Terri grew up in Dunedin and Hastings, attending high school at Flaxmere College where she enjoyed playing netball, being a part of Females on the Move, and also being on the 2021 Student Executive Team. Since leaving school Terri has worked in horticulture, retail, and hospitality.  

Terri joined HBREDA in 2023 and supports manager Mardi Thompson-Jopling as Kaiāwhina, hosting meetings and events, completing administrative tasks, and helping ensure Te Rae is a warm and welcoming place for everyone who enters its doors.