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Business Support in Ōtorohanga

At Elevate, we aspire to be the cornerstone of business growth and economic vitality in the Ōtorohanga District. Our primary goal is to build a thriving business community by leveraging the unique attributes of our region.

Our Vision

A vibrant and connected Ōtorohanga community where Whānau and business thrive. We envision a district filled with opportunities, where every business, regardless of its size, has the potential to grow and contribute to the local economy.

Our Strategic Priorities

Gold Partners

Enabling businesses to thrive

Get in touch with us today 

Elevate provides a wide range of support to businesses across different sectors through networking opportunities, workshops and business breakfasts, building platforms for learning, networking and growth. Additionally, our team leads various economic development projects and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable growth within the district. We are committed to highlighting the opportunities that Ōtorohanga presents, making it an attractive destination for investment and business development.

Our Board Members

Marain Hurley

Chair

Marain has been the Chairperson of Elevate since being appointed as interim Chairperson in 2022.  Marain has commercial and rural experience in the business world where today, Marain and her husband Noel own and oversee their dairy farm operation in Ōtorohanga. Marain brings to the Board 15 years’ experience as National Sales and Marketing Manager, followed by the ownership/operations of her retail store Marayns in Ōtorohanga for 22 years.

Michelle Erikson

Treasurer

Katrina Christison

Council Representative

Carolyn Christian

Board Member

Born in Huntly Carolyn moved to Ōtorohanga when she was 6 months old. Carolyn is a director of Ōtorohanga Transport Limited Group and Waikato Thorougbred Racing. Alongside her family Carolyn supports the Ōtorohanga community in many ways, serving on sports committees and Boards and sponsoring groups and events.  Carolyn enjoys most sports and loves her time walking the family miniature schnauzer.

Grant Matthews

Board Member

Born and bred in Ohaupo, Grant has lived in the Ōtorohanga District for the last 17 years and has worked in Ōtorohanga since purchasing Paper Plus in 2020.  Grant has previously worked as a Regional Sales Manager for multinational companies servicing predominantly the hardware industry throughout the upper north island. Prior to this Grant owned and operated Guthrie Bowron Te Awamutu. Grant really enjoys being on the board of Elevate and being able to give back to the local community and businesses.

Pat Edwards

Board Member

Pat arrived in the Ōtorohanga District in 2004 purchasing a farm at Korokonui and in 2013 sold that farm and purchased a 300ha dairy farm at Maihiihi with his son and his family. Pat was brought up in Auckland and left 45 years ago to go farming.  He is a director of Ovation Farms Limited and a member of Ōtorohanga Lions. Pat really enjoys supporting young people to achieve their dreams and goals in the community and I his spare time enjoys fishing and bike riding 

Jacque Purdy

Board Member

Jacque made the move from Auckland to Ōtorohanga six years ago, embracing the close-knit community and rural lifestyle. She works in the transport industry, where the variety and pace of each day keep things dynamic and rewarding. A passionate fan of Formula One and rugby, Jacque enjoys the strong sporting culture New Zealand offers. She values the welcoming nature of Ōtorohanga and the balance it provides for both professional life and personal interests.

Cheyne Waldron

Board Member

Cheyne joined the Elevate Board in 2024. He is a Chartered Accountant and director at Bailey Ingham Chartered Accountants. A former student of Ōtorohanga College, he later completed a Bachelor of Management Studies at the University of Waikato. Cheyne values the strong community spirit of Ōtorohanga and enjoys working closely with local business owners and farmers. Outside of work, he spends time with his family, enjoys time on the farm and at the beach, and is often found on the football field either playing or supporting from the sidelines.

Employees

Meela Bhatti

Business Development Coordinator

Meela brings over 15 years of marketing experience, specialising in both traditional and digital strategies for small to medium-sized businesses. With a Bachelor of Communication Studies from the University of Waikato, she developed a strong passion for enhancing customer engagement and building brand recognition. A Te Awamutu local with experience of small business ownership, Meela has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by local businesses and is eager to use her expertise to support our ELEVATE members.

Sammie Bean

Events Coordinator

Sammie, a proud King Country local, has recently returned to Ōtorohanga after completing a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Anthropology and Gender Studies. With experience as a research assistant and a proven track record of leadership as a rugby captain and player, Sammie brings a diverse and dynamic skill set to any project. Her strong local knowledge also makes her a valuable asset in delivering information services to both the community and visitors to the area.

Kane Wharepouri

Digital Media Contractor

Kane is a creative storyteller, proud local, and lifelong champion of community and culture. With over 35 years of experience in media, Kane has worked across radio, broadcasting, and digital storytelling, with a focus on connecting people through powerful narratives. Kane has deep roots in the Ōtorohanga district, where he also runs a local business with his whānau. Kane is eager to use his skills to create engaging content for our members and community.