Mel McColgan - Tasman Bay Guardians

Mel McColgan

Wai Connection | WBC

Mel has 13 years of experience with the delivery of Whitebait Connection freshwater education in Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough with schools, community groups, and the general public. In 2006, Mel took over the coordinator role with continued delivery under the banner “Wai Māori Streamcare,” a collaboration with local Iwi. Tangata Whenua acknowledged the need to ensure the science was received with cultural values and principles of kaitiakitanga entwined. Mel brings her passion for all things water and a strong sense of responsibility in working towards the safeguarding of our natural freshwater resources for future generations. Mel has qualifications in conservation, having completed the DoC Trainee Ranger Programme, Environmental Science, and Iwi Environmental Management (TWOA). Mel has also gained solid qualifications in communications and te reo Māori Level 3. Mel acknowledges the support of brilliant mentors and Whitebait Connection training/wananga over the years.

Our Board

Stew

Stew Robertson

Trust Chairperson and Science Advisor
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Team - Emma-Newcombe-2

Emma Newcombe

Trustee and Science Advisor
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Team-Glenis-Paul

Glenis Paul

Trustee
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Pete Carmichael

Peter Carmichael

Trustee
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Vicki Karetai - Tasman Bay Guardians

Vicki Karetai

Trustee / Events and Flora Project Community Coordinator
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Raelene Mason - Tasman Bay Guardians

Raelene Mason

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Our Team

Jude

Jude Heath

General Manager Tasman Bay Guardians
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Rosalie Bennett - Tasman Bay Guardians

Rosalie Bennett

Wai Connection Regional Coordinator
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Team - Thalassa Kawachi

Thalassa Kawachi

Love Rimurimu and EMR Coordinator and Educator
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Willow Milligan - Tasman Bay Guardians

Willow Milligan

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Vicki Smith

Wai Connector Event Team
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Te Puoho Stephens - Tasman Bay Guardians

Te Puoho Stephens

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Rick Field - Tasman Bay Guardians

Rick Field

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Syd Eru

Syd Eru

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Carolyn Gray

Caz Gray

Wai Connection Connector
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Scotty Keen - Tasman Bay Guardians

Scotty Keen

Trustee and Nelson/Tasman EMR, WBC and Wai Connection Co-ordinator
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Cab Chapman

Cab Chapman

Admin and Accounts
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Vicki Karetai - Tasman Bay Guardians

Vicki Karetai

Trustee / Events and Flora Project Community Coordinator
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Elliot Easton - Tasman Bay Guardians

Elliot Easton

Wai Connection Coordinator
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Baru Gabzdylova - Tasman Bay Guardians

Baru Gabzdylova

EMR educator
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Monique Patterson

Monique Patterson

Wai Connection Coordinator
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Raelene Mason - Tasman Bay Guardians

Raelene Mason

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Kate Radloff - Tasman Bay Guardians

Kate Radloff

Wai Connection Coordinator
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Kiara Duke-Love - Tasman Bay Guardians

Kiara Duke-Love

Wai Connection Catchment Connector
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Get Involved

Join us in making a difference!

Whether you’re passionate about marine and freshwater ecosystems or simply want to give back, there are many ways to get involved. Volunteer with us, donate to support our initiatives, become a member to stay informed or sponsor a program to make a lasting impact. Share the positive news of our efforts with your friends and whānau or participate as a citizen-scientist and help us inspire more people to join our cause. Together, we can create thriving, healthy environments for future generations. Your support matters! 

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