Advisory Team
Meet the team behind the scenes of Moana Mark
We’re fortunate to have experts in a variety of fields who are able to support our mission and vision. Thanks to our advisory team, we can continue to connect individuals and tourism businesses directly with vital marine research projects across Aotearoa.
Chris Sturgeon
Director of Hapuku Kitchen, Deputy Chair of Destination Kaikōura & Programme Lead at Kaikōura 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.”
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“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.”
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“It is an honour 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.”
Gisela Purcell
Tourism Industry Aotearoa Sustainability Advocate
“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.”
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“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.”
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“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 Tau Ihu.”
Tim Blake
CEO of 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 Kaikōura, assisting them with strategic planning for the community’s future.”
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“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 programmes across Kaikōura, contributing to both conservation and economic development.”
Krissy Griggs
Visitor Markets Manager at 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.”
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“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.”
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“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.”
Louise Frend
Owner of 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.”
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“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.”
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“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.”
The oceans are in peril with climate change, pollution, and overfishing pushing marine life to the edge. Vital research is needed to protect our most vulnerable species.
Our mission is to connect individuals and businesses directly with marine research projects in Aotearoa New Zealand. With your support, we can make a difference.
Our Mission
Our Premier Partners
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![A guest stands on a Tree House balcony at Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses]()
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
“It was a no brainer for us to support this fantastic initiative. Not only is sustainability at the core of our operations, but supporting the marine wildlife that brings us our guests is just the right thing to do.”
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![A Wings Over Whales plane flies over the Kaikoura coastline]()
Wings Over Whales & South Pacific Helicopters
“With both companies benefiting greatly from our local environment, knowing we are partners and supporting a not-for-profit organisation makes us very proud as business owners.”
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![Two people on a zipline with epic Kaikoura views in the background]()
EcoZip Adventures
“By collaborating with Moana Mark, we can help direct resources toward critical marine science, while strengthening a tourism model that genuinely gives back to the environments that sustain it.”
Ready to support?
Whether you're an individual wanting to give back, or a business ready to lead in sustainable tourism, there's a way to make your mark.
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