Nellie has always had a passion for the performing arts encouraged by her late grandmother, New Zealand director and actor Dame Patricia Evison.

Since the age of five, Nellie has studied dance at Southern Ballet Theatre, specialising in ballet, jazz and contemporary dance. She has performed in many of their shows and has gained a solo performance diploma in jazz and contemporary dance.

Nellie has also studied drama at Christchurch Girl’s High School and has been an active member of their auditioned choir for three years.