Lakes Ranch Christian Camp
Meet the Team
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Nikki Mellsop
Manager
Nikki has stepped into her role as manager with fresh vision and steady leadership, helping guide the Ranch towards even greater success. Nikki believes that at Lakes Ranch, we stand on a strong heritage shaped by all who have faithfully toiled this land and loved the campers over so many years. Surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation, it’s clear to Nikki that His hand is still at work here and that He has a continued plan for this place. Nikki says It’s a blessing to see so many come, experience the Ranch, and enjoy genuine hospitality in a safe, fun, and welcoming environment.
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Phil Mellsop
Property Manager
Phil has come on board as our property manager, bringing new ideas and a strong gift for problem-solving. With a hands-on approach and a knack for fixing anything, Phil plays a vital role in keeping the ranch running smoothly. His dedication to maintaining a tidy, well-kept environment ensures that every guest can fully enjoy their time here. Always willing to step in where needed, Phil fills gaps with humility and purpose, serving God through his work. His positive attitude and ability to create a joyful atmosphere makes him valued amongst the staff and volunteers.
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Scott Clifford
Chairman of the trustees board
Scott has been part of Lakes Ranch for over 20 years, bringing a wealth of experience and deep commitment to the community. His passion for helping people experience the beauty of creation has led him into a strong leadership role within a cohesive and dedicated team. Scott sees the ranch with its horses, activities, and lakes, as a special place where people can find true rest and renewal.
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Rob Newton
Host
Rob, one of our lead hosts, has a strong history with Lakes Ranch going back many years and brings deep connection and experience to his role. He serves the Lord through his work with exceptional hospitality and a genuinely welcoming nature. Rob consistently serves with joy and diligence, ensuring every group feels well looked after and at home. Alongside caring for guests, he also helps look after the ranch grounds and supports the team around him.
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Shiloh Morrison
Host
Shiloh has grown up on the Ranch and now serves here full time. She enjoys building relationships with staff and helping guide volunteers as they settle in. One of Shiloh’s highlights is getting to know the groups and joining in on activities with them, creating meaningful and memorable experiences. Alongside hosting, she also supports the office and horse team, stepping in wherever needed. Being able to work in a Christian environment has had a real impact on Shiloh, shaping both her work and her heart for serving others.
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Drikus Van Wyk
Facility Maintenance
Drikus joined Lakes Ranch and has quickly become a valued part of our team. He naturally connects with our groups, getting involved with people and helping create a welcoming, positive environment. He’s also incredibly handy, able to fix just about anything, making him a great support behind the scenes. Drikus deeply appreciates the peacefulness of working in God’s creation, bringing a calm and grounded presence to everything he does.
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Sheree Armstrong ( Cookie )
Camp Chef
Cookie, our talented chef has come onboard with our team and proves to be a delight. Cookie finds joy in cooking for others and bringing smiles to everyone she serves. She loves working surrounded by nature and values the peaceful, uplifting environment it creates. Passionate about her craft, Cookie aspires to make people happy through her cooking and appreciates God’s presence both in and out of the kitchen.
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Rob McMahon
Facility Maintenance
Rob is a dedicated maintenance worker who plays an important role in caring for the ranch and keeping everything running smoothly. He brings his God given gifts into the workplace, serving with diligence and a steady hand. Rob enjoys the peacefulness of the ranch and values the people he works alongside, contributing to the strong sense of community that makes the place so special.
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Volunteers
German Vollies
Our German volunteers have joined us for six months, bringing a heart to give back to the community while also growing and learning more about themselves. They love the variety each day brings at the Ranch, with versatile work that keeps things fresh and engaging. Living in a close-knit, community-style environment has been a highlight for them, allowing meaningful connections with onsite staff and families. They’ve embraced the Kiwi lifestyle, enjoying the peaceful, supportive atmosphere of the Ranch.
Do you feel like God is calling you to serve at Lakes Ranch?
We are always on the lookout for volunteers and helpers to join us. Do you have gifts or experience with children, general maintenance, ground care, working with horses, ministry or administration? Then get in touch with us to find out more. manager@lakesranch.org.nz