Kia ora, I’m Jodie Armstrong-Downes.

Originally from the UK, I’m now based in the Northland of Aotearoa, my forever land. My passion for travel and nature has taken me to remote landscapes—from sitting with lemurs under Madagascar’s baobabs to cruising the Nile in Egypt and experiencing Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater. These experiences shaped my love for eco-conscious travel and connecting deeply with the land.

In 2019, I became certified in forest therapy after witnessing its dramatic effects on my own life. Forest therapy is a world-leading, emerging practice recognized for its profound emotional, mental, and physical health benefits. I am proud to be part of a new wave of practitioners guiding people into the forest and back into real connection—with nature and themselves.

With a prior career in corporate leadership and strategy, combined with my background in business psychology and understanding of the key drivers of human nature, I have a deep appreciation for the needs of businesses and individuals alike. I can vouch for the power of this practice in supporting the rejuvenation and wellbeing of the human psyche—whether at work or away.

Today, I integrate nature therapy and mindfulness into luxury wellness retreats and corporate team-building experiences, helping individuals and businesses navigate stress, burnout, and decision-making from a place of clarity. I also run public walks to make forest therapy accessible to more people across New Zealand.

At NOGA Nature Connection, I’m dedicated to offering bespoke outdoor wellness experiences that restore, reconnect, and inspire growth.