Our organisation is a charitable trust.
Our trustees have been chosen to reflect their deep understanding of aviation in New Zealand, their connection to General Aviation and to bring skills to the table which provide the right balance around the Trust’s board room table. The trustees are supported by a part-time professional staff member.
Mandy Deans – Chair
Mandy has a deep history with aviation in New Zealand, for 14 years being the full time event manager of the famous Warbirds Over Wanaka air show. She has strong connections within the industry and a detailed understanding of the opportunities and challenges of working within aviation in New Zealand. Mandy is also involved in Uplift in Kind – a charity which delivers awesome aviation experiences for those who are unwell or doing it tough.
Louise Aubrey – Trustee
Lou has a professional background in the agricultural industry – focussed on the environment. She has community governance experience. She has been an active member of the General Aviation community since before she could walk. She is a mother of two busy children and cares passionately about the future of General Aviation in New Zealand. Lou is based in Wānaka.
Ian Sinclair – Trustee
Ian is on the executive of AOPA NZ, and is the organisation’s representative on the trust. Ian is a pilot, an aviation enthusiast and understands the aviation community very well. He has worked on many projects which benefit the General Aviation community in New Zealand, and is passionate about getting more people – including youth – into GA. He also brings IT systems expertise to the board, and frequently attends industry events.
Richard Bradley – Trustee
A lifelong Hawke’s Bay farmer with deep family roots, he brings extensive business experience and a strong belief in sound governance. Introduced to aviation through a scholarship in the 1970s, he went on to fly widely, serve on the AOPA NZ committee, and lead the organisation through challenging times. Although no longer flying as PIC, he remains an engaged member and is committed to supporting the Trust’s future.
Dan Clearwater – Executive Officer
Dan spent 15 years in the RNZAF, mostly flying Iroquois helicopters for No.3 Squadron. Over the last decade, he’s worked for various charitable trusts and non-government organisations in operations, governance, marketing and communications roles. These days, Dan flies paragliders near his home in Wānaka. Dan is a part-time staff member, supporting the work of the Trustees. Office@thinkaviation.nz
