William Hadley

Kia Ora!

I'm Will and I am studying at the University of Otago in Dunedin. I get super stoked about the outdoors, being involved in ultra running, mountaineering and rock climbing - always seeking to challenge myself with what I am doing. I'm a type-2 fun enthusiast - constantly looking to push my limits in the hills, but this doesn't stop me from getting super psyched every time.

My main passion, however, lies in science and engineering. In particular, I am fascinated by the ability of engineering to improve technology and provide innovative and concrete solutions to major challenges faced by the world. I recently received the Energy Education Trust NZ undergraduate scholarship for my interest in sustainable energy solutions. I also completed a summer internship in the Physics Department of Otago University that explored the logistics of introducing a standard for dehumidifier technology in New Zealand. This passion for science stemmed from earlier days in school where a number of exploits piqued my interest. My investigation into the feasibility of using waxmoth larvae (a pest in beehives) to solve NZ's plastic bag pollution problems attracted a lot of interest at the Taranaki regional Science Fair, and I also was selected by The Royal Society Te Apārangi to attend the Youth Australia and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science forum in Melbourne.

Some of my recent outdoors exploits include running the ‘Ultra Easy’ 100km ultramarathon in Wanaka last summer and climbing the North-West ridge of Tititea Mt. Aspiring over Easter. I’m also an executive member of the Otago University Tramping Club with the role of Trail Running Officer. This year I was super stoked to be able to run the TWALK 24hr rogaine with some of my trail running mates. My background in the outdoors was built in school where I competed in a multitude of team Adventure Racing events across the country, ranging from 6 to 24 hours duration. The highlight of these was the week-long Hillary Challenge grand final held in Tongariro National Park.

As part of the Pinnacle Programme, I had the awesome opportunity to attend both the Spirit of Adventure and Outward Bound New Zealand. Both were invaluable experiences that allowed me to make new connections and learn about myself. I look forward to more involvement with the Pinnacle Programme in the future!