Our Board
Norma Hayward - President
With 17 years’ experience in management, account management and sales, Norma has led West Auckland RDA through a period of rapid growth, and planning for the much needed Covered Riding Facility. She has strong team leadership skills and a determination to see a permanent, purpose built home created for West Auckland RDA to increase service delivery. As well as her role at RDA, she is a facilitator for the Brainwave Trust. Norma strongly believes in the benefits to society of supporting our most challenged or vulnerable children to achieve their goals and do better in life.
Shirley Furneaux - Treasurer
Shirley joined RDA with previous experience in medical imaging, management, service on not-for-profit committees, and as a school trustee. She has led the development and implementation of financial and fund-raising strategies. Shirley is motivated by her desire to contribute to an organisation which makes such a positive impact on the lives of those living with a disability, through providing accessible and life-changing opportunities. She is committed to establishing a Covered Riding Facility for the future of West Auckland RDA and the benefits this would bring to the community.
Pia Saxton - Vice President
Coming from a background in production, Pia has been pivotal in the expansion of RDA services, more than tripling the number of children participating in West Auckland RDA programmes. Now playing a major part in both operations and strategic planning, Pia is working on further broadening RDA services to aid the West Auckland community. Being a recipient of the prestigious ‘Spark Volunteer Coach of the Year Award’, Pia has the drive, determination and ability to assist the other talented members of the team to manifest these positive changes over the coming years.
Glynis Edmunds - Secretary
Glynis has experience in administration within the Health sector, including implementation of recommendations from the Cartwright Enquiry, and as Executive Officer of Kelston Deaf Education Centre. Glynis is a lifelong horse owner, with extensive experience in Pony Club coaching, racing and breeding. As an RDA Coach, she sees first-hand how RDA riders develop self-esteem, social and physical skills to positively influence their lives.
Sharon Davies - Committee Member
Sharon is a true westie and passionate about her community and people. She has had a long association with West Auckland RDA. Firstly, as a member of the then Waitakere Community Board from 2004 to 2007 then as EA to Penny Hulse when Penny was Deputy Mayor at Waitakere City Council from 2007 to 2010. Sharon continued to keep a keen interest in the club after moving roles as PA to the Waitakere Ranges Local Board in 2010. In June 2021 she made the decision to leave her full-time job. This has freed up her time to be more involved in various community and voluntary organisations, which she loves. She was awarded a Queens Service Medal for services to her community in June 2013 and became a Justice of the Peace in December 2019. Sharon joined the West Auckland RDA committee in February 2022. She looks forward to bringing her governance skills to the group and being part of the final journey in seeing the covered arena come to fruition.
Wendy Rapp - Committee Member
Wendy has twenty years experience working with children as an alternative health practitioner, She also has management and teaching experience in the wellness industry, Wendy brings a strong strategic focus to the team and practical experience having supported children and young people with their health needs.