Duncan - Recreation & Events Manager (Leisure Active)

 

• How long have you worked at HCC?

 

2000 – 2002 (Events & Promotions Officer) & 2004 – current (Recreation & Events Manager)

 

• What attracted you to the role?

I’ve always had an interest in organising events, ever since I was at College. After my first stint at HCC I went and did my OE in the UK. While I was there, the opportunity came up to return to HCC and I jumped at it. I enjoy working here.

 

• What does your job involve – day to day things?

My role is really varied. Each day brings a new set of challenges. I could be working on anything from developing new physical activity programmes to facilitating a major event to resolving filming requests from Hollywood movies! A fair percentage of my day is spent talking to people, whether they be members of the public or partners on programmes.

 

• Things about the job that you enjoy the most…

The diversity. There’s something new happening all of the time. I enjoy creating experiences that the public enjoy.

 

• What is your view of the main benefits of working at HCC / in Lower Hutt?

The relaxed but professional attitude of all staff. There are some really good people working for HCC who care a lot about Lower Hutt.
One of the great things about the Hutt is the easy access to great recreation assets we have – the river, the sportsgrounds and parks and open spaces. As I live in the Hutt, I don’t have to travel far to enjoy some green space. I’m often out on my mountain bike going for a quick ride in the hills.

 

• What skills & attributes do you think someone will need to do your job?

I’ve got a Bachelor of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management from Lincoln. This gave me the background skills I need for the job. To have a role like mine you’ve got to be organised, a good communicator, a lateral thinker and problem solver. Hands on experience is also key.