The Central App’s newest team member Kate Hickmott arrived in Central last June, moving from the United Kingdom after falling in love with the country during a working holiday years earlier.

Kate said her husband got a job with a Central Otago based information technology company, so she researched places to call home within the region and settled on Alexandra.

“It has a huge draw, in terms of bike tracks, facilities - especially the ice rink and good schools.”

Kate, who joined the team this month, is covering staff member Caitlyn Thomson’s maternity leave and helping on the client and administrative side of The Central App. 

“Since arriving in New Zealand, I've been busy exploring and studying towards a Diploma in Digital Marketing which I obtained just before Christmas. 

“I also volunteer for Central Cinema and look after their social media on Facebook and Instagram.”

Kate said she hopes to help small business clients reach their potential and achieve their vision.

 “What I've realised from years in hospitality, is that it's authenticity and telling your story that truly builds relationships.”

Along with hospitality, Kate has experience in events management and customer service. 

When she’s not working she enjoys being outdoors and spending time with hubby, and her two teenage daughters. 

“You'll see me and my husband out on the bike trails or day hiking most weekends. Since getting a gimbal for Christmas, I'm out filming on my mobile in my spare time, improving my videography skills too.”

“Central is a unique place, with a diverse population, and seems to be an area of growth and increasing popularity. 

“I've enjoyed learning about Central Otago's gold mining heritage and how this landscape has been shaped by nature and its people. The bike trails are a great way of showcasing this. It feels like we've arrived at an exciting time for the region.”

Read more: Welcome Shannon Thomson interim editor

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