Old boy returns to share his vision

INSPIRING: Philip Kelly, former Makoura College student and Sir Peter Blake Dream team member, speaks to Makoura College students about his leadership journey. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

A group of Makoura College students got a sneak peek of Tourism New Zealand's latest ad campaign - before even Minister of Tourism and Prime Minister John Key.

The campaign's art director is former student Philip Kelly, who came to the school on Monday to inspire students as part of the Sir Peter Blake Trust leadership week.

Mr Kelly, born in Masterton, said he struggled at school but has made a successful 30-year career as a photographer, typographer, graphic designer and art director. He trained at Wellington Polytechnic and has been around the world working on award-winning ad campaigns and design projects.

He told the Year 12 and 13 students it was a rewarding career.

"Everybody has to make a living ...if you can do it as a creative person it's a lovely way to live."

Mr Kelly moved to New York in 1998 and designed ads and branding for De Beers diamond company, Smirnoff and Rolex to name just a few.

He has worked on branding for Two Degrees, Serato DJ software, and his latest client is ultimately, John Key.

He said he was halfway through a print and video ad campaign project for Tourism New Zealand which hadn't always been an easy process - he pitched 12 campaign ideas until one was accepted.

"Sticking at it is really important," he said.

"Some of these things take a long time.

"The people with the talent are also the ones who are the hardest working."

He credits Makoura teachers like John Christensen and Trevor Morris for helping him make it through seventh form in 1981 to get his bursary.

"My educational experience was super positive here."

Mr Kelly was one of the trust's 300 Dream Team members, including Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae, who spoke at schools around New Zealand on Monday.

The leadership week began with the Sir Peter Blake Leadership Awards and will close on Red Socks Day, on Friday.