Our Premier Partners
Meet the businesses who are proudly supporting Moana Mark research projects
Committing to sustainable practices and marine conservation
When businesses donate $1,000 or more, they become a Moana Mark Premier Partner. Find out which businesses are giving back to the environment, and supporting sustainable initiatives.
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
Inaugural Partner
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses is Moana Mark's founding partner.
Their support helps fund three key projects: the Kaikōura Marine Research Laboratory, the Leopard Seal Protection Project, and the Sperm Whale Protection Project.
“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.”
General Manager, Emile van der Linde
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Hapuku Lodge is a luxury retreat set on a deer farm at the base of the Kaikōura Seaward Mountain Ranges. Just a kilometre from the coast, it gives guests access to the stunning marine environment that defines the region.
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Driven by a commitment to sustainability, Hapuku Lodge saw a natural fit with Moana Mark. “Our staff and guests love hearing about the research projects we’re funding. It creates a real buzz,” says General Manager Emile van der Linde.
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Owner Tony Wilson, deeply connected to Kaikōura, believes in protecting the marine ecosystems that support local biodiversity and tourism. With no research facility in the region, Hapuku helped change that, funding and building a marine office and laboratory to support scientific mahi.
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Hapuku Lodge contributes $10 for every room night to Moana Mark. In 2024–25, their contribution included:
Donating over $20,000, which supports sperm whale population monitoring, marine mammal science, and conservation.
Wings Over Whales & South Pacific Helicopters
Premier Partner since 2023
These family-owned Kaikōura businesses support the Sperm Whale Protection Project through donations linked to their whale-watching experiences.
“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.”
Owners Dan & Monique
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Family-run and based in Kaikōura, Wings Over Whales and South Pacific Helicopters are led by husband and wife team Dan and Monique. Their mission: showcase the region’s marine life while educating guests about its importance.
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With sustainability at their core, Dan and Monique saw Moana Mark as a natural partner. “Partnering up with Moana Mark means that we can not only operate and know that we are educating customers on Kaikouras’ unique and diverse marine life but also the importance of sustainable practices and marine conservation,” says Dan.
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$1 from every 30-minute whale watching seat (Wings Over Whales)
$10 from every whale watching flight (South Pacific Helicopters)
$50 per person for flights with onboard marine biologist Dr. Krista
Their ongoing support directly funds critical research into sperm whale populations in the region.
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Dan and Monique are excited to see what’s next from Moana Mark, and proud to play a part in protecting the marine environment that makes Kaikōura so unique.