A Vibrant CommunitySharing our district and community’s story and successes, creating a sense of belonging and pride among residents and businesses alike.
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
Business SuccessOffering a range of support services aimed at fostering positive and meaningful connections, providing business development opportunities, and promoting business success.
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
Michelle joined the Elevate Board in 2022 and brings a wealth of financial experience from her work in accounting, logistics, and the hospitality industry. Since moving to Ōtorohanga in 2019, she’s become an active member of the community — volunteering at local events like Ride in a Truck Day, performing in local choirs, and supporting festive initiatives through the Christmas Club. Michelle is passionate about using her skills to strengthen connections across the district and promote the spirit that makes Ōtorohanga unique.
Katrina Christison
For over two decades, Katrina has proudly called Ōtorohanga home. With nine years as an elected member of the local council, she brings a deep understanding of local governance and a strong commitment to being a genuine voice for the community.
Katrina has been active in local sports, fundraising, and community events like Children’s Day. As the owner of Tidy Gardens, she combines hands-on leadership with small business experience, offering practical insights to Elevate Ōtorohanga. Her approach is grounded in community values—and her garden, where she finds inspiration and joy.
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.
