Hayden Porter
What do you do? I am a Tourism and Hospitality consultant and professional director for a number of Tourism based businesses in New Zealand and the Pacific.
What value do you bring to the Destination? More than 30 years’ experience in a wide variety of Tourism and hospitality-based businesses. The majority of which has been in CEO, General Management, and Director roles in hotels, destination management, hospitality venues and major events. I am a founding Director of Taupo Moana Group Holdings (a Tuwharetoa owned business) almost 10 years ago that now have a number of Tourism investments in the Taupo region, collectively one of the largest employers in Tourism in the Taupo region and continue to look for significant new opportunities in the region.
What do you love about Taupō? I love that Taupo has so much to do for the active person, there is really something here for everyone. The lake, the rivers, bike tracks, amazing walks and natural beauty of the region are a major drawcard. There is also high-quality hospitality options and a strong sense of Māori culture, as well as more slow paced things to do as well. I love the water so boating and fishing are passions of mine that thrive here.
Sandra Greenslade
What do you do? District Councillor - Tūrangi-Tongariro ward
What are your specialist areas? Economic & Business (associate).
Nathan Farmer
What do you do? Nathan is an insights and strategy specialist and a Partner at One Picture Group. With more than 20 years’ research experience, he brings a deep understanding of the tourism sector—both domestically and across international inbound travel. He has worked closely with RTOs, airports and central government, providing visitor-led perspectives that inform market development, destination strategy and brand storytelling.
What value do you bring to the destination? Nathan’s focus is on translating visitor insights into strategies that drive sustainable growth. His experience across industry and government helps ensure Taupō is positioned strongly in both national and international contexts.
What do you love about Taupō? Living locally, Nathan is inspired by the region’s natural beauty, cultural richness and strong sense of community. “Whether I’m digging into visitor trends or simply biking, running or swimming in this epic environment, Taupō never fails to make me feel alive—and I feel privileged to contribute to its sustainable future.”
Victoria Carter ONZM
What do you do? A creative, experienced, and values-driven director with a strong track record across public and private companies, crown entities, trusts, and major charitable organisations. Victoria brings deep expertise in strategy, customer growth, sustainability, and governance. She was made a Fellow of the Institute of Directors in 2014 and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Victoria founded Cityhop - NZ’s first car share company; led the revival of the Auckland Arts Festival, and has deep tourism experience having owned a CBD hotel and been on the board of JUCY.
What do you love about Taupō? so many happy holiday memories all around the Lake, and more to make!
Michele Teague
What do you do? An experienced director across public, private, and not-for-profit boards, with expertise in Audit, Risk, and Remuneration committees. A member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, with a strong corporate background in NZ and Australia. Brings deep knowledge of customer strategy, brand development, and digital to help businesses become more customer centric.
What do you love about Taupō? It’s like the beating heart of the North Island. The scale of the lake, the beauty of the whenua.
