About the van Asch Foundation.
The van Asch Foundation exists to inspire young New Zealanders to discover their inner bravery and resilience, equipping them with the tools to thrive in an ever-changing world. We aim to create a future where every individual has the confidence and courage to unlock their full potential.
Our Story
Founded by Henry van Asch, co-founder of AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand, the foundation carries forward a legacy of daring innovation and bravery. With over 35 years of experience inspiring millions to take leaps—both literal and figurative—Henry established the foundation to empower communities with the same resilience and self-belief that has defined his career.
Our Mission
To empower individuals — particularly young New Zealanders —with the tools, mindset, and opportunities needed to navigate life’s uncertainties and challenges.
Our Vision
A future where every young New Zealander feels confident and resilient in facing challenges and pursuing their potential.
Our Values
Trustees
Henry van Asch
Henry van Asch is the co-founder and Managing Director of AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand, a pioneering company that revolutionised adventure tourism.
With over 35 years of experience inspiring millions of people to push their limits, Henry has a deep passion for fostering courage, resilience, and self-belief.
Through the van Asch Foundation, he channels his expertise into empowering New Zealand communities, particularly young people, to embrace challenges and achieve personal growth.
Julia Vallance
Julia is a commercial property partner in the Christchurch office of the national law firm Buddle Findlay and has over 18 years of experience in the legal industry. She has particular expertise in trust, charity and not-for-profit law and frequently advises charitable organisations throughout New Zealand in relation to legal compliance matters. Julia is committed to empowering individuals to unleash their full potential and thrive and is dedicated to fostering positive change in communities.
"It is an honour to support the van Asch Foundation with its transformative The Leap Within programme to enable youth to "live brave and fear less", providing them with opportunities to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential".
Team
Sarah Lyttle
Sarah Lyttle is CEO of the van Asch Foundation, dedicated to building courage and resilience in young people. With a background in philanthropy and leadership, she brings a passion for impact, helping individuals' step beyond fear and realise their potential. Sarah's true passion is about helping people step closer to the edge of who they are and take the leap.
Poppie Johnson
Poppie Johnson, PhD: A former English teacher, dean, and head of department at Wakatipu High School, Poppie holds a PhD in Creative Writing from the University of Sydney and works across the Foundation's curriculum alignment, school engagement, and evidence-based positioning for government and funding audiences.
Matt Hollyer
Matt connects the schools, the Foundation and AJ Hackett Bungy operations, making sure everything is in place so the learning experience is first‑class. He loves being part of a programme that gives schools and students opportunities to build resilience and bravery.
Helen Forsyth
Helen Forsyth is the dynamo behind the scenes at the van Asch Foundation. As Executive Assistant to Henry van Asch, she is an admin and management superstar bringing precision, organisation, and calm to complex moving parts, and ensuring everything runs seamlessly.
Dr Lucy Hone
Dr Lucy Hone is an internationally recognised resilience researcher, bestselling author, and co-designer of The Adult Leap Within. She helps people build practical, science-backed skills to navigate uncertainty, manage pressure, and respond to life’s challenges with greater courage and confidence.
Dr Natalie Flynn
Dr Natalie Flynn is a clinical psychologist and co-designer of The Leap Within, supporting individuals and communities to develop practical tools for emotional regulation, confidence, and navigating life’s challenges.
Nigel Latta
Nigel Latta was one of New Zealand’s most respected clinical psychologists, known for making complex science practical and accessible. A founding contributor to The Leap Within, he helped shape its evidence-based approach to building courage and resilience. His legacy continues to inspire people to navigate challenge and step forward with confidence.
Get involved
Who we work with.
AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand
AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand is proud to support the van Asch Bungy Foundation and its flagship programme, Live Brave. Drawing on over 35 years of experience inspiring courage and confidence, this partnership helps empower young New Zealanders to embrace bravery, build resilience, and unlock their full potential.
bungy.co.nz
Buddle Findlay
Live Brave is designed to tackle the mental health challenges facing our youth today. By providing structured adventure-based learning and mentorship, we give participants the tools to navigate life's "big jumps" with steady nerves and a supported community behind them.
View Programme Details
Central Lakes Trust
Success isn't just about the thrill; it's about the growth that follows. Over the past year, our partnership has reached hundreds of young Kiwis, fostering a culture where vulnerability is seen as a strength and every challenge is an opportunity to prove what is possible.
Read Impact ReportInterested in getting involved?
Partner with the van Asch Foundation and help inspire the next generation of courageous, resilient young New Zealanders. By supporting our transformative programmes like The Leap Within, your business can make a meaningful impact on youth development while aligning with values of bravery, empowerment, and community. Join us in building a braver future — together.