Staff & Leadership Team

Peter & Annika Morton - Senior Pastors
Peter began his church ministry as a worship leader and has been in full-time Christian ministry since 1998. During the 1990’s Peter and Annika travelled extensively throughout New Zealand, ministering prophetically and leading churches into encounters with God. They live in Howick with their three children; Nathan, Annalia and Jaden.

Dean Smyth - Ministries Director
Dean has been in full-time Christian ministry since 1999 and was instrumental in organising Face2Face conferences and events across the nation from 1995-2004. Dean oversees all aspects of the administration and finances of The River. He lives in Farm Cove with his wife Philippa, and their son Micah.

River Leadership Team (Elders)
Peter & Annika Morton
Jim & Wendy Thornburrow
Chris & Karen Redwood
Dean & Philippa Smyth
Richard & Natasha Kestle