Ian Tarbotton

About Me

I grew up in a Christian family on a sheep and deer farm in Canterbury, one of five children. Boarding school was spiritually tough, but Easter Camps were a lifeline. At university, I made a public commitment to Jesus and have seen Him work in powerful ways since. Nicky and I have been married 33 years, with three married children and two grandsons. Family is central to our lives and something I believe the church must nurture. We’re blessed with a close group of friends we’ve journeyed with for 30 years, meeting annually over Labour Weekend.

My career has been in Primary Industries—starting in research, then moving into strategic change projects. One highlight was exploring how farmers connect when making changes, which now makes me reflect on how people connect when exploring faith. I’ve worked across NZ, in the Pacific, and Australia, including disaster relief.

Now based in Tauranga, I work as a consultant helping projects make a positive impact through strategy, facilitation, and training. I stay active through running, biking, skiing, and exploring.

What Do I Bring to the Eldership Role?

Enthusiasm for people finding a way to be part of Gods plan for their life.

A big picture and longer term perspective as well as an empathy for genuine partnerships which will extend the positive impact of our young church. We have been members of GSB for eight years but believe we, as a church, have a long way to go to fulfil Gods will for GSB.

I have over 10 years experience of being an Elder in a Baptist Church and also have formal governance training from the Institute of Directors. However, each church has its’ unique character and we need to develop ours and understand Gods’ will for GSB in this region.

Hope for GSB

That the right people, are in the right places, for the right reasons, at the right time.

I would love us to be a really appreciative church along with

Support for overseas missions

Parenting courses run at GSB

That we have a high profile in our community as a great facility and welcoming, worthwhile place to visit on a Sunday.