My wife Fiona and I moved to Kaikōura 16 years ago to establish an artisan business and residential cooking school, named Hapuku Kitchen. During that process we met Tony Wilson and agreed together to take on Hapuku Lodge & Tree houses as General Manager & Executive Chef which has now developed into one of NZ’s leading Luxury Lodges.

I have a real passion for Kaikōura and have the privilege of traveling internationally promoting Hapuku Lodge and as a direct result also promoting Kaikōura. I firmly believe to bring tourists into any business you must first sell them on the local community, its people, its culture together with the environment before considering any individual property or business. This approach was so beneficial immediately after the 2016 Earthquake as we went back out to the country & the world to convince the tourism industry to continue to support us.

I am delighted to work alongside other passionate members of the board and working to promote our small part of paradise.

I have been involved in tourism in Kaikoura for 25+ years in the role of co-owner of Encounter Kaikoura, which is more commonly known as Dolphin Encounter.  The business comprises two eco tours, Dolphin Encounter and Albatross Encounter, a beachfront café and gift store, and a small meeting venue. It has been an inspiration over the years to see Kaikoura mature as a tourism destination in its own right and to achieve success on so many levels.  Our region now has a diverse local product offering while retaining our uniqueness as a beautiful coastal town with an amazing and diverse natural environment. It is a privilege to have a vibrant business as well as a superb lifestyle in Kaikoura. It really is the best of both worlds!  I have been on the Board of Destination Kaikoura, formerly known as Kaikoura Information and Tourism Inc, for many years.  I enjoy being able to offer support and share my knowledge with the wider tourism sector on all aspects of business management.

Hi my name is Joanne Murray and with Brad we arrived in Kaikōura 12 years ago to start a new adventure and have loved every minute of our time, most of all in the morning having coffee looking out to the sea. (amazing)

My background is in Hospitality and Retail.  I worked for Michael Hill as a manager for 10 years all over NZ and learned so much about business through this company, which has set me up very well for our business and being able to look at other businesses with an open mind.

I am looking forward to working with the other board members to growing Kaikoura even more and making it a place for all travellers to never forget their time in our unique town

Studied Adventure Tourism at the Outdoor Pursuit Centre of NZ (OPC) 1994.
Heavily involved with Adventure Tourism from then on – overseas and in NZ. Moved to Kaikōura in 1998 to establish “Kaikōura Kayaks” which has grown significantly over the past 20 years and won numerous awards including number 1# Activity in Kaikōura on TripAdvisor. KITI member since 1999 and strong supporter of Destination Kaikōura.

Instrumental in spearheading a tourism movement in the aftermath of the November 2016 Earthquake – including the “Hope Springs” discovery of the Kaikōura Peninsula. Actively promoting Kaikōura Tourism and passionate about our little seaside town. Involved in instigating the recent viral video of “Seal slapping Octopus on kayakers face” which has the spotlight on Kaikōura again globally!

Growing up in Marlborough, Kaikōura has always felt like an extended playground. Whether this was weekends away with family, adventure racing, or competing in horse events, I’ve always been inspired by the undeniable potential of this remarkable region. I am passionate about connecting people who share a love for the outdoors, food, and new experiences, while fostering curiosity for everything Kaikōura has to offer. 

There’s no denying I have a strong sense of adventure. My proudest moments are often shaped by a mix of challenge and reward, such as completing the 2017 GODZone Adventure Race. I believe how we navigate the unknown speaks to our mindset and resilience. This philosophy fuels my drive to support the members and help Kaikōura flourish in tourism, enhancing the region's allure.

I am equally committed to inspiring the next generation of tourism professionals, showing them how this resilient industry enriches both locals and visitors alike. It’s vital we nurture fresh talent and continue creating a vibrant, prosperous future for Kaikōura, embracing its potential while staying true to its roots.

I feel incredibly privileged to join the Kaikōura Information & Tourism Inc., on behalf of EcoZip Adventures, and contribute towards shaping the future of this unique destination. Our future is bright, and it is an honour to be a part of the next chapter! 

I have been a council representative on the KITI board for 7 years. I own and operate Bendamere House B&B so I enjoy the role I have as tourism is my main interest. KITI and Destination Kaikōura have played a huge part in the promotion both domestically and internationally of our beautiful town and I feel there are exciting and prosperous times ahead.

My role as Deputy Mayor also brings an integral link between Kaikōura District Council and KITI as council is our main funder for Destination Kaikōura and taking our town to the world. I encourage all Kaikōura businesses whether Retail, Activities or Accommodation to support the pivotal role we take in building our town and making your business grow.