Meet the Team
Principal
Professor Sonia Mazey
Sonia Mazey is an adjunct Professor of Public Policy at the University of Canterbury (UC) and former Pro-Vice Chancellor, UC business and Law (2012–20). She is a Board Director of the Asia Pacific Student Accommodation Association (APSAA) and former Chair of the Universities New Zealand Vice Chancellors' Sub-Committee for University Student Pastoral Care (CUSPaC).
Sonia held senior academic and management positions at Brunel, Cambridge and Oxford Universities in the UK before moving to Christchurch New Zealand in 2008. At UC, she was a Lecturer, Academic Manager and Dean prior to appointment as Pro-Vice-Chancellor.
Her research interests include European and European Union politics and public policy and she has published extensively in these fields. More recent publications on New Zealand's public policy include Sonia Mazey and Jeremy Richardson (eds), Policy-making under Pressure: Rethinking the Policy process in Aotearoa New Zealand (Canterbury University Press 2021).
Assistant Principal
Bruce White
A chartered accountant and company director, Bruce has held senior management positions in both the public and private sectors. Over the last 14 years, he has worked in tertiary education at the Universities of Canterbury and Waikato.
At UC, was Manager of the College of Engineering (2008-2011) and Deputy Registrar
(2011-2019) before moving to Global Manager for Benchmarking and Reputation at Waikato University.
Outside of work, Bruce can generally be found working on the lifestyle block that he and his wife, Debra have called home for the last 20 years.
Operations Manager
Ollie van der Pol
Ollie has a background in property, having spent several years managing shopping centres in central Christchurch, including the Re:START Container Mall and The Crossing.
She studied at Lincoln University, graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce (Valuation and Property Management).
Ollie commenced at Arcady early 2020 and oversees the facilities, buildings, health and safety and summer conferencing. She’s the go-to person if anything needs fixing or isn’t up to standard – and she’ll get it sorted!
Any spare time is spent outdoors – running, adventure racing and mountain biking in Queenstown with her Bearded Collie.
Interestingly, Ollie has had a couple of boxing fights – a great stress relief.
Community and Development Manager
Olivia Hundleby
Olivia has a background working in communications and marketing with the last 2 years spent in pastoral care. She studied at the University of Canterbury (UC) graduating with a Bachelor of Communication (with a Political Communication major). She has lived overseas in the UAE and Canada before returning to NZ in 2019.
Olivia first started working at the hall in 2021. Her role is to facilitate Arcady events, oversee the RA team and ensure students are getting their pastoral care needs met. She is passionate about supporting others when she can.
Outside of the Hall, Olivia spends a lot of time volunteering but can also be found hanging out with her friends and family, reading a book or binge watching a show.
Communications and Office Coordinator
Eddye Davidson
Eddye has a background in banking and administration and operated her own equestrian facility while in the US. She completed an Associate Degree in Accounting from the University of KY.
Eddye came to NZ in 2016 as a tour guide in AUS & NZ and enjoyed seeing many of the beautiful sites around these countries. She became the Communications and Office Coordinator at Arcady in 2023. She enjoys assisting the residents and welcoming visitors to Arcady.
Outside of work, Eddye coaches horseback riding lessons and is a NZ Dressage Judge. She also likes to spend time outdoors and enjoys gardening.
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Head Chef
Scott Townsend
Scott has worked in some of the UK’s top kitchens and restaurants including Michelin regime restaurants and hotels. Scott has taken on several high-profile roles in Christchurch kitchens including; Sous Chef at The George Luxury Hotel and Head Chef at The Carlton in 2015.
Scott leads the kitchen team at Arcady Hall to produce hearty and nutritional food with a simplistic and fresh approach. He believes that dining is a social and happy time that brings people together and should be an experience, no matter the occasion.
Scott is originally from the UK and moved to New Zealand 9 years ago. In his spare time you can find him at the gym or outdoors hiking and fishing.
Head House Mum
Margaret Gainsford
Margaret heads up the household staff who clean, scrub and wash in the four residential buildings and keep their “eyes and ears” out for any issues relating to students, maintenance and guests.
Margaret has worked at Arcady Hall for over 20 years and helps promote the home away from home ethos we have at Arcady.
In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family. She also hosts international students in her own home.
House Mum Team:
Dionne Kilkenny
Sonya Holland
Nadeeka Wijesundara
Linda Cheung
Kanchana Attapatu
Olivia Ballantyne
Caretaker
Karl Krauze
Karl is our caretaker, handyman, gardener and "general fixit man” who is responsible for keeping the services running and the grounds looking beautiful. He ensures all repairs and maintenance are carried out in conjunction with Ollie our Operations Manager.
Community and Development Manager - On Leave
Samantha Cording
Sam has a background in pastoral care and event management, having spent many years working in the University Accommodation sector. Sam studied at University of Canterbury (UC) graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Sociology and Anthropology).
Sam is passionate about supporting the Arcady Residents through their first year of study. She began working at Arcady halfway through 2022. She facilitates the Arcady Events with the help of the RA team. Part of her role is to meet with students and support their pastoral care needs.
In Sam's spare time she plays Volleyball and ultimate frisbee.
Kitchen Staff:
Head Chef
Scott Townsend
Sous Chef
Yashaswin Kekre
Senior Chef
Ryan Moon
Kitchen Assistant
Hillary Harris
Weekday Kitchen Assistant
Liza Mae Ilustre
Kitchen Hands:
Guy Greening
Matthew Axtell
Jess Pope
Daniel Cheong
Grace Padfield
Aidan McAra
Hayley Kawelenga
Stella Leong
Alex Taylor
Aiden Davies
Imogen Barnes
Emmalee Abbott
The RA Team
Cranmer RA
Naomi Riedel
Hey everyone!
I’m a second year law student originally from lovely Lake Taupō! Some things you’ll find I’m pretty crazy about are my faith, climbing mountains with mates, spinning yarns, and putting exclamation marks after every sentence…! The balance between uni and life is super important so when not studying I love to get outdoors for an adventure, watercolour paint, or read! I am super excited to meet you all and help you settle in to what I’m sure will be an epic year!
Cranmer RA
Reuben Bowen
Hey everyone!
I’m a second year science student and am studying chemistry. I am originally from Timaru and enjoy skiing, tramping and fishing. I look forward to meeting all of you this year and hope you have as much fun during your first year as I did!
NS RA
Lauren Allen
Hello everyone!
This is my first year of a Masters in Audiology. Prior to this, I completed a Bachelor of Oral Health at the University of Otago, and have been working in dentistry.
Outside of study, I'm keen to learn to surf and brush up on my pool skills - so bring your A game if that's something you like!
I'm very much looking forward to meeting you all, and seeing you enjoy this exciting new step. It's going to be a great year!
NS/MH RA
Johannes Mackay
Kia Ora koutou!
My name is Johannes or Jo for short and I am in my third year of a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Primary). I grew up in Queenstown and enjoy the outdoors as well as good food. Outside of uni, I am a Youth Leader for St John Youth, where I was also a Cadet. I have been involved with St John for over 10 years. I am always down for good old yarn and you'll likely find me in the comm losing a game of pool. I look forward to meeting you all and being a part of this small chapter in your life 😀. Here's to a wonderful 2023.
MH RA
Jess Dixon
Kia ora!
I’m going into my second year of a Bachelor of Science majoring in Financial Engineering with a minor in Mathematics. I’m from East Auckland and love the beach, reading, and losing at chess. On campus, I’m involved with UC Robotics and 180 Degrees Consulting and would encourage you to get involved with your interests on campus too. I was a resident at Arcady last year and had a fantastic time; I’m so excited to meet you all and ensure you have an awesome year too!
Oaks RA
Lily Sanson
Hi everyone!
I am in my final year student BE (Hons) majoring in Civil Engineering. I'm originally from the Manawatu and grew up in the countryside just outside of Palmerston North. I am the youngest of my siblings and was an avid dancer, pianist and canoe polo player throughout high school. These days when I am not studying, I can be found at the gym, hanging out with my friends or reading a book on my ever-growing TBR. I'm really excited to meet you all and seeing you have so much fun at Arcady!
Oaks RA
Caleb Corban
Hi everyone!
I’m a second year student studying towards a BE(Hons) in mechanical engineering. During the week I spend my non-uni hours doing exercise, playing music and catching up with mates. I also love getting outdoors, practicing my faith and a bit of reading too. Keen as to get to know you guys and looking forward to a mean year!
Board of Governors
BSc (Hons), Ph.D, CNZM, Board Chair
Tim Bell
Tim Bell is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering at the University of Canterbury. His main area of research is in Computer Science Education, and he was awarded the SIGSCE award for Outstanding Contribution to Computer Science Education in 2017 at the largest computing education conference in the world! He was a awarded a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in 2024 for his outstanding contribution to Computer Science Education.
Although teaching computer science is his job, Tim also describes it as his passion. He loves to give students a vision for what they really want to do. Tim has always enjoyed working with young people and was an RA at Bishop Julius from 1985 to 1987. He joined the Board in 2005 to continue to be part of creating a home away from home for university students.
Outside of academia, Tim is an active musician, playing keyboard in bands, but also holding an A.T.C.L. in Pipe Organ performance.
B. Com
Stephanie Gunn
Stephanie is a past resident of the hall, having resided from 2009 to 2011 and recently joined the Board in early 2023. She Completed a Bachelor or Commerce majoring in Accounting at the University of Canterbury in 2011. During this time she was a Residential Assistant and participated in the Student Volunteer Army following the earthquakes.
Stephanie is a Chartered Accountant and is employed by FarmRight as their Finance Manager. She has gained accounting experience in both New Zealand the the United Kingdom during her OE, working for clients across many sectors.
She is passionate about sport and enjoys playing netball, basketball, tennis and golf. Her golden retriever, Chester, keeps her busy in her spare time.
BSci
Sam Kuipers
Sam was a Residential Assistant for 2 years at Arcady Hall from 2022 to 2023. Taking this position on the board was an opportunity for him to continue contributing to the welfare of the hall and it’s residents and staff. He recently graduated from a BSc majoring in Biology in 2023 at the University of Canterbury.
He is passionate about youth well-being. He is looking to study further as a teacher to provide pastoral support and quality education to future generations.
In his spare time he enjoys social sports, playing the piano, tramping, watching a movie, church activities and socialising with his flatmates and friends
B. Com
Tim Lonsdale
Tim has been a freelance business consultant since 2015 mostly in the New Zealand agri-sector. Tim’s passion lies in lifting New Zealand’s agricultural products out of commodity markets and into high-value branded goods and services through innovation and marketing.
Tim also has interests in commercial property with a number of associated directorships. Tim studied at Lincoln University completing a Bachelor of Commercial Management in Economics and Marketing. He has worked in a range of industries including tourism, textiles and applied research through to Chief Executive level.
In his spare time, Tim likes to mountain bike, ski and fly-fish and keep fit in the pool.
M.Sc (Hons)
Peter Roborgh
A graduate of Canterbury University and a former Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Peter has governance experience in education and a number of commercial businesses including an ASX listed company he started.
His career history spans senior management and company leadership positions in several different markets, typically for growth businesses launching new propositions or facing significant market change.
Each of his adult children had their first university year in a hall of residence (as he did) and he recognises the meaningful benefits a supportive and enjoyable environment can have at this life stage.
Peter is a strong supporter of maintaining interests beyond academic ones. He particularly enjoys outdoor pursuits and is a keen mountain biker.
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B. Com
Phil Ryan
Phil is an experienced commercial manager with 25+ years experience in general and regional management roles encompassing Supply Chain, Logistics, Sales, Wholesale, Retail and Hospitality management in commercial, not-for-profit and co-operative organisations.
Phil was the first Chief Executive of the University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA) from 2000 to 2007 and has since held senior Sales and Supply Chain roles with Coca-Cola Amatil (in both New Zealand and Papua New Guinea), as National Commercial Manager for Farmlands Fuel, and more recently Citycare Property as Commercial Operations Manager including national responsibly for Fleet and Supply Chain.
Both his adult children are recent post-graduates of the University of Canterbury and their experiences and his time as Chief Executive of UCSA have led to a life-long interest in the importance of well-rounded experiences as young people transition through this crucial life stage.
Other interests include travel and keeping active including golf and four half marathons to date.
BA, MCom, Mgmt
Anne Hindson
Anne is a graduate of Canterbury and Lincoln Universities. She is currently working as a freelance contractor in business development and project management.
Anne has previously held several CEO and Project leadership roles in the tourism, major event, sport and agribusiness sectors. She brings education, management and governance experience in the not-for-profit and private sectors, and a strong knowledge of and passion for young people and their development, having lectured at Lincoln University and Ara Institute of Technology, and more recently as CEO of an agribusiness leadership organisation.
She has experience of halls of residence through her two adult children and through utilising the halls for short courses during university holidays. In her spare time, Anne enjoys both road and mountain biking and touring, plays competitive tennis and enjoys time in the outdoors, or with a good book, dependent on the weather.
BA, BTh
Ven. Nick Mountfort
Nick’s first degree was in Political Science, at Canterbury from 1982-1984. During this time he lived at College House and met his wife-to-be at Arcady (at the time it was Bishop Julius Hall). He had a number of jobs before working for the Anglican Church for the last 28 years. Among many positions he has twice been a University Chaplain. Currently he is Vicar of Upper Riccarton Yaldhurst, which includes St Peters Church at Church Corner. As an Archdeacon he helps the Bishop have pastoral oversight of eight neighbouring parishes. He and his wife have 2 adult daughters. His motivation for being on the board is to help make Uni as much a life enhancing time for others as it was for him.
Warden
Rt Rev Dr Peter Carrell
Peter is the Anglican Bishop of Christchurch and Warden of Arcady Hall. After schooling in Canterbury and Otago, Peter studied Mathematics and Philosophy at the University of Canterbury (1978-81). After working and travelling overseas, he then studied Theology at the University of Otago while being resident in Selwyn College, Dunedin (1984-86). Since the end of 1986, Peter has worked as an ordained minister in the Anglican Church in New Zealand and Polynesia in the Dioceses of Christchurch (1987-1990, 2010-present) and of Nelson (1993-2010), with the exception of the years 1990-1993 when he completed doctoral studies at the University of Durham, UK. Eighteen of those years of ministry were spent in theological education and ministry training across the two Dioceses. Peter has been Bishop of Christchurch since February 2019. He is married to Teresa and they have four adult children. In his spare time, Peter follows rugby, cricket and politics, walk and gardens for exercise, and enjoys the company of family and friends for relaxation.