Alice Reade

Kia ora, my name is Alice and I grew up in Māpua at the heart of Te Tai-o-Aorere, Tasman Bay. At the time of writing, I find myself in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington having just completed my architecture masters. My thesis looked to imagine different approaches to housing and the use of local spaces. It offered a series of ‘what ifs’ to the housing discussion to encourage further discussion and feedback on possible solutions. This exploration came from my interest and passion for building more resilient, equitable and sustainable communities. I am continuing this work with Studio Tēpu, collaborating with communities, designers, and council to develop strategies, tools and co-design processes that support and empower communities to be truly part of decision making.

I love to spend my downtime exploring the land and sea with a sketchbook closely by my side. The most inspiring place I have ventured with these is Whenua Hou and Pukenui with the Kākāpō Recovery Program. Both predator-free, these islands give a glimpse of what Aotearoa was once and what it could be.

I joined the Pinnacle Programme in my last year of high school where I wasn’t sure where I was headed or how to figure this out. Both Spirit of Adventure and Outward Bound fostered a greater understanding of myself and my values. Kai Waho enabled me to reflect and build upon these learnings and my relationship with the natural environment.

Through the Pinnacle Programme, I have formed connections with inspiring people across Aotearoa working to make change. I am grateful to be a part of this community with many possibilities to grow, support, learn from and collaborate with one another. The enthusiasm and drive embodied in the programme and its whānau is contagious - you always leave a Pinnacle event with an extra bounce in your step