Interim Chair
Josh is originally from the UK and is a qualified winemaker with an honours degree in winemaking and viticulture. He has a wide range of international experience, having made wine in the UK, Greece, California, Germany, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand. He came to Marlborough for a short-term winemaking contract but was struck by the dramatic beauty of the region and decided to stay. It is now very much his turangawaewae, his place to stand. He is currently winemaker at Huia Estate Vineyards, a small organic winery in Rapaura.
He is passionate about the transformational power of education and mentorship, and he serves on the committees for Marlborough Young Winemaker of the Year, Sunbelt Toastmasters. He also volunteers regularly as a wine judge and on various sensory panels. He joined Volunteer Marlborough to give back to the community he loves as well as improve his understanding of governance.
Josh lives in Blenheim with his wife and two daughters.
Fun fact: Josh recently became a New Zealand citizen, completing his affirmation in te reo Māori - a language he is determined to get better at.
Secretary
Emma grew up in Marlborough before completing her degree at University of Canterbury in 2016. She is now a practicing lawyer at the region's largest firm, Gascoigne Wicks. Prior to this, she worked for the local Council for 2 years. She specialises in resource management and environmental law.
Emma was drawn back to Marlborough by her family ties and love of the lifestyle. Giving back to the community that raised her is also really important, hence Emma's interest in Volunteer Marlborough.
Emma lives on a vineyard with her partner, Rob, and their three fur babies. In her spare time, Emma gets out on the walking tracks, hits a spin or pilates class, and loves a good book to wind down.
Fun fact: for a time, Emma was also a registered celebrant!