Clare Ngakai is the Fiordland Trails Trust’s Administrator. Find out more about her here!
Tell us a bit about yourself – where are you from, what do you do?
My husband, son and I moved to Te Anau in 2017. Growing up in Queenstown, I have always been drawn to the mountains and lakes. Te Anau is an amazing place to raise a family. We love to spend time outdoors, running, hiking, and multisport events.
What is your role with FTT and what does it involve?
My role with FTT is Trust Administrator, assisting with funding requirements for the Trust for trail construction, maintenance, and operational costs, assisting with the annual Hydro Half running event, any and all administrative needs that arise.
When did you start with FTT and what attracted you to the role?
I started with the Trust in December 2023, still finding my feet and where I can add value to the Trust and support the Trustees. I have always been a top fan of FTT and what the Trust has achieved, the trails really are world class and it is very exciting to be a part of this.
What are your hobbies or interests?
I really enjoy getting out and about, experiencing new trails, non-trails and challenges. We have a lifestyle block just out of Te Anau that keeps us happily busy also.
What do you love most about Fiordland?
Everything! I often say ‘Te Anau, is similar to what it was like when I grew up in Queenstown’ It’s a wonderful community to raise children in, it has everything we love about life on offer.
What do you and your family get up to on weekends?
We are pretty active and always have something happening, whether it is a hike or bike, visitors or an event. Our calendar is usually pretty full.
Lake2Lake Trail – Run, bike, e bike or walk?
Biking normally, we love the Lake2Lake trail Manapouri to Te Anau. I have also run the Hydro Half Marathon – every year.
What is most exciting you about your mahi with FTT this year?
Watching the Trail construction grow towards Te Anau Downs and being a part of the Hydro Events committee for event day 3rd August, 2024.
Three reasons everyone should take part in the Meridian Hydro Half Marathon or Mitre 10 Te Anau 10k this year?
It is such a fantastic event walking or running, you really can’t get much better scenery and it’s a fantastic time of year to visit Fiordland. Entry fees going back to the Trust to construct further trails and maintain current trails – how good!
What’s a fun fact about you?
I met my husband when we were in the NZ Army 20 years ago and served two operational deployments, East Timor and Afghanistan – Hence our love of the outdoors!
