We are delighted to welcome Sara Crow as the new Manager of the Sustainable South Canterbury Trust.
In late 2025, our Trustees undertook a review of the SSCT current operations and future direction. From this, it became clear that as we continue to grow, we needed dedicated leadership to support our day-to-day operations while also helping drive future developments across the site. The Manager role was created with this in mind and following strong interest – with 47 applicants and an exceptionally high standard of finalists – we are thrilled to have found the right fit in Sara.
Sara brings a wealth of experience in the not-for-profit and social services sector, with a strong foundation in financial management, service delivery, and organisational development. Her leadership experience includes senior roles at MHAPS, where she managed significant contracts, led large teams, and ensured robust governance and operational systems. She has also played key roles in strengthening and revitalising community initiatives such as the Dunedin Curtain Bank, alongside contributing to innovative projects focused on community wellbeing.
With a background in social work, Sara has long been drawn to community development, and this role provides a natural alignment between her professional experience and her personal passion for environmental care. Her approach looks at the Trust holistically – supporting the full scope of our site, from daily operations through to future opportunities like the community garden, native nursery, and completion of the playground.
Sara joins us from managing the SPCA shop in Kaikōura, and has made the move to Timaru to take up this role. She officially started with us in early March and is already bringing energy and clarity to both our current work and what lies ahead.
Looking to the future, Sara’s vision closely reflects the values of the Trust – creating a welcoming haven for individuals and whānau. A place where people can come to relax, connect, and learn through our unique environment, from the Raptor Trust and Ōtipua Wetlands to the Crow’s Nest and Eco Centre. Alongside this, she sees opportunities to strengthen access to affordable, sustainable living through the Crow’s Nest and the potential for a market stall featuring homegrown produce.
We are incredibly excited about this next chapter. Sara’s experience, passion, and community-focused mindset will help guide the Sustainable South Canterbury Trust as we continue to grow and deepen our impact across South Canterbury.
If you see Sara around the Crow’s Nest or Eco Centre, be sure to say hello and join us in giving her a warm welcome.
Contact Sara at sara@scecocentre.org.nz
Pictured is Sara’s dog Pudding who you might see around here and an example of Sara’s upcycling of old fabrics.
