At the close of nominations for the parent election, we received 15 nominations for five parent representative positions. We have now moved to a voting election.
Mike Brown
Tēnā koutou,
Thank you for taking the time to consider my continued involvement with Wellington Girls’ College (WGC).
My wife Megan and I are proud parents to Isla (Year 10) and Neve (Year 8 - who will be joining WGC in 2026). I was born in Dunedin, where I studied law and geography, but Wellington—and Brooklyn in particular—has been our home for the past 22 and 15 years respectively.
I first joined the WGC Sports Committee as a parent representative in early 2024 and was co-opted onto the full WGC Board in September 2024. I currently serve on both the Sports and School Property Committees. Since 2018, I’ve also served on the Brooklyn School Board and in September will be concluding my final 18 months there as Presiding Member (Chairperson).
I have a deep passion for sport and the wide-ranging opportunities it offers our Tamariki. This commitment is reflected in my active involvement in coaching and supporting the current (and future!) WGC sports community. I currently coach both Isla’s (10A) and Neve’s (Brooklyn #1) netball teams, and regularly assist the rowing squad as a parent volunteer. Outside of my family and school commitments, I work at KiwiRail, where I’m leading the development of a long-term master plan to assist in guaranteeing the enduring success of rail in Aotearoa. This work supports the multi-billion-dollar Crown investment in rail infrastructure across the motu.
My guiding principle is simple: to do my very best with the resources I have available. I apply this philosophy across all areas of my life—at home, in my professional career, and in my governance roles. I take pride in working through complex challenges, analysing options, and identifying solutions that reduce cost and add value—skills I know make a tangible difference for the WGC community. I’m excited about the opportunity to continue serving WGC, applying my skills in a way that upholds the values of Manaakitanga, Manawaroa, Ngākau Pono, and Whakarangatira—ensuring our students continue to thrive, grow, and excel as empowered wāhine who contribute meaningfully to their communities and to Aotearoa.
Ngā mihi nui, Mike Brown
Tēnā tātou e te whānau,
He uri ahau no Tonga me Te Rarawa hoki. Ko Koro Vaka’uta tōku ingoa.
Firstly, a little bit about my whānau: my pāpā came from Tonga to Aotearoa in the 60s, my mother is a wahine toa from Te Rarawa in the far north and has family connections to east London. I was born and bred in Wellington and have a passion for the city and its people. My wife and I have one daughter, (Havana), who has been journeying through life at WGC for nearly four years.
I am seeking a second term as a parent representative on the school board. I was initially co-opted in August 2024 as a Pacific Parent Representative and have enjoyed working alongside a brilliant group who have met some hefty challenges head-on. I am deeply invested in the future of our school and the continued success of every ākonga.
What I bring to the table is over 14 years of experience in broadcasting, communications, and leadership, a wealth of strategic thinking, relationship management, and collaborative skills. Much of this was developed while leading a small but impactful group of journalists at RNZ Pacific.
I have worked at the Human Rights Commission as Lead Advisor to the Race Relations Commissioner, advocating for equity, justice, and social cohesion. These experiences have shaped my commitment to inclusivity, respect, and meaningful dialogue.
WGC’s values of Manaakitanga, Manawaroa, Ngākau pono, and Whakarangatiratanga align strongly with mine. I have spent my career building understanding across communities and listening to a range of perspectives, bringing me to my current role as Manager of Community Communications at Wellington City Council.
The school board has a vital role in maintaining a learning environment where every student feels seen, valued, and inspired.
I am committed to ensuring that our college upholds high standards in education while nurturing a culture of respect, inclusivity, and well-being.
As a communicator, I listen and respond thoughtfully. As a leader, I work collaboratively to find solutions and build connections. As a parent, I care about helping WGC remain a place where our daughters can flourish as confident, resilient, and empathetic people ready to lead Aotearoa into the future.
I recognise the privilege it is to represent our parent community and would be honoured to do it again and contribute to the continued success of Wellington Girls’ College.
Mauri ora, Koro Vaka'uta
Koro Vaka'uta
Larry Junior Lemanutau
I am honoured to be a father and to see my daughters grow. I am a proud Aotearoa born Samoan and have a passion for youth development. I have been a part of the School boards and school governance, and I have also enjoyed being a supportive parent on Pasifika Navigators and coaching and managing sports teams here at WGC. I believe my experiences in supporting learners in Alternative Education and in tertiary can support the kaupapa of Te Kura Manawaroa. I hope to strengthen the mental health component of our young women AND staff, and to continue to nurture a space of manawaroa within our kura, and the lives of our young women.
Faafetai mo le avanoa
Larry Junior Lemanutau
Ko Amy Brier tōku ingoa.
My eldest daughter is currently year 10 at WGC, and my second daughter will join in 2026. Through the kids, we’ve been part of the Ngaio, Rāroa Normal Intermediate, and Wadestown school communities (my youngest is currently year 6 at Wadestown). At Ngaio, I was the Netball Coordinator and a member of Northern Suburbs Netball Committee for three years. I was also a member of the Ngaio Kindergarten Parent’s Association. I’ve coached and managed sports teams and am currently getting ready to head to AIMs games with Rāroa (wish me luck driving a van full of kids to the Mount!).
In my free time, I enjoy supporting the Pulse and the Silver Ferns, running the trails of Te Ahumairangi with my dog, and catching up with friends.
I was co-opted onto the WGC Board earlier this year, after joining the Sports Committee in 2024. I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to support the school, and have been impressed by the leadership at WGC, the calibre of our kaiako, the range of subjects and activities offered, and the commitment to resolving the building issues.
With close to 20 years (!) of working at Parliament, I’m just around the corner from WGC. I’ve worked in various roles across three agencies (Parliamentary Service, Office of the Clerk, and Ministerial Services). As a Deputy Chief Executive, I’m responsible for several functions - the Parliamentary Library, Public Engagement, Finance, Information Systems and Technology, and Member and Support Staff services.
As a member of the WGC Board, I’ll be able to utilise my experience in governance, strategic planning, engagement, financial management, working with government agencies, and dealing with earthquake-prone buildings; in addition to supporting WGC’s close connection to Parliament, a place that influences our kura.
As a proud product of an all-girls’ school, I’m keen to ensure that our young wāhine have the support and opportunities to grow, succeed, and be proud of who they are and where they come from as students of WGC.
Ngā mihi nui for considering me as a Board representative.
Amy Brier
Amy Brier
Huia Forbes
No Waikato - Maniapoto au, ko Pirongia te maunga, ko Kawhia te moana, ko Ngāti Hikairo te iwi, ko Karioi te maunga, ko Whaingaroa te moana, ko Tainui Awhiro te hapū.
Tēnā koutou e te whānau o WGC, my name is Huia Forbes and I have lived in Wellington for 9 years after returning to NZ from a long stint in the UK. My husband grew up here and we are connected to our community and committed to its ongoing success.
I have two children at WGC, one in year 13 – preparing to make the move to University - and the other in year 10, grappling with subject choices as she moves into her senior years. Professionally, I am a public servant working for the Department of Conservation, and I have previously served on the Board of Trustees for Wadestown School.
Governance of a school like WGC is a significant responsibility. The school is a large employer and operates within an ever-changing regulatory environment. It also has a significant building programme underway and has a large range of neighbours while sitting on Te Atiawa land. All of these factors must be understood while fulfilling the primary responsibility of teaching, guiding and supporting our girls in partnership with families as they transition from childhood to adulthood.
I believe that my skills and perspectives would be a valuable addition to the WGC Board. I am a big picture thinker, always considering potential opportunities and risks. My experience is in harnessing the power of diverse perspectives and ideas to achieve far greater outcomes. It would be a privilege to represent you on the WGC Board, thank you for considering my nomination.
Huia Forbes
I’m excited about the opportunity to support Wellington Girls’ College again, having previously coordinated the second-hand uniform sales for two years, when it was the largest fundraiser for the school. My youngest still has three years at WGC, and I’m keen to support the ongoing success of the school in creating an inclusive and future-focused environment for all students.
I bring strong governance and strategic leadership experience, with particular expertise in health and safety governance, risk management, and organisational assurance. I’ve served on the Forest Industry Safety Council Board, where I supported national harm prevention efforts, and was a panel member for the Independent External Review into Bullying and Harassment in the New Zealand Parliamentary Workplace. I’ve also led the establishment of regulatory and governance functions within NZ Police, and I’ve advised Crown Entity Boards at WorkSafe and Pharmac.
These roles have strengthened my ability to support sound decision-making, and contribute to safe, high-performing organisations. I recognise the critical role of good governance in enabling schools to deliver excellent outcomes, academically, socially, and culturally.
I’m pragmatic and collaborative. I’d love to bring my skills and energy to the Board and help shape the next chapter of WGC’s evolution and success.
Angela Mansell
Angela Mansell
Bindy Tatham
My name is Bindy Tatham and our daughters, Zoe (year 13) and Lucy (year 12), attend WGC and Izzy (year 8) will be starting in 2026. We live in Ngaio, and we have had a great experience with WGC. I have really enjoyed being on the Board, and working with positive and motivated people.
I’d like to stand again to provide some continuity following a challenging period for the school with respect to its property and buildings. This year Cabinet confirmed funding for our re-build, and the Board’s priorities of returning the field and replacing the hall were approved in the scope of work. This is great news, and WGC is well set for the future - there are exciting times ahead, but there is still work to do. I’d like to be part of the team that sees this work through to the next phase.
I will continue to bring enthusiasm and an interest in girls’ education to the Board. I respect tradition but complement this with a progressive attitude. I am community-minded, like to listen and am interested in people and their views. The Board carried out two reviews during its current term – the Sports Review 2023 and Arts & Culture Discovery 2025 (ongoing) – these reviews show that the Board is open to listening to the school community, and this partnership is highly valued. I will continue to work to strengthen these relationships.
My background is in law and I have worked as an in-house lawyer at the Teaching Council. In 2022, I started a small consultancy business, Professional Insight, carrying out independent investigations. I also work for several professional regulatory bodies in Wellington on committees and in advisory roles.
My personal values align with WGC’s values, and a values-driven approach brings consistency to decision-making. My approach to the Board role is professional and considered. It would be a privilege to represent the WGC parent community on the Board for another term.
I am standing for the Wellington Girls’ College Board of Trustees with a strong desire to contribute to the future of education in Aotearoa New Zealand. Coming from a different culture and education system, I bring a global perspective shaped by my academic and personal journey. I have completed my PhD in New Zealand and currently work at a New Zealand university. This path has given me the unique opportunity to experience the tertiary education system here while also drawing comparisons with international models of learning and teaching. I am eager to deepen my understanding of the New Zealand school system and contribute meaningfully to it. Wellington Girls’ College stands out for its commitment to excellence, inclusion, and bicultural practice. Its strategic goals—ensuring equity in achievement, fostering student wellbeing, supporting diverse learners, and progressing the school rebuild—align with the values I hold as an educator and parent. I am particularly interested in: • Supporting culturally responsive teaching and learning to ensure that every learner feels seen, heard, and valued. • Championing student wellbeing by advocating for policies and practices that support mental health, resilience, and a safe school environment. • Contributing to governance through an academic lens, offering insight into how school experiences prepare students for tertiary education and life beyond school. • Learning about and supporting the WGC rebuild project, ensuring that the physical learning environment reflects and supports the school’s inclusive and future-focused vision. As someone who values education deeply, I view this role not just as governance, but as an opportunity to listen, learn, and serve the school community with humility and commitment. I believe that diverse voices and experiences on the Board strengthen the direction we take for our learners. I would be honoured to bring my experience, curiosity, and dedication to the Wellington Girls' College Board.
Muhammad Shabbir Abbasi
Kia ora, I believe every student deserves access to a high-quality, equitable education that prepares them for a successful future. As a parent, I am committed to supporting policies that foster academic excellence, inclusivity, and transparency. I bring previous leadership experience and a good understanding of what it takes to run a business and a deep respect for the partnership between families, educators, and the broader community. My priorities include advocating for girl-student achievement, ensuring responsible budgeting, supporting our teachers and staff, and maintaining safe, welcoming learning environments for all.
Darryl Mostert
Darryl Mostert
Jonathan Devine
I am a parent member of the Board completing the current 3 year term. I am a structural and civil engineer, and have been the Chair of the Property Committee during this time. I currently represent the Board for the re-development building works proposed for the school.
The current Board has worked very hard with the MoE in the property area over the last three years. We have completed a number of significant projects, secured funding, and are currently advocating for the best outcome for the students and staff in the re-development of the school.
I have three daughters that have, or are currently attending WGC. I am standing for the Board again as the Board needs experience and continuity during this important time in the early stages of the building project.
Jonathan Devine
I am a parent to a year 9 student with another daughter enrolled for next year, and one still in primary. I am a strategic planning professional currently employed by the New Zealand Defence Force. I bring strengths in investment planning, governance, decision support and digital transformation. I believe these skills can make a difference to the board as it guides WGC through changes to the education system and post-covid societal changes.
Blair Renwick
Blair Renwick
Phil Peet
Kia ora koutou.
My name is Phil Peet and I am standing for the school board with a commitment to strengthen our school’s future to ensure that every student can thrive.
My eldest daughter Liv is currently in year 13 and is on the arts committee, and my other daughter Elise is in year 10. They are both really enjoying their time at Te Kura Manawaroa o Pipitea and the opportunities that it is providing them academically, culturally and socially. I will use my daughters’ experiences to shape future changes at the school.
I will use my extensive experience to help with the school rebuild project. My background is in infrastructure advisory; I am a civil engineer who advises central and local government on infrastructure investment and helps manage infrastructure projects from inception through to delivery. I focus on removing the noise and focussing on what really matters. I am currently a director of a small business here in Wellington and am a member of the Institute of Directors with training and experience in risk, culture, governance and compliance. I will use this experience to help WGC through the challenging time finalising and implementing the new school buildings to make sure they are fit-for-purpose and meet the outcomes that we want for our children.
I have regularly invested my time and energy in supporting initiatives that benefit our children through being chair of the kindergarten committee, managing sports teams, being parent support at school camps and supporting my kids and their friends through all their shared sports and cultural activities.
I am passionate about championing academic excellence, student wellbeing, and equity within our school. I want to be a strong voice for families, teachers, and—most importantly—our students. My priorities include transparent communication, ensuring the board focusses on what is most important for our children and nurturing an inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is heard.
I will work tirelessly to ensure our school continues to be a place where all students succeed academically, socially and in the sports and arts, and are ready for the next stages of their lives.
Phil Peet
Tena koutou katoa
As both a proud old girl of Wellington Girls’ College and a parent of 2026 Year 9 student, I’m standing for the Board of Trustees with a deep commitment to our school’s legacy and its future. I spent five amazing years at WGC in the late 1990s, gaining not only a strong education but a lasting sense of confidence, belonging, and pride in being part of a school that celebrates diversity, encourages excellence, and nurtures leadership. That experience shaped who I am—and it’s the kind of environment I want to support and sustain for my daughter and for all current and future students. I bring to this role proven governance experience, having served on the Board of Trustees at Tawa (Primary) School, including as presiding member. During my time there, I contributed to key decisions that strengthened the school’s future, including the implementation of an enrolment scheme to manage growth and preserve quality learning, and navigating complex property upgrade projects. These experiences taught me the importance of balancing strategic thinking with practical outcomes, and of listening carefully to teachers, the leadership team, and community voices. Professionally, I work in the public service in a senior leadership role, and I understand the value of transparent decision-making, collaborative leadership, and strong relationships with whānau, staff, students, and the wider community. My public service background includes policy roles (in Māori development and education) as well as business management and strategic advice roles. I am deeply community-minded and believe that a great school doesn’t exist in isolation—it is strengthened by the partnerships it forms. I’m a passionate community volunteer in our home suburb of Tawa – communities that have strong connections support and uplift each other. If elected, I will bring a thoughtful, inclusive, and future-focused approach to board work. I care deeply about equity, student wellbeing, academic achievement, and ensuring Wellington Girls’ College continues to be a place where every learner feels seen, challenged, and supported to thrive. WGC gives young Wellington wahine an amazing foundation, from which they can launch into any area of modern life. WGC holds a special place in my heart. It has given so much to generations of Wellington students—including me—and I would be honoured to give back by helping guide the school through its next chapter.
Ngā mihi nui,
Stacey Richardson
Stacey Richardson
Tēnā koutou katoa.
I'd like to contribute a parent's voice and perspective to the Board of Trustees. I dedicate my strengths, knowledge, energy and service to help WGC flourish. I've recently come across a rare commodity these days - time. I'd like to use that time to create positive social impact, and what better place to do that than at my budding scientist/artist's school. I'm interested in strategic decisions that support student achievement and wellbeing.
I've been an educator in some form or other for 30+ years, from teaching drama to 10-14 year-olds to ski instructing. An international career in English language teaching led to a lecturing position in a college in Glasgow, and then a range of roles in Community Education and development in Wellington. I've developed curriculums, devised courses to meet the changing needs of the community, and qualification criteria. I also teach Italian language.
I've got commercial/business experience and expertise, having run my own small businesses. I worked in commercialisation as a Social Impact advisor at the tech transfer business at Te Herenga Waka | Victoria University called Wellington UniVentures. I partnered with academic researchers in Business, Law, Education, Languages and Social Sciences, translating their ground-breaking ideas into start-ups, and coaching them in how to present to KiwiNet to fund their projects.
I've worked as a Career Development Consultant at the Tertiary Education Commission and led the education section of a government/council/community action plan on the health and wellbeing of refugee-background and newcomers to New Zealand, while leading an ESOL Assessment and Access Specialist Service in the Hutt Valley.
Currently, I work as a consultant and trainer at Write Group Limited. We work with people in government agencies, the private sector, law firms, and NGOs, analysing their writing and business communications and training them in how to use plain language - using words for good - to save time and be clear.
At 55, I feel ready for a governance role. After expanding my critical and strategic thinking in a leadership course I completed recently, it confirmed that I'm a big picture thinker, an ideas person, confident overseeing policies and finances, considering all angles, and collaborating. I'm a connector. It would be an honour for me to work hard with the principal, Board, and school community to set the direction of our school, and ensure that goals are met, so that our school community thrives.
Penny Maxwell
Penny Maxwell
Kelly Bullen
As a parent of a student at Wellington Girls’ College and a director of a consulting company, I am standing for the Board of Trustees to contribute my experience and passion to the continued success of this outstanding school. I believe in the power of education to transform lives and want to support the school community to ensure every student thrives.
Over the past 15 years, I have worked with both government and non-government organisations, leading complex programmes and advising on strategy, policy, and implementation. I’ve led large-scale transformation initiatives, developed business cases that secured significant funding, and managed multi-million-dollar budgets. My work has included partnerships with kaupapa Māori organisations, and my own tamariki whakapapa to Ngāti Ranginui.
At the Ministry of Education, I led the operationalisation of the Literacy & Maths Strategy, focused on lifting outcomes for all learners. Many of those initiatives now reaching classrooms. I also have direct experience with NCEA and Cambridge through my children, and I understand the opportunities and challenges of both systems. With the government now embarking on a significant transformation of NCEA, I believe my insight into system-level change and curriculum delivery can support the Board’s role in ensuring Wellington Girls’ College continues to meet the needs of its diverse learners during this period of change.
While I do not have previous board experience, I bring transferable governance-related skills from leading cross-sector partnerships, supporting decision-making at senior levels, and driving accountability and performance in complex environments. I know how to ask the right questions, understand financial and operational detail, and advocate for the needs of those we serve.
I am standing because I care deeply about equity, educational excellence, and the wellbeing of our young people. I want to see all students, including Māori and other priority learners, supported to succeed. I bring a systems-thinking mindset, a deep understanding of the education landscape, and a commitment to working collaboratively with whānau, staff, students, and fellow board members.
Wellington Girls’ College is a place of aspiration, and I would be honored to contribute to its governance and future direction. I want to make a difference for our girls, today and for the years to come.
