Ainsley has a background in strategic development and a keen interest in philanthropy. She played an instrumental role in the establishment of the Hororata Community Trust in 2010 and continues her support of this community as a Trustee.

Ainsley has been involved in a number of fundraising projects and has a keen interest in the arts, particularly sculpture and more recently orchestral performances. She sits of the board of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, is a trustee of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Foundation and a trustee of the Hororata Community Trust. Ainsley has a Bachelor of Management Studies (first class) from Waikato University and divides her time between home in Takapuna and farm life in Canterbury.