Our People
Karen Osborne - Business Manager
Karen has been at Peninsula Golf Club as a member for 36 years and in the office since December 2011. Originally from an Office Management and Accounting background Karen is finding the smooth running of a golf club is an interesting and rewarding job with no two days the same. Next time you are in the area pop in and say Hello. The office is manned Monday to Friday.
Mike Duncumb - Golf Pro
A local Kiwi, Mike has spent all his working life in the golf industry with the last 16 of them as Head Professional/Director of Golf at some of the best clubs in New Zealand. Mike has worked hard to develop great teams of people overseeing all professional services, Member events, and hosting international guests and corporate clients. Mike has a very good understanding of the game of golf, as a player, a coach, as well as knowledge of golf course maintenance. Being the first point of contact for members, visitors, international tourists, corporate clients Mike prides himself on offering excellent customer service. In his own words “I am excited by the opportunity to develop my career at another world class venue through the introduction of Wainui to the Members, their guests, and the public.
Chris Davies - General Manager
Chris Davies is the General Manager of Wainui Golf & Function Centre, bringing over 30 years’ experience managing leading golf clubs in both the UK and New Zealand. Originally from Wrexham, North Wales, Chris held senior roles at Sheringham and Ferndown before moving to New Zealand in 2007. He spent 16 years as General Manager at Remuera Golf Club prior to joining Wainui in 2025. A Past President of CMA NZ, Chris was instrumental in introducing the CMAA Club Management Education Programme to New Zealand and continues to support its delivery. He lives with his wife Danielle, and has two children, son Rhys, and daughter Carys, and is a passionate football fan—especially of Liverpool FC and his hometown club, Wrexham AFC.
Matt Burton - Front of House Manager/Bar Manager
I had my first taste of hospitality while studying at university, and this quickly became what would be my passion and career for the past 25+ years. I have worked across a number of hospitality venues in roles ranging from conferencing, bar/cocktail work, café, restaurants and management in both New Zealand and England. My experience has seen me manage multiple venues seeing through re-fits, re-brandings and growing them into successful local establishments, as well as owning and operating my own businesses. A big part of hospitality for me has been establishing strong relationships with customers, staff and suppliers.
Richard Rickard-Simms - Executive Chef
With over 30 years of culinary experience across top venues in New Zealand and Australia, Richard leads the kitchen team at Wainui Golf Club with a passion for quality, sustainability, and memorable dining. Trained under German MasterChef Gottfried Meier, his career has spanned high-end restaurants, hotels, and multi-site operations—bringing a wealth of expertise to the Wainui experience. Raised with a strong connection to the land and sea, Richard is a proud advocate for farm-to-plate cooking and sustainable seafood. His menus reflect this philosophy, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients and a deep respect for where food comes from. Whether it’s a casual lunch, private event, or signature club function, Richard is dedicated to delivering exceptional food and warm hospitality for every member and guest.
Club Officers
Patron - Shirley Bawden
President - Hamish Mitchell
Men’s Captain - Stuart Fluker
Men’s Vice Captain - Michael Blom
Ladies Captain - Melissa Blom
Life Members - Ann Cambie, Barry Davison
Members of Board 2024 – 2025
- Hamish Mitchell - President
- Jim Hare - Chair
- David Thompson
- Jim Collings
- Tony Costello
- Val Dorling
Members of Golf Committee 2024 – 2025
- Stuart Fluker - Men's Captain
- Melissa Blom- Ladies Captain
- Michael Blom - Men's Vice Captain
- Hamish Mitchell- President
- Rosalind Cunningham
- Ken Dixon
- Barry McDowell
- Hayden Rogers
- Linda Cameron
- Paul Han
Wainui Careers
Main types of employment include:
- Course – Turf care and maintenance
- Sport - Club Professional, retail and driving range
- Hospitality – Chef, Food & Beverage servers, Front of House, Kitchen and Events
- Administration – General Manager, Finance, Human Resources, Property services, IT and Membership services