About Us
Koro Carman - Managing Director
Koro was born and raised in the Hokianga and comes from a tourism and hospitality background. Having returned home after a prolonged period of work in Auckland, he loves being back in the unique environment that is the Hokianga. Koro's biggest thrill is being involved in a business that is at the heart of the tourism industry in this special part of Northland. One that is creating opportunities for local people and that appeals to visitors interested in sustaining communities and natural areas of beauty.
Joe Wynyard - Footprints Waipoua Supervisor & Guide
Joe is also a native of the Hokianga and his past work has meant living in close proximity with nature in the Waipoua Forest. As an employee of the Department of Conservation, and the Northland Regional Council, Joe has spent over a decade protecting and sustaining the environment around the Hokianga to ensure its longevity for future visitors. Having lived in the forest, he is at home with some unusual neighbours such as Wetas and Kiwis and has some amazing stories to share with you about life in the bush.
Tawhiri Riwai - Footprints Waipoua & Crossings Hokianga Guide
Another native of the Hokianga, Tawhiri is currently studying Te Reo (Maori) at the Northland Polytechnic in Kaikohe. The traditional Maori language was orally based, i.e. spoken not written, and it is here that Tawhiri comes into his own. His lilting voice is a treat to hear and he will share this with you at unexpected moments during our walks and tours. The forest is constantly moving and listening and our response is provided through story and song.
Nikki Stil - Office Manager
Nikki joined Footprints Waipoua and CrossingsHokianga a year ago. Nikki has a background in office administration and enjoys meeting people. Nikki has a connection to Kohukohu but lives in Whirinaki with her partner and two young children.
Zak Bristowe - Skipper of Max
Zak, prior to joining Footprints Waipoua and Crossings Hokianga, worked as a commercial fisherman on the Hokianga Harbour. Zak is enjoying his new position and responsibility and showing people his office - 'the Hokianga Harbour'. Zak also has a military background that he is very proud of. Zac lives in Kohukohu.
Bill Matthews - Footprints Waipoua & Crossings Hokianga Guide
Bill recently returned home from Auckland. Bill enjoys the fact that he is at home close to his family and is able to explore and use his Maori knowledge. Bill has a really distinctive voice that send a chill down your spine. Bill is from Panguru but lives in Omapere.
Daniel Moke - Footprints Waipoua Guide
When Daniel is not at work you'll find him fishing, diving or hunting. Dan loves the outdoors and enjoys sharing this passion with visitors. Dan is a quiet but unassuming person who works hard; he's from Taheke and now lives in Opononi.
Ai Okada - Footprints Waipoua & Crossings Hokianga Japanese Speaking Guide
Ai is from Kobe, Japan and spent the last 7 years living on Yakushima Island. Ai graduated from the University of Hiroshima where she studied Marine Biology. Ai loves anything to do with Mother Nature and the outdoors. Ai worked for YNAC, a leading eco tourism operator, whilst living on Yakushima Island.
Jerry Te Tai - Footprints Waipoua & Crossings Hokianga Guide
Jerry is the newest and youngest member of our teams. Jerry spent a year at a school in USA. This opportunity opened up a whole new world of opportunities to Jerry. Jerry is a keen and fast learner and will do well in his chosen field. Jerry has aspirations of traveling again and we hope that he will use his tourism experiences with us to his advantage. Jerry hails from Motuti but lives in Omapere.
Rota Rota - Footprints Waipoua & Crossings Hokianga Guide
Rota is the youngest member of our team at 19 and hails from Panguru. Rota has recently returned home to the Hokianga from Australia. Rota's interests include kapa haka, rugby and meeting people. Prior to leaving for Australia Rota worked part time for Footprints. Welcome back Rota.
Japanese Language Page