NICK ASHCROFT – OWNER

My journey into fitness began with my own transformation through CrossFit in 2012. Inspired by the impact it had on my body and mind, I shifted careers to help others experience the same. I went on to co-own the gym that started it all, refining my skills as both a Coach and PT.

In 2018, I returned home to Hawke’s Bay and founded The Hive—a space built on values of kindness, respect, and community. It’s a place where people work toward personal goals with support and purpose, together.

Every day I’m inspired by our members as they take on new challenges, support each other, and grow. As a CrossFit Kids Coach, I’m especially passionate about helping our next generation build confidence, move well, and find joy in exercise.

The Hive is more than just fitness—it’s about preparing you mentally and physically for whatever’s next, with care, connection, and a whole lot of fun.

 NICK ASHCROFT – OWNER

      QUALIFICATIONS

• Certified CrossFit Trainer – Level 3 (CFFT)
• CrossFit L1 Weightlifting Certificate
• CrossFit Kids Trainer
• Brand X Advanced Kids Certificate
• Training Pregnant and Postpartum Athletes Certificate
• NetFit Olympic Weightlifting Certificate (L1)
• National Certificate in Personal Training (L4)
• National Certificate in Fitness (L3)
• MAG Elementary Gymnastics Coach

I’ve been coaching since 2019, but I’ve always been around gyms. When the chance came to step up as a coach, I jumped on it—and never looked back. My coaching style is all about bringing the energy. I over-encourage (on purpose!) to help members feel confident, supported, and comfortable—whether they nail a movement or not.

I love running high-energy classes that get people working hard—think burpees, cardio, and serious endorphins. There’s nothing better than that post-WOD buzz when everyone’s breathless and buzzing.

What I love most about The Hive? The connection. It’s a small community where you really get to know people beyond just names.

Go-to tunes? Big Bootie Mixes—guaranteed hype.

I started in the pool but found my home on the bar (yes, pun intended). After building six studios focused on movement, growth, and community, I’ve seen how fitness creates resilience and a sense of belonging. Now, I coach to help others feel the same.

My style? Fun and all heart. I bring energy, care, and clarity to every session—so you feel seen, challenged, and proud. Vibes are high, but the standards are higher.

I love gymnastics, lifting, and mobility—plus a little dancing between sets (obviously).
The Hive feels like home: a beautiful space filled with warm, welcoming people.

Fun fact: I’m time-blind and rely on multiple alarms to wrap up classes on time—blame the vibes.

Go-to workout song? Sexy and I Know It by LMFAO… but don’t worry, I won’t play it on loop.

What started as a way to get fitter for rugby quickly turned into a full-blown obsession when I walked into my first CrossFit gym—and never looked back. My coaching style is pretty relaxed and personal; I like to adapt to each athlete, whether they thrive on being pushed or just want to move and enjoy the vibe.

I love the gritty workouts — give me a couplet or triplet, a rower, and some grunt work (just not running, thanks). My favourite thing about coaching at The Hive is the capped class sizes. With smaller groups, I get more one-on-one time with members and can really focus on coaching properly.

Fun fact: I once did the Murph workout every day for 36 days during lockdown—boredom hits differently.

Go-to workout music? Anything from the infamous Ollie Coaches Playlist.

I stumbled into CrossFit in 2017 when a friend dragged me to a class in Whanganui. I hated it at first—everyone seemed so much fitter and stronger than me—but I soon learned the beauty of leaving your ego at the door and competing only with yourself. That’s when I got hooked on the progress. In 2021, I moved back to the Bay and instantly knew The Hive was the place for me.

As a new coach, my goal is to create a welcoming, inclusive space where all fitness levels feel supported, the vibes are high, and fun is non-negotiable. I’m a sucker for a good chipper workout—give me a big job and a set time and I’ll grind it out until the clock stops.

The Hive truly is my happy place—a safe space to show up no matter my mood, work it all out, and leave feeling like a badass. The people here are the real magic: they cheer you on, lift you up, and make you feel part of something special.

My go to playlist? Much to the other coaches’ horror, I’m a country girl at heart— Luke Combs, CCR, or Chris Stapleton will be blasting through the speakers!

I used to think fitness was a waste of time—until I tried to impress a girl. I got the six-pack, dropped the weight… and she still wasn’t into athletes 🤣. But I fell in love with how training made me feel, and I’ve never looked back. Now it’s all about becoming the best version of myself—and helping others do the same.

My coaching is deeply personal. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, so I focus on building real relationships with clients. Trust and understanding comes first—because when we connect, we can train without fear or judgment.

What made The Hive stand out? The passion. From Nick to every member, the energy is contagious. It felt like home from day one—and I’ve never second-guessed joining the team.

Fun fact: I can make fart sounds using my eye socket. Seriously.

I’ve been active my whole life—playing just about every sport and hitting the gym since I was 15. I started coaching CrossFit and PT in 2014, driven by a love for fitness and a passion for sharing what I’ve learned.

My coaching style is technical over motivational—less about quotes, more about the “why” and “how.” I’m all about the heavy barbell, especially weightlifting and deadlifts.

The best part of coaching at The Hive? The members. Everyday legends showing up and pushing through life’s chaos—constantly inspiring.

Go-to workout song? Holding Out for a Hero by Bonnie Tyler. Certified banger.