Hi, I’m Denny Laird. Originally from Scotland, I came to New Zealand 19 years ago for what was supposed to be a quick snowboarding trip in Queenstown. Spoiler alert: I never left. One winter turned into eight years in Queenstown, and now Tāmaki Makaurau is home.

My career started in tourism and hospitality, where I picked up a variety of skills (and some great stories). That experience eventually set me up to become a trainer at the New Zealand School of Tourism. Teaching was a totally new world for me, but it turned out to be an amazing way to share my love for the industry—and keep learning myself. Along the way, I earned my National Certificate in Adult Teaching (Level 4) and my National Certificate in Adult Literacy & Numeracy Education (Level 5).

These days, I get to combine my love for outdoor adventure and education with Te Mahi Ako. I still get to connect with ākonga, help them see their potential, and support them in growing their skills for work and life. Honestly, I feel pretty lucky to do what I do—and still try to sneak in the occasional adventure on the side!