Meet our Trustees.

Our Trustees do an incredible job applying for grants, encouraging donations and managing sponsorships to bring Public Displays of Art (PDAs) to Taupō.

Find out more about how you can help.

  • Christine Robb

    Chair


    With a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree and her deep involvement in the Taupo art community, it is clear that Christine has always been passionate about the arts. She and her husband, Lynden Over own the successful Lava Glass Studio, Gallery and Sculpture Garden. Christine’s knowledge and patience in dealing with funding and grants applications as well as her hands-on approach is invaluable to the Trust. 

  • Debbie Thorpe

    Deputy Chair

    Debbie is a semi-retired GP with no formal arts training but a life-long passion for visual and performing arts.

    She brings to the trust her previous experience in governance and a strong commitment to the value of public art in the Taupō district.

    She enjoys engaging with people on matters she feel strongly about, including the significant benefits that public art can bring to a community

  • Kim Gillies

    Secretary/Treasurer

    Kim, our Secretary and Treasurer, moved to Taupo 14 years ago from her hometown of Wellington, where she had gained her Bachelor of Design and worked as a creative copywriter for advertising agency Clemenger BBDO. Kim now owns and runs two busy shops in Taupo with her husband, as well as chasing their two young children. Kim has an interest in art and photography, a passion for creative problem solving and a can-do attitude that benefit the trust a number of ways.

  • Rachel Robinson

    Trustee

    Rachel has a strong connection to the local community. With a background in business and communications, she brings a practical, people-focused approach to the Trust and is passionate about supporting public art that enhances Taupō’s shared spaces and reflects the character of the town.

  • Kathy Johnstone

    Patron

    Kathy was one of the founding members of The Trust and has very recently stepped down from Chair. Kathy owns Replete Café & Store, which she established with her husband 25 years ago. Her philosophy is to give as much of herself as possible and this is shown through her strength in networking and relationships with the community, understanding of processes and meticulous attention to detail. Kathy is now Patron of the Trust.