Jay Johnson

Jay Johnson

Programme and Reintegration Practitioner

I whakapapa Te Auporui in the far north but grew up in Whitianga in the Coromandel Peninsula. My dream was to teach outdoor education in high schools but after some time teaching I realised my passion was taking young people on adventures in the outdoors, supporting them to learn how they can push themselves to overcome challenges as they navigate life.

I support a range of rangatahi, from those receiving the benefit and building work-readiness skills, through to young people involved in the corrections system, whether in the community or at the Christchurch Men’s Prison. I am big on advocacy and supporting anyone trying to navigate the systems out there.

I am super relaxed, love a bit of banter and bring both challenge and support to the work. Outside of work I am an average surfer, fast on a bike, and dabble in Aussie rules. I have three beautiful kids who enjoy getting outside, riding their bikes and hanging out at the beach.