MICHAEL GILLUM (TRAINER)

In December of 2010 Michael received a Queens Commission, and began his career the NZ Army as an officer in the Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment (RNZALR). Michael continues to serve to this day as a Captain posted to the New Zealand Army Logistics Operations School.

In January 2011 Michael discovered CrossFit. He became extremely passionate and began to compete competitively. In 2017 Michael qualified with his team, to compete at the CrossFit Games held in Madison, Wisconsin of the USA, placing 17th overall. Michael has competed in a number of both National and International CrossFit competitions, and more recently competed as part of a team in the 2022 GODZone Traverse, an eight day Expedition Race. Along with his athletic aspirations Michael is the founder of the New Zealand Nationals competitions which he continues to run to this day.

Michael is qualified as - Level One and Level Two CrossFit Trainer, CrossFit Strongman, Level Two Sports Power Coach, CrossFit Kids, as well as possessing a Diploma in Accounting. These courses have given Michael a valuable base of knowledge and insight into coaching and training techniques.

ALYSSA GILLUM (TRAINER)

Alyssa began her fitness journey as a child, finding a passion for health and wellbeing through the sport of running. When her and Michael Gillum opened CrossFit Taurus in Hamilton in 2013, she discovered the incredible benefits of training through functional fitness. An experienced educator, she is devoted to helping others learn within, through and around movement for lifelong wellbeing and performance.

Alyssa graduated from a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise in 2010 and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching in 2011. Since then, she has utilised her skills and gained experience as a classroom teacher, a personal trainer, group instructional trainer, an aqua fitness instructor and a fitness facility manager.

Alyssa is a proud Mum to Indie, currently holds the title of ‘Fittest Mum NZ’, and owns and operates our annual ladies only fitness competition, Beauty Beyond Strength. She facilitates workshops specialising in women in fitness, including postpartum and menopause, as well as workshops in nutrition, gymnastics, and running. Alyssa has helped many women nationwide as she provides online individual programming and coaching to those who wish to be the best they can be and continue to move as best as possible for as long as possible.

CATON DOONER (TRAINER)

Caton started his fitness journey in 2013 and found CrossFit Taurus in 2016. The community and performance driven environment had him captivated instantly. Through classes and coaching, he started to train as a competitive CrossFit athlete and weightlifter. Caton has been coaching with Taurus for 5+ years and thrives on helping others achieve their highest potential.

Seeing recent success taking athletes to New Zealand Nationals, Torian Pro and Down Under Championships, Caton aspires to grow the Team Taurus community as well as take his athletes to the next stage of their journey.

When not coaching our classes or athletes, Caton frequently trains with our classes and amongst our members.

“My favourite class would be the 4:50pm, I love the environment and atmosphere, as well as the intensity brought by the members.”

POUTAMA TAIAROA (TRAINER)

Pou is a very enthusiastic person who has a strong passion for improving overall health and well-being. He finds enjoyment in helping people become a better version of themselves and enjoying the process while doing so. Pou has graduated with a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise, with a Major in Physical Education at Massey University, became a lecturer for sport and exercise at UCOL, and more recently decided to return to Massey to complete a Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching. Growing up, Pou has been very passionate in sports, particularly rugby, boxing and athletics. He now has over 4 years of CrossFit experience, and can confidently say he has have found his passion.

CAMERON GILMORE (TRAINER)

Enthusiastic about fitness, Cam is a key contributor to the TeamTaurus community. He is currently serving in The New Zealand Army and has competed in the sport of CrossFit for over 5 years. Cam is loyal to his commitments, friends and family. He is genuine is his approach to coaching and training and continuously puts in extra effort to help others strive to achieve.

SASKIA KNIGHT (MEMBER MANAGER)

Currently studying at Massey University and will graduate in 2025 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science. She has already received a Diploma of Science in 2021. Saskia values authenticity, curiosity and gratitude. She strives to continuously explore and integrate holistic wellbeing into everyday life as she believes that balance is the key to fulfillment.

Saskia’s passion for team fitness started early in childhood through football and other highschool sports where she quickly found herself exploring leadership positions and coaching opportunities. She has her Junior and Youth Football Coaching Certificate Level 1 and Level 2 and has Coached U12 Whanganui Regional Representative Football in 2017 and 2018, along with other social teams. 

Saskia walked away from her first TeamTaurus crossfit class in July 2023 and was immediately drawn to the challenge. She quickly discovered the satisfaction in the continuous pursuit of personal growth in an environment that constantly encourages change, community, and excellence. She finds immense value in surrounding herself with people that inspire her to be more and will always seek out opportunities to learn.