Meet our service business owners

Ngamoe Roping Ltd.

(Mobile saddle and tack repair services)

Ngamoe Ruatorea, NEW ZEALAND

Leeann Rangiuaia-Reedy

Kia ora, my name is Leeann Rangiuaia-Reedy, and I am the proud owner of Ngamoe Roping Ltd. Based in Ngamoe Ruatorea, where I was born and raised, I offer mobile saddle repairs and maintenance, including rework on horse tack.

Growing up in our close-knit community, I was inspired by the relationships my parents built over the years within the horse & Farming community. My father was a skilled horse breaker, and his ability to connect with horses left a lasting impression on me. While I am self-taught in leather crafting and saddle care, I am fortunate to have skilled leather craftsmen by my side, mentoring me as I continue to refine my craft.

Through years of dedication and learning, I’ve built a business that provides reliable and convenient saddle services to the hardworking farmers and horse owners in our community. As a wife, mother, and passionate member of Ngamoe Ruatorea, I am proud to carry on a legacy of care, connection, and craftsmanship.

Jim Reedy is an integral part of Ngamoe Roping Ltd, specializing in crafting new leather horse tack and custom leather gear. With over 25 years of experience in forestry, operating large machinery, Jim has transitioned into a role that allows him to pursue a lifelong passion for leatherwork.

His attention to detail and dedication to quality ensure that every piece he creates meets the needs of our customers and their horses. Jim’s expertise brings an added layer of excellence to our business, supporting our mission to provide reliable and high-quality saddle and tack services to the community.

I

Kora Concrete Solutions

(Concrete landscaping products and services)

Tauranga, NEW ZEALAND

Hemi Stewart

Ko Otawa, ko Maungatautari ngā Maunga

Ko Waitaha, Ko Ngāti Hauā ngā Iwi

Ko Ngāti Maraki, Ko Ngāti Werewere ngā Hapū

Ko Hei, ko Rukumoana, ko Tapu te ranga ngā Marae

Ko Hēmi Stewart ahau.

Tihei Mauriora!

I was born and raised in Lower Hutt, Wellington where I met my lovely partner Marcia 14 years ago. We are a blended whanau with 7 tamariki combined and 3 mokopuna.

I learnt to build at a young age under the tutelage of my father, while helping him to build our Marae Tapu Te Ranga in Island Bay, Wellington. I continued on as a carpenter/ trade mentor for 25 years where I gained experience in all aspects of building on residential and commercial projects nationwide.

Last year my partner and I took a year off work to study a diploma of te reo Māori (TTP) at Waikato University in Tauranga Moana. I also created several sculptural artworks part time, which featured in exhibitions around Aotearoa. The course inspired us both to immerse ourselves fully into “Te Āo Māori”. We needed to refocus and embrace new opportunities.

We were both ready for a change. We love our new environment, friends and connecting with my whenua. So, we decided to stay and create a new future for our whanau here in Tauranga Moana. I found a way to combine my passion, skill set and experience into a business.

Through research, trial and error, I’ve developed a range of original and bespoke concrete products with a distinct Māori influence for the landscaping industry. I am the Designer/ Operations Manager, while my partner will be responsible for the administration.

Thank you Tolaga Evergreen Business Programme for accepting us as recipients and supporting our journey to establishing a successful business enterprise in the service of our community, Iwi, Hapū and Whanau.

Ngā mihi nunui ki a koutou, Mauriora.

Marcia Waikato

Ko Puhangatohora ko Tautoro ngā maunga.

Ko Taheke, ko Tautoro ngā awa.

Ko Ngatokimatawhaorua te waka.

Ko Taheke, ko Mahuhukiterangi ngā marae.

Ko Ngati Pakau, ko Te Mahurehure, ko Ngati Hine, ko Ngati Moerewa ngā hapū.

Ko Ngāpuhi te iwi.

Ko Rahiri te tangata.

Ko Marcia ahau.

Tihei mauriora.

I am writing to offer my full support for the exciting new landscaping venture that my partner, Hemi Stewart, and I are currently working on. With a strong foundation of administrative skills, a passion for community development, and years of experience in leadership roles, I am confident that we will build a successful, sustainable business.

Born in Pukekohe, raised in Te Awakairangi (Lower Hutt), and now residing in Tauranga Moana, my professional experience has equipped me with the necessary skills to drive growth, manage finances, and ensure smooth operations. As the Secretary of the NZEI Hutt Valley Branch, Treasurer of Tapu te Ranga Maori Wardens, and a member of the Naenae Intermediate School Board of Trustees for 10 years, I have honed my ability to coordinate, manage budgets, and lead teams effectively.

In addition, my 30+ years of experience in teaching has further reinforced my organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to collaborate with outside parties. I have been responsible for managing projects, liaising with parents and staff, and ensuring that goals are met within specified timelines. These experiences have given me the confidence and capability to tackle the administrative demands of any business with competence and a focus on delivering results.

I am incredibly excited to work alongside Hemi as we establish a business that not only meets the landscaping needs of our community but also reflects our shared values of hard work, integrity, and excellence. I am eager to bring my experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to this new chapter, and I look forward to the growth and success that lies ahead.

I

Manaaki Taiao Ltd

(Landscape & Environmental Planting & Maintenance Services,  Tauranga Moana)

Tauranga, NEW ZEALAND

Samer Souaihi

Kia ora, As-salaam alaykum

My name is Samer.

My partner and I are grateful to have been selected as a recipient of the Tolaga Bay business programme.

I am passionate about working in the environmental space as someone who loves the outdoors and not shy of hard work. Since arriving in Aotearoa, I have worked in the environmental space, building my skills and qualifications.

Whilst my partner has vast business experience in the taiao space, I am a first time business owner therefore excited to learn new knowledge and skills as part of the programme.

My role will be as the Operations Manager, responsible for the execution of all physical works carried out on the ground, and responsible for building and managing a small (but professional, reliable and hard working) operational team.

My partners role will be as the Office Manager, responsible for managing our business systems and administration.

Thank you Tolaga Evergreen Fund for the opportunity. I look forward to learning the knowledge and skills that will support my business success.

Monique Nee Nee

Tēna koe

Ko Mauao me Matawhaura oku maunga

Ko Takitimu me Te Arawa oku waka

Ko Te Awanui te moana

Ko Ngāti Ranginui me Ngāti Pikiao oku Iwi

Ko Wairoa me Waitaha oku awa

Ko Pirirākau me Te Takina oku Marae

Ko Nicholas me Kingi oku whanau

Ko Monique toku ingoa

My partner and I are so grateful to be part of the Tolaga Bay programme which supports the genuine capacity and capability building of Māori & Pasifika businesses in Aotearoa.

Having built a career within the landscape industry, my partner and I am super excited to drive the kaupapa and success of Manaaki Taiao together.

I am known for ‘liking plants more than I like people’ and having a home ‘jungle’ rather than a home ‘garden’.

I love designing tropical home sanctuaries filled with edible kai, and restoring original native footprints in natural environmental spaces and public reserves.

I am committed to the worlds natural environment and acknowledge the significant importance of indigenous peoples connection to their whenua (land) and wai (water) as its Kaitiaki. With this passion, my knowledge, skills and experience, I am 100% confident that my tāne and I will create many opportunities for other Kaitiaki to learn and grow from within.

BERO Lawn Services & Property Maintenance

Porirua, Wellington, NEW ZEALAND

Peni Patelesio & Rowena Lopesi

Hi, I’m Peni, but most people know me as Ben. I’m a qualified plasterer, painter, and tiler based in Porirua, Wellington. I recently graduated and am focused on expanding and growing my maintenance business. A year ago, I started a lawn mowing business, and now I’m working on growing it to include my other trades, offering a wider range of services for residential properties.

My partner, Rowena, and I are proud Samoans. Rowena is an incredible support in our business ventures. She has a bachelor’s degree in Applied Business Management and over 20 years of work experience. Her skills and knowledge in business and finance are a huge asset, helping us plan and run things effectively. Together, we’re building a trusted and professional business that’s all about serving our community.

MPW Contractors

(Pool installation / decorative concrete)

Gisborne, NEW ZEALAND

Michael Watterson

Father of 3, Partner, Construction Manager

I’m Michael Peter Watterson, born in Hawke’s Bay and raised in Western Australia. Growing up with my dad and five siblings, I learned the value of hard work and responsibility early on. From a young age, I was drawn to construction and hands-on work, developing skills in renovations, earthworks, machinery operation, and architectural design.

After 16 years in the industry, I’ve built my career managing teams of 4–5 people on diverse projects, focusing on creating quality, lasting structures. Leadership became a natural extension of my passion for the craft, and I take pride in mentoring others while delivering projects that stand the test of time.

Now living in Gisborne with my partner and three sons, I’m focused on building a life that honors my past and shapes the future. Returning to New Zealand has brought a new sense of purpose — not just for my work, but for creating a legacy my children can be proud of. The journey continues, and every day, I strive to build not just with my hands, but with my heart.

Pikitanga Pearl Wallace Karauria

Mother, Partner, Sister

I’m Pikitanga Pearl Wallace Karauria, born in Napier and raised in Gisborne from the age of 8. Growing up, I was always close to my grandmother, who became my guardian when I was just 5. Along with my 8 siblings, I was raised by her, and being one of the youngest, I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to help care for my brothers and sisters. That’s how I learned early on what it means to be a protector and to lead with love.

Now, at 21, I’m a mother to a beautiful son, and I’m grateful to share my life with my partner. We’re building our own little family, but I never forget the lessons my grandmother taught me. Her strength and wisdom shaped who I am today. My journey is all about balancing my family, community, and the traditions that have always been a part of me.

I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardships, but about growing through them. It’s about carrying the stories of my ancestors and making sure the next generation knows where we come from. I’m proud of my roots, and I’m committed to preserving them while creating a future where my son can thrive.

Eagles View Painting

(Residential / Commercial Painting)

Tauranga, NEW ZEALAND

Jordan Andrews

Kia ora,

My name is Jordan Andrews. I am a proud father to three babies—one human and two fur ones. I come from Māori and Irish descent, having grown up in Rotorua and Te Puke. With nearly 10 years of experience as a painter, I have worked for three painting companies, two of which are leading in the industry and have significantly shaped my skills and expertise. My wife and I decided to leave our jobs to serve our community by providing affordable and competitive painting services to homeowners and renters. My wife, Ana, brings seven years of administrative experience and extensive customer service skills to our business.

Ana Andrews

Malo ni and Malo e lelei,

I am Ana Andrews. I was born in Nae Nae, Wellington, and spent the first part of my childhood there before my family moved to Birkenhead, North Shore (Auckland). My heart has always been about serving, I grew up in a family where serving was a massive part of our lives whether it be making cups of tea with tin biscuits and butter for family visiting, or serving customers at the Warehouse. Whatever it was, it was part of me. Now I get the opportunity to serve my community and to serve Eagles View Painting, lead by wonderful husband, in a different but still meaningful way.

Jackson Grant Carpentry

(Carpentry / Renovation / Eco cabins)

Tolaga Bay, NEW ZEALAND

Jackson Grant


I was born in Wairoa raised in Gisborne and Hawkes Bay with roots in Tokomaru Bay and Waipiro Bay. Keen fisherman and surfer, I am currently doing carpentry insurance work ripping out water logged wash houses, put in new sinks toilets, and showers. I also make portable buildings or cabins from the eco cabin to the traditional timber frame . These can be made on site or transported to your land or home. I have settled in Tolaga Bay for the last 6 years, a very close nit whanau community. I look forward to providing a diverse carpentry renovation business with other local wrap around services in Tairawhiti and surrounding areas.

Clippers Property Services

(Property Maintenance Services)

BAY OF PLENTY, NEW ZEALAND

Jack Shelford

I was born and raised in Papakura, with my grandfather’s family originally from Tikitiki. After years of working in different trades and roles my wife Fallon and I, decided to step out, combine our knowledge together and create a business where we are able to utilise the skills that we’ve obtained over the years. We offer all-round property maintenance services in the Bay of Plenty region.

Family and people are at the core of what we do. Giving people a little time to hear their story and put a smile on their face is important to me.

Fallon Shelford

I was born and raised in Gisborne, both my parents are of Ngati Porou descent with family connections scattered all throughout the East Coast. In our business we strive for excellence in all that we do and get satisfaction from serving others by doing “a job well done”.

Tairanui Administration| Bookkeeping and Administrative Services

EAST COAST, NEW ZEALAND

Hayley Waitoa

Ko Hikurangi te Maunga
Ko Waiapu te Awa
Ko Ngāti Porou te Iwi
Ko Hayley Waitoa tōku ingoa

Kia ora, I’m Hayley. I grew up in Tikitiki, and currently reside in Ruatoria, raising my 3 boys in our beautiful homelands of Te Tairāwhiti.

As an experienced office administrator, with a qualification in bookkeeping, I saw a need in rural areas for accessible and flexible admin and bookkeeping support. This led me to create Tairanui Administration. As a Virtual Assistant, my goal is to help Māori-owned rural businesses and organisations to reclaim valuable time and gain access to the services that support their growth and the people they serve.

I love helping rural businesses and organisations because I admire their dedication to their people and communities. I understand the unique needs and rewards that come with rural life, and with my experience, connection to Te Ao Māori and rural surroundings, I’m committed to delivering tailored administrative services that uphold whānau and community values.

Ngā mihi,

Hayley

CJ Milling | Portable Sawmill

EAST COAST, NEW ZEALAND

Clyde Hooper
Following in the footsteps of my tipuna (ancestors) I have maintained a strong spiritual connection to the land that I have worked on for the past fifty years. I have built sound working relationships within the farming fraternity and have extensive experience in all aspects of farming ranging from (but not limited to) stock control, fencing, earthmoving, building repairs and tree falling. As a kinesthetic learner my confidence as a portable sawmill operator is growing and I look forward to our future in this industry.

Julian Pardoe
I am a hard-working,  highly motivated individual with an eye for detail.  As a qualified Saw Doctor I have extensive experience in Solid Wood Processing.  As a recipient of a Diploma in Forestry Management, I have the technical and managerial skills to successfully operate our new business enterprise.  Entrepreneurship provides opportunity and inspiration for me to provide for my whanau.

Yard Rescue | Yard Services

TOLAGA BAY, EAST COAST

Harley Stender
Raised in South Auckland, with whakapapa (genealogy) links to Uawa - Tolaga Bay, I arrived here ten years ago as a sole parent of three small children. 

My whanau mean the world to me and I have worked hard to provide for them. 

My first business was a mobile fruit and veg delivery service.  Due to the high increase in food prices, I have now transitioned into a maintenance and yard services business, retaining many of my same customers. 

I love providing for my customers, whanau and community.

LC Solutions | Solar Power Installation

EAST COAST, NEW ZEALAND

Luke Cavit
I moved my family to Tolaga Bay in 2018 and proceeded to build us a forever home.  The prohibitive cost of putting in septic tanks, driveways, and fencing was extortionate and the obvious lack of tradesmen in our region prompted me to explore the feasibility of starting my own small business, providing off-grid utility solutions. 

This led to the birth of LC Solutions in January 2022 and solar power installation is my forte.  My name is Luke Cavit, I am the sole Director of LC Solutions

Izrael Aupouri Concreting

GISBORNE, EAST COAST

Izrael & Jade Aupouri
Raised in Gisborne, I (Izrael) was introduced to concrete at the age 15. My whakapapa(geneology) connects me to Te Tairawhiti/Ngati Porou, East Coast.

My passion is my family and my mahi(work).

Following in the footsteps of my papa(grandfather) and my uncles, I developed my career as a concreter.

Having been in the industry for 25 years, with the support and development of a business partnership with my wife Jade, we have taken our combined skillsets and experience to establish Izrael Aupouri Concreting for Residential and Industrial projects.

I am a perfectionist when it comes to any concrete projects I set my mind to and I have an absolute passion for my mahi and providing the customer quality of workmanship, that I am able to provide.

Elite Blasters | Water Blasting

WHANGAREI, NORTHLAND

Bjorn Watts and Amelia Herbert

Born and raised in Northland, Bjorn is a keen fisherman, diver and hunter gatherer. He has always been a provider for his whānau and after 12 years in the industry he wanted to go out on his own in order to live a more fulfilling life with his young children - he knew he had to make a choice that would allow him more freedom and time with his family while also providing and building a legacy they can benefit from in the future.

Creating Elite Blasters - an exterior cleaning business servicing Northland has been challenging and rewarding, but above all has been an amazing experience of learning and opportunity. We enjoy the way our business makes our community feel after they have received our services we and are passionate about providing the best quality work.

Entrepreneurship has given us the confidence and inspiration to push outside of our boundaries and to help others around us step into these spaces.

Clean with a Passion

TOLAGA BAY, EAST COAST

Shanon Kahukuraiti Albert

I grew up in a ‘mess’, and I applied myself to cleaning as a means to deal with trauma.   ‘Clean with a Passion’ has evolved from this.  My new business is driven by passion and the support of my beautiful partner and two beautiful children.   

I reside in Tolaga Bay, the first place on Earth to see the new Sun rise.  I operate a fully functional cleaning business.  Daily cleans, weekly cleans, depending on my client’s needs.

Focusing on residential homes - kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, all rooms.  My offer is to fully clean your inside home - scrub all floors, benches, dishes, stoves, appliances, mirrors, skirtings, vacuum, mopping.

I serve working families, elderly, disabled, Local shops, local marae, local schools, local kohanga.   I love serving my community and being my own boss. Mauri ora.

JP’s Onboard | Interior Plastering

GISBORNE, EAST COAST

Ko Jonathan Paea

Ko Titirangi ki Uawa te Maunga
Ko Uawanui a Ruamatua te Awa
Ko Tereanini te Waka
Ko Ruakapanga te Marae
Ko te Aitanga a Hauiti te Iwi

Being manufactured in the small town of Rangiora in Te Wai Pounamu, I moved with my parents to Turanganui a Kiwa in the 80’s. I have since then worked in diverse employment, to include silviculture, horticulture, biodiversity impact monitoring ranger, Eastland Port operator, independent timber merchant delivery driver and solid plastering.

Since learning the skill of interior plastering in Auckland in the 90’s, I have picked up the tools of the trade to help service the housing building industry. I enjoy working with clients to help achieve the desired interior aesthetics they are after with their renovations or newly built homes here in Te Tairawhiti.

Ko Jonathan Paea toku ingoa, I am the new Business Owner of JP’s Onboard.

The Projects NZ | House Hold Cleaning & Property Maintenance

OTEPOTI (DUNEDIN), SOUTHLAND

Matt Sainsbury

Growing up in a low-income household, I faced my fair share of challenges. Determined to make a difference, I founded a community-focused cleaning and property maintenance business with my wife, Holli.

I'm dedicated to improving my hometown by delivering budget-friendly, welcoming household cleaning and property maintenance services, extending valuable support to low-income families.

Through resilience and entrepreneurship, I'm proving that positive change is possible no matter where you started in life.

Holli Bash

I'm Holli Bash, I moved from the UK to New Zealand for a change. Initially, it was just travel, but I ended up staying for love! I have a background in elderly care and have always loved helping others.

In the midst of the uncertainty that the last few years have brought, we decided to start our business not only to secure our own future but also to lend a helping hand to those grappling with the financial and physical impacts of the cost of living crisis.

Our goal is to contribute positively, offering affordable, friendly services and support to those who need it. The local community has been really welcoming, allowing me to continue doing what I love.

Keelan Solutions | Farming Services

TOLAGA BAY, EAST COAST

Tama Keelan

A well-known hunter and gatherer of land and sea, Tama is very resourceful and highly motivated.

He has developed a sound work ethic and has connections to the right people and places that will support his grassroots enterprise.

He is highly experienced in all aspects of farming, fencer general duties, and residential home services.

He is ready to deliver at a competitive price.

Westcoast Roofing

Kelly and Gerrard Munro

Westcoast Roofing is a whānau owned and operated Roofing company. Hailing from the windy westcoast of the Hokianga, but are blessed to live on the beautiful Eastcoast. 

We are a young adventurous family with 4 small children, we have a passion for the moana, fishing and diving. 

Our shift to the far north is still fresh, as is the birth of our business.

Between both of us we knew we had the tools to grow a successful company. Kelly has always been highly driven and knew one day she wanted to own her own business. Having great ability to connect with people she knew she could step into the shoes of being a business owner and be a driving force of the company. Gerrard carries a wealth of knowledge in the roofing industry and after 10+ years working for a company and 5 years of contracting we thought it was time to take it to the next step and open our own company. Gerrard prides himself on his workmanship and ability to run his team. so between us we understood the great extent of what we could create.

Being business owners welcomes a whole knew life for us.

Financial freedom, time freedom but also being home in the far north and being able to provide a service to our own people and give back is super rewarding!