Our team members are personable, caring and open - they earned their places here not only through their qualifications and outdoor ability, but also for their character and relational skills when dealing with groups. They know we expect them to be strong leaders and great role models, and our clients tell us the genuine commitment of our staff is one of the big reasons they keep coming back.
Kent Nanninga - Manager "Helping people reach their potential through the adventure experience - that's what it's all about!"
Kent has been a part of the Outdoor industry for 13 years in Canada, Mexico, Tonga, and now New Zealand. A native Canadian, he's licensed to instruct in Kayaking, Rock Climbing/Abseiling, White Water Rafting, Mountaineering, Canoeing and Sea Kayaking. Right at home here in Raurimu with his wife Leanne, daughters Sequoia and Neika and sons Ashton and Malakai, Kent is also a qualified carpenter (a handy skill around these parts) and not bad at all on the guitar. Kent's passionate about this place, and he's the one who makes sure you'll be taking part in a safe and rewarding programme that will be the best fit for you and your group.
Leanne Nanninga - Assistant Manager "I put all my energy into living life to the fullest, and that's a passion I'm keen to share."
Along with managing our Manager and their four adorable children, Leanne brings the experience and depth of 12 years as an Instructor to BMAC. Currently she supports the team at BMAC through her experience in vision/oversight, safety management and systems streamlining. Leanne is certified in outdoor leadership & management, with instructor qualifications in White Water Kayaking & Rafting, Canoeing, Rock Climbing/Abseiling & Sea Kayaking. Her adventures have taken her over rocks and down rivers in the Americas, Asia and Australia, and she's also a keen runner (if you're looking for someone to up your pace!).
Daniel Werner, AKA "Billy"- Instructor "I love the outdoors, and it doesn't get any better than right here."
This Kiwi spent a few years with his wife Tessa and daughter Leah in Switzerland, before he realized his lush native homeland had it all - and we couldn't agree more! They've had two more children since coming home, Gracie and Oliver. Having a keen interest in the outdoors, Billy has continued in the adventure industry since completing his certificate in outdoor leadership in 1997. He's been at BMAC since early 2006, passing on some of his wicked sense of humour along with his passion for the outdoors to young and old alike. He's a master at Rock Climbing, Kayaking, and Volleyball... and still a hard man to catch on the Touch Rugby field.
Kyle Aitken - Instructor / Maintenance Coordinator "The things you learn here, you keep for life."
Kyle has come to BMAC with a love for American summer camps. With 4 seasons spent at various camps in the USA, Kyle has had experiences in many facets of camping culture and brings all that knowledge back to BMAC (where he was originally a camper!).
As well as being an Instructor, Kyle is our main man of maintenance, keeping the place looking sharp and working well. His certificate and extensive background in social and youth work also makes him a great listener and ready communicator - although it doesn't mean his dog Tui always listens to him! Kyle and his wife Hania have had a recent addition to their family daughter Elishka.
Bevan Sanders - Instructor "Working in the great outdoors, working with people - this is my dream job!"
Bevan joined the team in November 2006. Another who has led at American summer camps, the skills, enthusiasm and passion he's brought back with him mean he's fitted right in. And along with his diploma in biblical studies and certificate in outdoor recreation instructing, he's got the credentials to expand your current comfort zones and skills as well as help you through any life changing decisions. He loves snowboarding, rock climbing, and (when he can find the surf), surfing.
Hania Aitken - Marketing and Instructing
"Unforgettable and life changing. That's BMAC."
Like her husband Kyle, Hania came to BMAC in 2006 with five USA summer camps and a certificate in youth work under her belt. At the camps she served in the diverse positions of counsellor, lifeguard and programmer - and she's also one of the voices you may hear when you call us at BMAC! A raft guide and experienced swimmer, she loves the water and anything associated with it... and around here, we cover just about everything you can do on it, in it or over it! Whether she's on the other side of the volleyball net or coaching you in a rock-climb, Hania looks forward to hosting you and your group and helping plan a programme that will make your stay thoroughly enjoyable. With a new addition to their family (daughter Elishka) Hania now contracts in for BMAC when needed.
We can't wait to see you here!
Email: bmac@nzf.salvationarmy.org or Phone: (07) 892 2630 To read on, CLICK HERE |
