MEET OUR TEAM

Our Board

These dedicated individuals help guide and support Life Education Trust with their expertise, passion, and commitment. Our volunteer trustees and board members play a crucial role in steering the organisation towards achieving its mission and ensuring the effectiveness of our educational programs.

Harold the Giraffe Trustee Phillip Cowie

Aidan Poynter - Chair

Aidan Poynter is a Financial Adviser helping every day Kiwis to protect what matters the most. Aidan has always been passionate about helping others, with a background in operations management, education and aviation.

He started his career as a flight instructor, where he developed a strong foundation in education and mentoring. This experience fostered his commitment to empowering others through knowledge and guidance. After several years in the construction industry, where he developed his skills in strategic planning and leadership. He then transitioned into financial services, founding Fortify Wealth to help individuals and families protect their financial futures.

"I applied to join the Life Education Trust so I can apply my expertise in strategic planning, education, and client relations to support the Trust’s mission of promoting the health and wellbeing of children across the region. I am dedicated to ensuring that the Trust’s programs continue to empower young people to make informed, healthy choices."

Outside of work you can Aidan outdoors, on a bush walk or walking around his neighbourhood with his wife and their dog.

Phillip Cowie - Dept Chair

I am recently retired from a lifetime career in the education sector including undertaking principal positions at schools in Hawkes Bay, King Country and Waikato. My last principal position was that of foundation principal at Rototuna Primary School from 2002 until 2008 having held previous principal positions in the Waikato at Pirongia and Bankwood Primary Schools. From Rototuna Primary School I worked for the Education Review Office undertaking positions of reviewer, and manager of review services. Most recently, up until my retirement in 2023 I held the role of Director Review and Improvement Services - Central Region. This role involved oversight of the evaluation of all schools and early childhood education services from Pukekohe in the north to Levin in the south (coast to coast).

"Throughout my career I have been committed to providing the best possible outcomes for children."

I have three adult children and four amazing grandchildren who I enjoy spending time with. Being born and raised in Otago I am a passionate supporter of the Highlanders rugby team ( which I might add is not always easy).

Anna Keucke - Trustee

With a lifelong passion for health and wellbeing—especially when it comes to children and families—I’ve built a career around helping people lead healthier, safer lives. My journey began in nursing, working across multiple countries and specialties to support patients and their families. Along the way, I also co-owned and operated a successful small business, gaining valuable insight into leadership and strategic growth.

Since 2017, I’ve brought these experiences together in the Health, Safety, and Wellbeing field, working in the private sector to promote positive workplace culture and holistic wellbeing—often in a high-vis vest, but always with people at the heart of what I do. I hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Health and Safety from Otago University, along with qualifications in adult education, health and safety auditing, and I’m an accredited professional member of the New Zealand Institute of Safety Management (NZISM).

As a proud mum to three teenagers, I bring empathy, lived experience, and a deep commitment to empowering young people. I’m passionate about creating environments—both at home and in the community—where tamariki feel valued, capable, and confident in themselves. I’m excited to contribute my voice and skills to the Life Education Trust board, particularly in areas of youth wellbeing, strategic planning, and community engagement. I hope to bring a practical, compassionate perspective that helps strengthen the Trust’s work and ensures every child we reach has the opportunity to thrive.

Meet our Educator

Originally from Taranaki, Nicky brings a wealth of teaching experience gained across Taranaki, Wellington, and Hamilton. Having come to teaching later in life, she has developed a strong passion for helping young people learn, grow, and make positive life choices. She is committed to creating engaging and supportive learning environments where tamariki and rangatahi can build confidence, deepen their understanding, and thrive.

Nicky is passionate about promoting healthy, active lifestyles and encouraging young people to develop lifelong habits that support both their physical and mental wellbeing. She is especially excited to work alongside Harold, delivering meaningful health education that connects directly to students’ lives and supports their learning both in and beyond the classroom.

Outside of teaching, Nicky loves spending time outdoors, surfing, playing football, enjoying the beach, and connecting with family and friends. It’s these experiences and values that help shape the positive energy and enthusiasm she brings to her work every day.

Our story