Unwin Lodge Managers
David Newstead and Jeong-Hee Shin-Newstead are long-time members of the New Zealand climbing community who will be taking on the role of Unwin Lodge Managers. David began climbing in Christchurch in the mid-1980s and has remained deeply involved ever since, from sport climbing and alpine trips throughout Aotearoa to route development and indoor climbing support.
Alongside his climbing life, David brings a background in hospitality, education, and organisational leadership, including years working for outdoor retailers and climbing gyms, and senior roles in New Zealand-based technology companies and startups.
Jeong-Hee has worked in the fashion and garment construction industry for many years, later managing a retail fabric store in Dunedin where she built a strong, supportive community around practical skills and shared interests.
Jeong-Hee brings a calm, organised approach to people and routines, a love of cooking and hosting, and a steady presence well suited to the rhythm of lodge life.
Together, David and Jeong-Hee see Unwin Lodge not just as accommodation, but as a place of connection, preparation, and shared mountain culture, and they’re looking forward to welcoming members and guests into the lodge in the seasons ahead.