ABOUT

THE HOPE LAB IS A CHRISTIAN INITIATIVE DEDICATED TO HELPING EQUIP CHURCHES ACROSS AOTEAROA SHARE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS WITH CHILDREN & FAMILIES, AND THEIR WIDER COMMUNITIES.

We curate & create fun, engaging tools, programs, and training events that make it easier for local churches to connect with kids and whānau in their local community in meaningful, faith-filled ways.

Led by a collective of church leaders, creatives, and practitioners, our passion is to see more families come to know Jesus and to see communities transformed by the power of the gospel.

Founders

Dave Diack
Co-creator & Ministry Partnerships Lead

Dave has served on the leadership team at Manurewa Baptist Church since 2009 as the church’s Children and Families Pastor. He now also serves as the Children and Families Coach for Northern Baptist Association for Auckland and Northland.

Alongside his ministry work, Dave has been a teacher since 2000. His experience includes seven years at Greenmeadows Intermediate, and teaching part time at local primary, high school and special needs schools. His passion for helping children thrive has also seen him lead adventure-based programmes and camps since 2005.

Dave brings extensive experience in children’s ministry, teaching and leadership to The Hope Lab. Through his own experience and by working alongside ministry practitioners and as a ministry coach, he identifies needs and challenges facing those serving children. Working together, Dave and Richard turn these insights into practical, accessible resources and programs that work in real ministry settings. Dave also builds connections with churches and ministry leaders and leads workshops that equip and encourage those serving children.

Dave has been married to Emma for over 25 years, and together they have three children: Lucy, Asher and Joshua. He loves Jesus, surfing and trail running.

Richard Munro
Co-creator & Creative Strategy Lead

Richard is part of the leadership team and serves as Children’s Pastor at Coast Vineyard Church. Before joining Coast, he spent five years serving in children’s ministry at Manurewa Baptist Church, where he worked alongside Dave to help develop AMPED and created the church’s brand identity.

Alongside his ministry role, Richard runs Ark Creative, a design company specialising in brand strategy and identity. He brings this experience to Kickstart, leading its creative strategy and development and helping turn ministry ideas into practical, engaging resources that help children grow in faith and make ministry simpler for churches.

Richard lives in Whangaparāoa with his amazing wife Kylie and their three awesome kids Lyla, Jesse & Vida. He Loves Jesus, people and making the most of the beautiful beaches and the relaxed coastal lifestyle.