Q&A Korrin Barrett

Quadruple amputee, mentor and keynote speaker

What’s one place you would take every visitor to New Zealand, and why?

New Zealand is such a beautiful country, every inch needs to be explored. Having grown up in the South Island, I never truly appreciated its beauty until I moved away, then started holidaying there. Central Otago is my favourite place. The scenery changes with each season, and it can be enjoyed at any time of year.

What’s your secret backyard favourite spot?

Living in Hawke’s Bay we are spoilt for choice with so many amazing cafes, wineries, outdoor adventure spots, and natural landscapes, but nothing beats driving up the back of a local farm to watch the sunset.

What’s your favourite place for a pie/coffee?

Definitely our local coffee shop, Red Bridge, or Hygge for the sea views and amazing scones. Having amputations to all four limbs can be quite daunting when visiting new places. However, I find accessibility in New Zealand is improving greatly. Business owners seem more open to suggestions for improving access or experiences for those travelling with limitations.

What’s one New Zealand spot on the top of your bucket list?

A scenic flight over Milford Sound to land on the glaciers would be amazing – not easy with two prosthetic legs. I have also never skied. However, Cardrona does have an Adaptive Snow Sports programme, so maybe I could squeeze that in too? All that adventure would have to be followed with a nice, relaxing spa treatment.

Korrin Barrett mentors students at Woodford House through its Shine Strengths programme. Visit korrin.nz.