Tell us about your role:
Treasurer is a leadership and strategic role. As Treasurer, my primary focus is on the stability and prosperity of Kiwiburn as a long-term project. I keep abreast of the day-to-day financial workings of Kiwiburn and advise the ExCom on the broader impacts on Kiwiburn’s well-being and future sustainability. The Treasurer is also the guardian of Kiwiburn Inc.’s financial compliance.
What made you want to volunteer for a year round role? And what would you say to anyone considering it?
When you enjoy the event, and realise what it means for Kiwiburn to be completely volunteer-run, then it’s natural to want to contribute. It’s just a matter of finding your people and what ‘contributing’ means for you. Once I found the right opportunities, volunteering seemed like an obvious choice.
“Many hands make light work.” If you’re considering volunteering for a year-round role then you’re probably more suited to the position than you realise. It can be chaotic but there are also some super-supportive humans to help you out. It’s incredibly rewarding.
When you’re not doing KB stuff, how do you spend your time?
Managing extensive renovations on our “project” of a house. It’s a similar “edge of chaos” situation.
How did you get involved with Kiwiburn?
I was enticed by friends back in 2011 (not a cult).
What’s your favourite thing about being part of this amazing community?
Working with practical, pragmatic, and generous people.
What’s your favourite Paddock moment?
So many moments! I’ll always remember the Temple burn of Kiwiburn 2012 (the driftwood Temple). World-class pyrotechnic art, and a serene occasion. Looking back, it was a step along the journey of seeing Kiwiburn as more than just a “party on a paddock”.
What skills have you learned by being involved with Kiwiburn?
Hard skills like building temporary structures and using handheld UHF radios. “Softer” skills like participant wellness support. Leadership and governance skills. It sneaks up on you. Sometimes you realise you’re doing something easily now that you would have struggled with several years ago.
Kiwiburn has helped me to be more socially courageous. I started putting myself out there with Pup’s Paddock Post and then Black Sheep Rangers. These experiences helped me gain the confidence to move overseas for a time and participate at the ELS and various Euro-Burns.
What are you most excited about for Kiwiburn 2026?
Having participated at seven Kiwiburns, it is my most frequented Burn, and I have been away for about seven years. I’m excited to be ‘welcomed home’ and to introduce my partners to the craziness of the Paddock.
