relationships, built better work places and ultimately made people happier and healthier. That's her mission and that is why she continues to teach, support, mentor and inspire.
Denise is outspoken, and often sought for her opinion from fashion to politics and everything in between.
Born in Christchurch in 1993, Sophie was accidentally run over by a ride-on lawnmower, resulting in both her legs being caught under the cutter deck housing in the path of the rotating mower blades. As a result of the accident, her left leg was to be amputated below the knee, while the rear of her right leg was left with severe scarring. She began swimming at age 7.
Regardless of industry, every business needs to take on new challenges or tackle entrenched issues from time to time. It could be moving off a sales plateau and breaking through to a higher level of success. It might involve re-tooling processes to operate more productively. It could mean unleashing the talents of your team to achieve more.
Davey and his wife Margaret have built a lasting outdoor clothing empire on their proudly 'made in New Zealand' brand. Davey knows a thing or two about research. The former possum trapper is the key designer for his clothing range and often manages to personally trial the wet-weather and wind-proof gear - the company now exports to 23 countries including Scandinavia, the US and Australia.
"WHILE WE CANNOT CONTROL OUR LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES, WE CAN CONTROL OUR RESPONSES"
At 18, Dr Wood was an unemployed high-school dropout. His mother was dying of cancer, and he had turned to drugs to cope. Three days after his mother died, he killed a drug dealer who tried to sexually assault him.
Weaving a tale of his journey on a road less travelled, audiences discover his early life as a bullied choirboy given little encouragement, to his time with infamous NZ bikie gang Highway 61, to international operatic tenor.
Hugh is Britain’s most successful male mogul skier and is a commentator on winter sports. He made the semi-finals at the1992 and 1994 Winter Olympic Games. He competed on the World Cup circuit for four years making ten top 25 results. He won the British senior title four times and he has three Commonwealth titles. Now he commentates and mentors.
Ageless super shooter Irene van Dyk had a huge impact on Netball, almost single-handedly changing the way it was played, both in New Zealand and around the world, while contributing immensely to its growing popularity.
James has won seven world championship titles as a musician, made world history by leading his underdog kiwi team to world champion victory, hosts global leaders in his sold out high performance leadership programme and is the mental skills coach for Canterbury Rugby.
Having overcome childhood sexual abuse, mental illness and multiple suicide attempts, Jazz Thornton has now dedicated her life to speaking hope and creating change in the area of mental health through her organisation Voices of Hope.
Jessica had been in London only four months when she was diagnosed with an uncommon form of aggressive breast cancer in June 2013. She was on the other side of the world away from her friends and family. She was lost, confused and about to face the biggest challenge of her life. So many questions and so many decisions needed to be made and fast.
Engage, inspire and entertain your team or audience with a presentation that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Johny is an in-demand international speaker who delivers tailor-made talks and keynotes aimed at disrupting the status quo and provoking innovative thinking in life and business.
She shares openly and honestly using her personal journey with clinical anxiety and depression, combined with an Education Psych focus all wrapped up in a whole lot of FUN!
Karen is known for her engaging, entertaining and practical presentations. She has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the business and has been recognised as a Certified Speaking Professional – an honour held by only the top 1% of speakers worldwide.
Katie is a Chartered Accountant (with a personality) and a Registered Financial Advisor with more than 17 years’ experience working in the business and financial industry.
Lisa’s sessions are always tailored to the industry and audience at your event.
Marty has spoken to over 500,000 people since he first leapt up on stage in 1997. In his first 12 months Marty won Australian Comic of the Year competition, appeared on the Aussie Footy Show, and was invited to the UK to become a full time Stand Up. He returned home 2007 is now the bestselling author of 18 books and a powerful keynote speaker and brilliant MC.
Mike Allsop grew up in a single parent home in Auckland. Life wasn’t always easy.
She was also born with weak eyesight, underdeveloped lungs, and holes in her heart. She moved to NZ aged 4 but had problems at school due to her weaknesses in English, sports, and making friends. People found it hard to accept her because of her differences. She used to pass time by reading in the library every lunch time.
Influenced by her background as a clinical dietitian, Nadia is a strong advocate for creating healthy and nutritious recipes using unprocessed and natural ingredients. As a Co-Founder of My Food Bag, Nadia has helped solve the “what’s for dinner?” dilemma for thousands of kiwi families every night.
Pallas offers audiences actionable tips and valuable tools to live an extraordinary life - a life that pops with passion, purpose and personality.
In 2014, Bruce "Pic" Picot sold his millionth jar of peanut butter.
After claiming New Zealand's first Cycling Track Sprint Olympic Medal in London, Simon was asked to trial, develop, and train the sailors for the Americas Cup Cyclor innovation.
Under his stewardship, the All Blacks held the Bledisloe Cup every year since 2003, won the Investec Tri Nations five times and achieved three Grand Slams against the Northern Hemisphere Home Unions. He was named IRB Coach of the Year a record five times.
Ian was brought up in a small East Coast village on the North Island of New Zealand. He was seven when electricity arrived at his home. It was 1957. The telephone arrived a couple of years later. He didn't know it at the time but three years after he got electricity at his house, New Zealand got its first computer.
Steffi August emerged from behind the Iron Curtain, the oppression of the communist enclave of East Berlin, the Soviet occupied sector of the city during the cold war. Her early life was minimalist, structured and controlled.
He is a results-focused senior executive with demonstrable business acumen and key competencies in business, operational management and leadership development of teams.
