Dolf van Amersfoort was born in South Africa of Dutch parents. He moved to Rhodesia (now Zambia) where his father participated in building of Kariba Dam, the largest man-made lake in Africa.

After completing his schooling between Rhodesia and South Africa Dolf started an apprenticeship as a motor mechanic and continued on working as a mechanic, commissioning engineer in SA industry, and specialist technical liaison manager for South Africa’s Largest Automotive Company. He worked his way into the position of Regional Service Manager before venturing into establishing some small businesses in the SA auto industry.

In 2008 he sold his businesses and migrated to New Zealand where he has been living in Ashburton (Rangitata electorate) since, and is employed in the auto industry.

Dolf has been married to Elna since 1977 and they have two sons and three grandchildren.