This website is managed by Destination Kaikōura, the Regional Tourism Organisation for Kaikōura. Formed in April 2014, Kaikōura became New Zealand’s 30th Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO).
Kaikōura is the smallest RTO in New Zealand and is responsible for promoting Kaikōura domestically and internationally.
Lisa Bond - Destination Manager
Lisa is a true Kaikōura local who has close to 30 years of experience in the Tourism Industry. 26 years were spent working for Whale Watch Kaikōura, during that time working her way through various roles such as a tour host, skipper, communications, and marketing & sales.
Since August 2021 Lisa has been working for Destination Kaikōura as the Destination Manager where she manages the RTO (Regional Tourism Organisation).
Lisa love for her community shines through sitting with the various committees and trusts in Kaikōura that she sits on. She is also a third term District Councillor, providing a tourism lens when discussions and decisions are being made.
Relationships with all stakeholders are hugely important to Lisa, whether that be at a local, regional, nation or international level, every relationship carries importance. Always available for a chat, please reach should you wish to meet up or jump on a call.
Geraldine Morisse - Marketing & Tourism Coordinator
Geraldine is our favourite Frenchie with more than 17 years experience in the Tourism Industry, including the last 13 years in New Zealand, country she now calls home.
Over her career, Geraldine has worked in various roles:
- 4 years in Groups & Events in Paris for the Domestic market mainly.
- Approx. 9 years in Inbound in Auckland (FITs, Group and Contracting/Product) working with different levels of the distribution channels and different markets (mainly UK, Europe, North America, Japan and South East Asia).
- 1.5 years in Sales & Marketing for a Hotel in Queenstown, she can relate to the challenges operators can be going through and understand what is required operationally.
- 2 years in a similar role in another RTO (Development West Coast)
Geraldine's area of expertise is Trade.
She enjoys building and nurturing meaningful relationships with different ranges of stakeholders, sharing her knowledge and helping others.
Geraldine started with Destination Kaikōura mid June 2023 and works part time (20 hours /week). She lives in Blenheim but comes to Kaikōura on a regular basis so don't hesitate to reach out to meet or brainstorm ideas.
Taylor Tian - China market
Originally from mainland China, Taylor embarked on a life-changing journey with his family to New Zealand in 2015.
His first steps in the Tourism industry commenced with establishing and spearheading the Chinese department for a prominent tourism operator based in Marlborough.
The onset of the pandemic presented an opportunity to embark on a new chapter as an independent advisor specializing in the Chinese tourism market, extending his expertise to various regions across the South Island.
Collaborating with neighbouring regions such as Hurunui and the West Coast amplifies our collective impact and strengthens our outreach efforts as the Chinese tourism market gradually rebounds.
Taylor is committed to assisting the region navigate the dynamic landscape of the Chinese tourism industry, fostering awareness among visitors, and facilitating partnerships with key industry stakeholders.
Taylor started his role with Destination Kaikōura early April 2024 and works part time. He lives in Blenheim but will come to Kaikōura regularly.
Josie Uren - Finance Administrator
Works on Wednesday and Friday mornings.
For any enquiries about the website, marketing or accounts please email us at [email protected] .