Vanessa Winning

Vanessa joined the Board of Water Safety New Zealand in early 2025, bringing strong connection to coastal safety through three terms as independent board member of Surf Life Saving NZ. 

Vanessa has held a number of senior executive roles and is currently a Director with the Ministry of Primary Industries.

Vanessa believes we have a duty to ensure all New Zealanders, both new and old have the skills and support to be safe in, on, and around water.

“Water Safety New Zealand holds a leadership role to keep New Zealanders safe through programmes and activities as well as support for other water-focused organisations to help ensure people of all ages and abilities are equipped to cherish, respect, and enjoy water in all environments.

“I have lived by water all my life, I work with water in my paid career, and I am motivated to make sure my children and hopefully my mokopuna will grow up respecting and enjoying water the way all New Zealanders should.”