Kia ora, ocean lovers!
My name is Tyla, and I’m absolutely ecstatic to be part of the Dive HQ crew! Diving is a huge passion of mine and I am so excited to share that with others. I’ve just recently relocated to Wellington to be part of this awesome Dive HQ whānau, and I’m beyond keen to meet you all, talk diving, and head out on some epic underwater adventures together!
A little about me—I grew up squeezing in beach missions between gymnastics trainings and school to chase waves, surf, snorkel, free dive, and even get into a bit of spearfishing.
Scuba diving had always been on my bucket list, but it wasn’t until my second year at university—after I’d retired from competitive gymnastics—that I finally had the time to take the plunge!
I signed up for a three-month summer scuba course taking me to rescue diver at Auckland Scuba, and got completely hooked! From there, I juggled university study in Marine Biology and Fine Arts with my scuba instructor training until I proudly became a PADI Specialty Scuba instructor and graduated from the University of Auckland.
I’m also a multidisciplinary artist, working mostly in sculpture and photography. My creative practice is rooted in environmental advocacy and I am often using recycled and found materials in the process and creation of my works. Through my creative practice I endeavor to spark conversations about how we can interact and care for the underwater world more consciously.
Whether I’m underwater or elbows-deep in a messy art project, I’m all about creating fun, inclusive spaces to learn, explore, and connect with Te Taiao (the natural world). Look out for a couple of my sculptures when you are next in at the shop!
I’ve just recently relocated to Wellington to be part of this awesome Dive HQ whānau, and I’m beyond keen to meet you all, talk diving, and head out on some epic underwater adventures together.
When I’m not underwater, you’ll probably find me transforming trash into art, out in the wild with my camera, hanging upside down (old habits die hard), or in the dive shop… struggling to put out the Dive HQ flags because I’m fun-sized.
Sea you all soon!
Tyla 🌊🤿🐟