I was born in Hastings to Colin & June Hardie, educated at Rudolf Steiner, Mahora, Heretaunga Intermediate, and Lindisfarne College.
After leaving school I trained and completed an apprenticeship as an Automotive Engineer. In 2006 I became a partner in Gentle Touch Funeral Services. In 2009, I started full time at Gentle Touch Funeral Services. I feel that i'v found a career which means so much to me. Spending time with family and friends means a lot as you really do get to know the value in doing this, when working as a Funeral Director. In 2018 I become a qualified embalmer, I felt this was an important step so that families know their loved one's as been correctly looked after. While away from work I do enjoy working on American sports cars and playing Golf.
I have found that helping families, and by being able to assist them in creating a meaningful, personal service for their loved one at such a difficult time, is very important to me.
Passionate, calming, empathetic and a great sense of humour is how my friends, family and colleagues would describe me,
Also a woman of many talents and trades.
I moved to the beautiful Hawkes Bay 5 years ago from sunny Nelson, where I have settled into the gorgeous spot of East Clive with my husband and two very energetic but awesome children.
Previously I was a trainer for Air NewZealand flight attendants for nearly 9 years and over that time I thoroughly enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life, hearing their stories and of course the travel.
Since giving up my flying career to be a mum, I soon discovered that I wasn't cut out for the stay at home mum role as I missed the interaction with people, so ventured off to start my own business of event planning/catering and 9 years ago became a registered New Zealand Celebrant.
With over 15 years of public speaking experience and a real passion for people and their wellbeing, I spend more of my time doing what I love and that's being a celebrant/director for weddings and funeral services, where I listen, take on board families needs and create a personal service to reflect that special someone's personality and their wishes.
Knowing I can help families at such a difficult time and provide ease, comfort and a helping hand, whilst reflecting on that loved ones life is extremely important to me.
I am surrounded by my loving family situated in a semi-rural setting here in Hawkes Bay. I enjoy the outdoors, gardening, and flower arranging. I was educated at Puketapu School, Hukarere Maori Girls College. I then studied and graduated with a Diploma in Travel & Tourism which enabled me to join the Airline industry, I was able to travel around the world, meeting all walks of life and a lot of fabulous people along the way. I am very down-to-earth, approachable, and easy to talk to. I am humbled to be able to help people through one of the most difficult times of their lives and to be a part of the great team here at Gentle Touch Funerals.
Kia Ora, My name is Brooke. I am the friendly face who will greet you as you come through the door. I have a creative flare and passion for uniqueness which I implement into my work. I have deep empathy for families going through the toughest times and am honoured to be able to support them.
In my downtime I am a loving partner and mother to two crazy beautiful twins. We enjoy the simple things in life and spending time together adventuring the Bay.
I am honoured to work alongside the Gentle Touch team who share my passion for giving our loved ones the celebration of life they deserve.
We are here to help you 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
