Deb Shannon - Chair​

Deb has lived in Otaki for the last 20 yrs and is passionate about Ōtaki, with what it has to offer, being involved and supporting local business/community.

Having owned and operated a beauty therapy business for 33yrs, the last 6yrs in Ōtaki and prior to that in Lampton Quay Wellington from sole operator to managing a team. Deb can offer business experience, knowledge and skills and is keen to see ŌTHBA grow and succeed.

Trish Gee - Treasurer​

Ōtaki born and bred local who has come back to her roots. Trish is a Chartered Accountant, registered member of CAANZ/NZICA and has over 40 years’ experience working with small, medium and some larger organisations. In the role of Treasurer, she is our financial “guru”, bringing her knowledge and skill sets to the Committee. She is looking forward to working with the Committee and providing support and assistance with local businesses in Ōtaki and Te Horo.

Tracey Savage - Secretary

​​Born and bred on the Kāpiti Coast - Tracey returned to her roots and is now a Co-Director for Kelly and Co Real Estate in Ōtaki. After working abroad and in NZ across many disciplines, including broadcasting, filmmaking, arts, education, events, and marketing, it was Ōtaki that fit the bill to bring up her young daughter. 'It's the best place in the world for kids, and such a great community. To be able to contribute to, connect with and support local businesses is a privilege. I'm really excited about the connection opportunities that we plan to bring via ŌTHBA. We've got a strong and enthusiastic team.'

Claire Roper - Deputy Chair

Claire moved to Ōtakii in 1983, and went to ŌtakiPrimary, then Ōtaki College. She lived overseas for ten years, in 2019 she moved back with her young family. She currently runs the Ōtaki Market and Ōtaki Kids Market.

Claire has a passion for Ōtaki and is looking forward to using her skills in digital marketing and stakeholder management to help the committee create something special.

Teresa Grigg - Committee Member

As Co-Director of Anam Cara Gardens, I’ve built a successful venue and accommodation business, now expanding into immersive wellbeing experiences. I focus on marketing, strategic planning, and designing nature-based offerings that help people reset, lead, and live well.

I’m a creative thinker with commercial acumen, known for strong relationships, systems thinking, and action.

Mikey Hurman - Committee Member

Mikey grew up in Te Horo, Waikanae, Paraparaumu, Raumati, Weliington, Sydney, Taunton (UK) Bristol (UK) Lower Hutt but his favourite place to live so far is Ōtaki. He loves this part of the Kāpiti coast, so much so that he and his wife decided to bring up their three boys here. They own a busy tattoo studio in town and have enjoyed every moment living and working in Ōtaki "We love how friendly and accomodating everyone is, all the time". Mikey is obsessed with learning new things and seeing others succeed. This opportunity will help him grow wiser whilst helping our local community. So it's a win win. As a valued committee member he is excited to work together with this amazing group and offer his skills and knowledge in the following areas.

Leon Kingi - Committee Member

After completing my Ōtaki College years I joined the NZ Army. I became a Systems Engineer and served for 25 years, retiring in 2021. In 2016 my wife and I purchased Black & Co Leather Belts Ltd, then Sheepskin Sales Ltd and commercial retail property on SH1 in 2021, and completed a small subdivision of residential property this year.

I grew here, settled my family back here, now have grandchildren here, and plan to be buried here. All that to say I am heavily invested in Ōtaki and want to help our town to thrive for generations to come.