Dr. Krista van der Linde
Founder – Moana Mark
It is my privilege to be the Founder of Moana Mark. I have 17 years of experience in marine conservation initiatives in New Zealand as a specialist Marine Mammal Biologist. I have seen many businesses benefit from their local environment without giving back, often due to a lack of awareness and relevant research projects. I founded Moana Mark to make it easy for businesses to fund local marine projects and have their commitment recognised.
Why Kaikōura?
I am based in Kaikōura, Moana Mark’s founding region, because of its incredible marine mammal populations, booming eco-tourism industry, and the need for more research initiatives. This unique environment presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between tourism and conservation, ensuring businesses play an active role in protecting our marine ecosystems.
Through Moana Mark, I aim to create a sustainable framework that enables long-term marine research, supports businesses in their conservation journey, and inspires industry-wide change.
Chris Sturgeon
Director – Hapuku Kitchen; Deputy Chair – Destination Kaikōura; Programme Lead – Kaikoura Marine Development
Nearly 17 years ago, my wife Fiona and I returned to the South Island to reconnect with my whakapapa and establish Hapuku Kitchen, an artisan business and residential cooking school. During this time, we also took on the management of a local luxury lodge, immersing ourselves in the fast-paced world of tourism. Having previously spent close to 20 years in corporate finance and banking in Wellington, I continue to operate a business redevelopment, project management, and transformation consultancy.
Commitment to Kaikōura & Moana Mark
Moving to Kaikōura allowed me to bring my commercial expertise, advocacy skills, and tourism connections to the board. I have a deep passion for Kaikōura, its whenua and moana, and how regenerative tourism sustains our community.
It is an honor to work alongside Dr. Krista van der Linde as part of Moana Mark’s evolution and to serve as Kaitiaki for our precious taonga. E whakahīhī ana ahau ki te mahi ki te taha o ētahi atu mema kaingākau o te poari i runga i tēnei Kaupapa me te tautoko i ngā mahi matakite a Krista.
Alex Dykman
Founder – Maverick Digital / Grow Tourism
With a tourism career spanning a decade, my experience is centred on digital transformation and empowering tourism to drive positive change. From Tourism NZ to founding Maverick Digital, I have worked with a diverse range of operators and destinations, including Hobbiton Movie Set, South Sea Cruises (Fiji), and Destination Kaikōura. More recently, I co-founded Grow Tourism, a learning platform designed to equip New Zealand’s tourism workforce with the tools to deliver sustainable, high-value experiences for future travelers.
Empowering Tourism for Positive Impact
My experience working with tourism’s varied stakeholders has given me a deep understanding of the industry’s challenges and opportunities. I’ve always believed tourism has the power to create a lasting positive impact on visitors, indigenous cultures, host communities, and operators alike.
Moana Mark provides tourism businesses with the tools to drive meaningful, purpose-driven change, transforming ‘hui’ into ‘do-ey’ and fostering a thriving marine environment. There’s so much potential here for powerful storytelling and impact across Aotearoa, and I’m passionate about helping supercharge that vision.
Emile van der Linde
General Manager – Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
My hospitality and tourism career began immediately after school, when I joined an in-house Hospitality Management training program at Protea Hotels in South Africa. Based at Protea Hotel San Lameer, I travelled to other hotels within the group, learning how different properties operate. This experience fuelled my passion for the industry and allowed me to explore various cultures and ways of life. After working in South Africa, England, and New Zealand, I joined Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses 15 years ago as a lodge manager.
Developing Moana Mark and Giving Back
As a lodge manager, I wanted to offer guests more than just a place to stay and dine. I envisioned an experience where visitors could enjoy the beauty of Kaikōura while contributing to the community. After brainstorming with my wife Krista, the idea for Moana Mark was born.
With the support of Hapuku Lodge owner Tony Wilson, we proudly became the inaugural partner of Moana Mark. Through this initiative, we support marine research by donating a portion of our proceeds and providing the use of a marine lab for research purposes.
Gisela Purcell
Sustainability Advocate – Tourism Industry Aotearoa
I have a wide understanding of the tourism sector and business management. In my current role, I work both strategically and operationally to ensure that New Zealand’s tourism sector follows a regenerative approach, balancing community, visitor, environmental, and economic sustainability. My experience with the Nelson Regional Development Agency provided me with insights into the challenges facing tourism operators, destination management, community engagement, and the importance of collaboration with local councils. This led to creating New Zealand’s first zero-carbon holiday itinerary, which won a national tourism award for collaboration.
Commitment to Sustainability and Community Engagement
I am a founding member of the Nelson Tasman Climate Forum and serve as a tourism specialist advisor for the Mission Zero initiative. I also contributed to the Kotahitanga Mo Ta Taio Alliance, a large-scale biodiversity project. Additionally, I am president of the local SKAL group and a former board member of Trade Aid.
My academic background includes an MA in international development, with a focus on mentoring entrepreneurs, a certificate in Regenerative Tourism, and a Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism. In my spare time, I enjoy sea kayaking and scuba diving in Te Tauihu.
Krissy Griggs
Visitor Markets Manager – ChristchurchNZ
I started my tourism career in 1997, working in hotels around the world, including Christchurch, Japan, England, and Australia. After earning an IATA degree, I worked at Air New Zealand.
After taking some time off to focus on my family, I later returned to Hurunui Tourism, where I helped develop the region. I served on the North Canterbury Wine Growers board before moving to Kaikōura, where I currently sit on the Kaikōura Information and Tourism Board.
Passion for Regenerative Tourism
I’m passionate about tourism and the ways we can give back. Regenerative tourism is gaining traction, and Moana Mark’s vision resonates with both Kaikōura and New Zealand as a whole. The team at Moana Mark is dedicated to preserving our marine life and ensuring its future.
As part of this movement, we are excited to be involved and contribute to the ongoing conservation efforts. The work they’re doing is crucial for protecting marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable tourism practices, and I’m proud to support this journey.
Lisa Bond
Destination Manager – Destination Kaikōura
I have worked in tourism for 28 years, spending 26 of those at Whale Watch Kaikōura in various roles, including guide, skipper, and in communications, marketing, and sales. I’m now the Destination Manager at Destination Kaikōura. My experience has given me a deep understanding of the industry and the importance of sustainable practices in tourism.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
I recently completed the Kaikōura Destination Management Plan, which emphasises sustainable tourism and marine conservation. Moana Mark aligns perfectly with these goals, particularly given Kaikōura’s importance as a marine hotspot.
I see immense value in this work and was eager to offer my support when the opportunity arose to contribute to Moana Mark’s vision. This initiative plays a crucial role in safeguarding marine ecosystems while promoting responsible tourism practices, and I’m excited to be involved.
Louise Frend
Owner – Unique Stays
I have enjoyed a 30-year career in the tourism industry across New Zealand, Australia, the UK/Europe, and Fiji. Based in Hawke’s Bay, I have experience in business operations, marketing, inbound sales representation, strategic planning, product development, and PR & Media.
My long tenure in tourism has honed my instincts for the industry, and my time as an RTO has deepened my passion for destination management and expanded my experience working with Central and Local Government.
Enhancing International Tourism with Purpose
I currently run an international tourism marketing and representation business, helping boutique accommodation and experiences in New Zealand become ‘internationally ready’ while growing awareness of their products and experiences.
I’m dedicated to supporting Moana Mark as it launches an accreditation program that New Zealand and the world are ready for. With a focus on the environment, research, citizen science, and sustainability for our vulnerable oceans and marine life, I’m excited by Moana Mark’s vision and passion. I will do everything I can to assist the organisation during this time of evolution and change.
Gavin Oliver
Managing Director – EcoZip Adventures
I began my journey in New Zealand’s tourism industry in 2008 by founding a small-group touring company. My vision was to offer guests an authentic experience, allowing them to connect with New Zealand through highly interactive, personalised tours. In 2012, I co-founded EcoZip Adventures, a business model focused on Commercial Conservation, blending profit with purpose. Today, EcoZip is a multi-award-winning company with locations on both the North and South Islands. Our mission remains unchanged: to help guests form a deeper, more meaningful connection with New Zealand.
Creating Meaningful Connections Through Tourism
The preservation of Aotearoa New Zealand’s marine ecosystems and biodiversity is a cause I hold deeply. The world’s oceans are often seen as a barometer for the health of our planet, making their protection even more urgent.
Moana Mark plays a vital role in connecting tourism businesses, visitors, and the science community. By fostering collaboration, it creates meaningful, long-term benefits for our oceans and the species that depend on them. As a board member, I am honoured to support Moana Mark’s efforts to safeguard our oceans and ensure their protection for future generations.
Tim Blake
CEO – Kaikoura Wilderness Experience / Puhi Peaks Station
I have worked across a wide range of sectors, including a period as Commercial and Marketing Manager for Lyttelton Port Company, which gave me valuable insights into marine tourism and the work Black Cat Cruises did around Hector’s dolphins. I’ve also had the opportunity to work and travel internationally, enjoying diverse tourism experiences. Now, as CEO of Kaikoura Wilderness Experience and Puhi Peaks Station, I’ve built close relationships with Destination/Information Kaikoura, assisting them with strategic planning for the community’s future.
Promoting Kaikōura’s Sustainability for the Future
I believe that research is crucial for understanding and protecting our natural resources. In the Kaikōura region, we are committed to preserving our taonga and ensuring the sustainability of the region for future generations. Moana Mark has the potential to play a key role in research funding and programs across Kaikōura, contributing to both conservation and economic development.
I see great opportunities for Moana Mark to extend its influence beyond Kaikōura, and I’m eager to bring my experience and networks to support its efforts in protecting the region’s marine environments.
Tania Ross
Marketing Director – South Pacific Helicopters and Wings Over Whales
Almost three years ago, I started working with South Pacific Helicopters and Wings Over Whales, marking the beginning of my journey into the tourism industry. It has been an incredible experience, and I’ve discovered a true passion for what I do.
I’m grateful to be part of an industry that connects people to the natural beauty of New Zealand, and I enjoy contributing to the tourism sector here in Kaikōura.
Championing the Natural Wonders of Kaikōura through Tourism
I’ve lived in beautiful Kaikōura for 15 years, which truly feels like home. I have two wonderful children, Ashton (10) and Mikayla (8), and we love spending time outdoors, exploring the coastline and enjoying the views from the mountains.
Being part of the Moana Mark board allows me to contribute to the protection of Kaikōura’s natural environment. I’m especially enthusiastic about the goals of Moana Mark and love how South Pacific Helicopters and Wings Over Whales support these ideals. It’s rewarding to be part of such an impactful initiative.