Started in 2005 our mission was to change the perception of the security officer through delivering World class, trained professionals, dedicated to protecting people and property in both the public and private sectors
A growth of 10,000% in eight years from 2011-2023 has seen us show that by having a passion for excellence through the training of our staff and utilizing the latest technological advances from around the World to safeguard our clients, we are fast becoming New Zealand’s Security Company of choice when it comes to delivering peace of mind.
Matt Wood CEO & Director
Darla Drake
National Operations
Michael McBurney
Queenstown Operations
Rainbow Manley Training & Development
Matt is the CEO and Director of the October Protection Group.
Matt’s passion for the business has driven him since he joined in 2010 and it is this driving force and passion that keeps October Protection thriving at the level it is today.
Matt has worked as a close protection operative, self defence trainer and security operative for over 24 years. He has also provided Risk Management and Close Protection services to many VIPs, celebrities and dignitaries.
Holding a diploma in Criminal Psychology Matt's consultancy work means he is on advisory panels for many areas of the Security and Protection Industry
While obtaining a degree in Policing and Canadian law, Darla entered the security and private investigations industry in Canada in 2007. Originally joining October Protection with our Queenstown department in 2015, we have recently been honoured to have Darla join the Christchurch head office as Events and Projects Manager. Trained in civil and criminal law, criminal psychology, investigation and police aptitude, Darla brings a multitude of skill, knowledge, and experience, including the planning and working of large-scale events. Darla holds a passion to enhance staff capabilities to their full potential, ensuring the provision of top-quality service and professional security for your event, project or site.
She brings a wealth of knowledge and an enthusiasm that inspires her teams to be the very best they can be.
Michael has been with the business for several years now, starting in the hospitality division before moving into a Supervisor role in 2019. Through the pandemic, Michael showed his versatility and adapted to the needs of other areas of the industry, heading up our Mobile Patrols and Static Division. In 2022 Michael was promoted to Operations Manager for the Queenstown branch and has fast become the face of security and helped to grow the business in his short tenure to date.
As her name suggests, Rainbow is multi skilled trainer with 2 decades of experience in the education, security, and service sectors.
Rainbow brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in learning theory and design. A qualified assessor and adult tutor,
Rainbow builds strong networks and rapport with clients and staff in the industry, to assess and deliver services which meet their individual needs.
Currently completing a double degree in Law and Criminal Justice through University of Canterbury, Rainbow works part time with October Protection to deliver security qualifications and training courses, while supporting the Management team with operations. A mother of four, she is passionate about professional development, quality service and the growth of quality security professionals.
She shares Matt’s interest in Psychology and human behaviour, and is a great fit for the OPG team.
Jason Hester Project Manager
Jason joined the team at October Protection in 2022. He brings a wide range of skill sets developed over a period of 18 years working in the security industry in Australia. His experience was gained from working within health sector to high profile corporate sites and various other roles within the security industry.
Jason is committed to motivating and developing his team to be the best they can be by providing a higher-than-expected service for all key stakeholders.