Ross was born and grew up in Papatoetoe, South Auckland. After leaving school, he worked for several years for the Bank of New Zealand, and while there became aware of a vocation to ordained ministry.  

Ross trained at what is now Laidlaw College, and then St John’s College in Auckland. He was ordained in 1989 and served in a number of Auckland parishes before becoming Dean of Holy Trinity Cathedral, and then in 2010 being appointed as Anglican Bishop of Auckland.  

Alongside his church ministry, Ross has 35 years of service as a volunteer in Fire and Emergency NZ. He is currently Deputy Chief of the Auckland Operational Support Unit. His work with FENZ brought him into contact with St John operational staff and sparked his interest in the work of the Order of St John as a whole. He was part of work to re-invigorate chaplaincy, he was the keynote speaker at the inaugural Order Conference, and has offered personal support to different staff over the years. Ross’ contributions were recognised by his appointment as an Officer of the Order in 2020. His work with FENZ has also been recognised with the award of a Queen’s Service Medal in 2022. 

Ross is married to Jacquie who is a research scientist at Auckland University. He enjoys playing squash and walks with their two dogs. Ross is excited about the opportunities that the role of Priory Dean will offer him to make a greater contribution to the work of the Order.