Aaron
Fleming

Motivated by a passion for positive change, Aaron Fleming is a dynamic and results-focused natural leader with a social conscience, thriving on navigating complexity. As a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, 19-time Ironman competitor, Olympic torchbearer, and author of the inspirational book Purpose, Aaron’s story is one of grit, service, and relentless determination.

Since 2017, Aaron has served as the Director of Operations for Southern South Island at the Department of Conservation / Te Papa Atawhai, overseeing nearly four million hectares of biodiversity-rich conservation areas. His region spans Otago, Fiordland, Murihiku/Southland, Rakiura/Stewart Island, and the World Heritage Sub-Antarctic Islands. Aaron’s purpose-driven leadership connects people to the whenua and helps ensure a thriving Papatūānuku, with visitor experiences playing a pivotal role in nurturing this connection.

Aaron is a highly experienced and trusted management executive with nationally recognised leadership credentials and a proven record of delivering outcomes through strategic transformation and the development of high-performing teams. He is a trusted advisor to boards, politicians, and CEOs, with expertise across operations, good governance, Māori resource management and relations, stakeholder engagement, change and risk management, project leadership, team development, internal and external communications, and public relations. Prior to DOC, he led strategic transformation initiatives for both Hamilton City Council and the Department of Internal Affairs.

A fierce competitor and symbol of endurance, Aaron has completed 19 Ironman Triathlons and recently achieved his goal of racing on every continent—a journey 18 years in the making. He is set to compete at the Ironman World Championships in France and has secured a coveted slot for Kona, Hawai’i in 2026, the sport’s pinnacle event. These achievements carry deeper meaning for Aaron, who was once told he would never be active again. After overcoming a severe health diagnosis, addiction, and depression, his transformation is a testament to resilience, courage, and personal reinvention.

His leadership and community service have earned him wide recognition, including appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2024 New Year Honours, two New Zealander of the Year Local Hero Awards, recognition as a Blake Leader Alumni – Emerging Leader, and finalist status for Young New Zealander of the Year. He also served as a New Zealand Ambassador and Olympic torchbearer at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Outside of his professional life, Aaron is a qualified Les Mills instructor and remains deeply engaged in community and public life. He continues to inspire others through his story, driven by purpose and a deep belief in the power of personal transformation.