HORORATA
Our Team
Our Vision: To provide the resources to promote, foster and develop Hororata and its wider community.
Our Trustees
Ainsley Walter (Chair)
Ainsley has a background in strategic development and a keen interest in philanthropy. She played an instrumental role in the establishment of the Hororata Community Trust in 2010 and continues her support of this community as a Trustee and now Chair. As part of original committee, Ainsley was responsible for formulating and managing the inaugural Hororata Highland Games. Ainsley has a strong community focus being involved in significant fundraising efforts and other community projects. She is chair of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and works for the Christ Christchuch Cathedral Reinstatement Project.
Chris Thwaites
Chris is a passionate member of the community who is known for his volunteer commitment on a range of committees; including Hororata School Board of Trustees, Selwyn Rugby Club and Go Hororata. Chris has lived in the area his whole life and runs his family farm with his wife Jane and three children.
Richard Lang
Richard Lang is a Christchurch-based partner at Duncan Cotterill. He has over 17 years of experience in legal practice focusing on trust, agribusiness, property, and commercial work, and holds numerous trusteeships. Richard brings his legal skills including extensive expertise in advising trusts and charities to the team.
Craig Blackburn
Craig Blackburn brings 30 years of experience in agriculture, with a passion for farming, land development, and property. Recognised for his expertise in irrigation and environmental management, he has played a key role in shaping rural projects. Since 2022, he has chaired the Go Hororātā residents’ committee and remains deeply involved in the community. He lives in Hororātā with his wife, Sharon and two sons, Ollie and Charlie.
Sam Richards
Sam Richards is the principal of Richards Consulting Engineers based in Canterbury and Auckland. He is a structural and civil design engineer with over 20 years of experience. Sam’s family has been connected to the Windwhistle area for six generations. Sam grew up in Windwhistle and lives in the community with his wife and four daughters. Sam brings his experience in civil and structural projects throughout New Zealand and Queensland to the Trust as well as a deep connection to the communities in this rural area.
MANAGEMENT
Cindy Driscoll – Executive Officer
Cindy has lived in the wider Hororata district most of her life growing up on Ryton Station on the shores of Lake Coleridge. After spending five years in Australia working in events, Cindy returned to Christchurch where she worked as the National Marketing Manager for a building products supplier. Cindy now lives in Coalgate with her family.
