Spondored: Local Legend: Jo Lane – December Winner

Jo Lane arrived in Marlborough in 1999 and quickly immersed herself in community life. She served nine years on St Mary’s School Board, taught Sunday School, and later became Youth Leader at Nativity Church, eventually taking on a paid role as Youth Pastor.

Her passion for youth continued as a Trustee and then Manager of Marlborough Youth Trust for over a decade. Jo led major initiatives like CACTUS, Youth and Emergency Services, and the Youth Employability Programme. She qualified as a youth worker, Whānau Ora Navigator, and NZQA tutor, training future youth workers—often in her own time. Under Jo’s leadership, the Youth Trust became a vibrant hub with spaces for dance, study, music, and relaxation, plus a kitchen, basketball courts, and a rock-climbing wall.

She also worked in employment recruitment, helping countless young people find jobs, and supported youth events, sports, and camps through fundraising efforts. Jo volunteered as a hospital chaplain, championed family violence prevention, and coordinated the Marlborough Foodbank Street Appeal each November, mobilising 350 volunteers.

Her home has always been open to exchange students and youth in need, all while raising five children and supporting her husband Chris in Boys’ Brigade. Widely respected, Jo’s tireless advocacy has left a lasting impact on Marlborough youth.

Many still stop her to say thanks. Congratulations, Jo Lane, our December Local Legend!