Join us for an inspiring Learning Lunch with Major Dr Louise Speedy, a Hawke's Bay anaesthetist and intensive care specialist who has spent 26 years serving as a Medical Officer in the New Zealand Army Reserve Force. From joining as a medical student "just for something to do," Dr Speedy’s career has taken her across the globe, including deployments to Afghanistan and the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) in Hawaii.
She will share her incredible journey of balancing civilian hospital duties with military operations, whether that means setting up a Covid-19 ICU in three weeks or performing surgery in a field tent. Discover how military training fosters exceptional critical thinking and adaptability, and hear firsthand about the unique challenges and rewards of frontline medicine. This is a rare opportunity to learn from a truly remarkable local leader.
Availability is limited to 25 tickets.
What to Expect:
- Inspiring Insights: Hear Major Dr Louise Speedy share her remarkable 26-year journey from medical student to internationally deployed Military Medical Officer. From the frontlines of Afghanistan to the deck of a naval vessel in Hawaii, Dr Speedy's stories of resilience, critical thinking, and life-saving decisions under pressure will leave you informed, moved, and genuinely inspired.
- Delicious Lunch: Savour a beautifully crafted lunch menu designed to complement the spirit of the afternoon - fresh, seasonal, and thoughtfully prepared. Each dish is paired to enhance your experience, making this as much a feast for the senses as it is for the mind.
- Meaningful Connection: With only 25 seats, this intimate setting is designed for genuine conversation. Whether you are reconnecting with old friends or meeting new ones, the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to mingle, share stories, and leave with connections that matter.
Secure your ticket today and prepare for an afternoon of wonderful food, moving stories, and brilliant company.
Please note: We cater to most dietary requirements with prior notice. Please advise us of any allergies when booking.
Date: Thursday October 15, 2026 11:00-1:30pm
Location: Hygge at Clifton Bay Clifton Road, Te Awanga, New Zealand
About the experts
Major Dr Louise Speedy
Major Dr Louise Speedy is a distinguished anaesthetist and intensive care specialist based in Hawke's Bay. For the past 26 years, she has proudly served as a Medical Officer in the New Zealand Army Reserve Force. Joining as a second-year medical student, her military career has taken her on numerous international deployments, including serving in Afghanistan and participating in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) in Hawaii aboard the HMAS Canberra.
Dr Speedy is passionate about the intersection of military and civilian medicine. She credits her Defence Force training with honing the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to lead a team in establishing a Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit in just three weeks. A dedicated professional, mother, and community member, Dr Speedy continues to inspire others with her ability to balance a demanding medical career with her commitment to the New Zealand Defence Force.
Christina Tay - Learning Facilitator
Christina is a lifelong learner with a profound passion for exploring diverse cultures and disciplines. Her curiosity has inspired extensive global travel, from teaching English to Buddhist monks in Laos and volunteering at a Thai orphanage to visiting museums across Europe, the UK, and Asia. A highlight of her travels is the Bishop Museum in Hawai'i, which she visits frequently, including during the 2014 World Indigenous Peoples' Conference on Education.
Her academic journey began with law and politics at Waikato University, where she discovered dispute resolution. She subsequently earned a Master’s in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from Strathclyde University, UK. This period included an exchange at the East China University of Political Science and Law in Shanghai and research in Hong Kong on the ombudsman's role.
Currently a Learning Facilitator for Love Heart Social Learning, Christina also teaches the Restorative Practices microcredential at Victoria University. A fully accredited restorative justice facilitator and assessor, she recently delivered mediation training in Micronesia. Previously, she served as Director of Employee Assistance Resolution Services at Victoria University.
Outside of work, Christina enjoys connecting with loved ones and attending international events, such as the 2025 Restorative Practices conference in Singapore, to continually expand her expertise.
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