Meet Our Team

Director at Incredible India Restaurant, Cafe Lacus,  Earthy Foods, & Dough Bros Pizza.

Abhinav is an entrepreneur passionate about the hospitality industry. Since arriving in New Zealand as a student in 2010, he has worked his way up to owning multiple successful hospitality businesses. His dedication to providing exceptional service and diverse food products is evident in his ventures.

Abhinav is committed to being part of the board to contribute to the growth of the business community in Taupo. He believes that to grow in business, you need to support the business community around you.

Commercial Insurance Broker at Gallagher Insurance New Zealand.

After more than a decade in Taupo, Jess brings a range of skills and a deep-rooted commitment to our community. With her husband and three wonderful boys, she has made Taupo their home and is passionate about contributing to its ongoing success.

Jess is enthusiastic about being on the board because she believes there are many opportunities in Taupo for our up-and-coming business leaders. Using her background and skills in event management, she aims to enhance the vibrant business environment and create meaningful, well-organised events that bring our business community together.

Jess is dedicated to ensuring that Taupo not only grows but thrives, benefiting both current residents and future generations.

After spending 5 years away from Taupō attending University in Hamilton and attempting city living in Auckland, I returned home to Taupō and started work at Strettons. I have been with Strettons over 15 years and am now a Director with a portfolio of clients that cover a variety of industries within the Taupō region. My passion is helping these businesses grow and succeed which in turn helps the growth of our region.

I love Taupō and it is the perfect place for my husband and I to raise our two gorgeous girls. We are all involved in the community and try to support as many events as possible that come to our town.

Michelle is a Director of Strettons.

After moving away from Taupō in 2013 to attend University and live the big city life in Auckland, it wasn’t long before I realised my hometown is where I wanted to settle down. I moved back to Taupō at the end of 2020. In 2021, my Husband and I took the massive risk to open Confinement Escape Rooms Taupō, and it was worth it!

I am constantly reminded why Taupō is such an amazing place to live and do business. Moving back and becoming involved in the business community has really shown me another side to Taupō that I really enjoy and thrive in. I love networking, helping others and being involved. After a year of interning for the board, I decided to put my hand up for a board member position. I am absolutely thrilled to be on the 2023 board and I cannot wait to be involved in the exciting upcoming events, sub-committees and most of all being able to represent the Taupo Business Community.

Deiryn is a Director at Confinement Escape Rooms Taupō

I am currently the Chief Executive Officer of Anamata, Taupo’s Youth Health Organisation. I have a background in health management and education with a focus on community engagement and project management.

In my spare time, I enjoy nothing more than being outdoors and exploring our beautiful district. I have a passion for learning and am currently studying towards a Masters in Business Administration.

I am excited to join the board of Taupo’s Business Chamber and to contribute to their Kaupapa of business advocacy, networking and building business capability within our rohe.

Aaron Carter owns Total Sport.

Mary joined the Chamber in February 2025.  A Director at MMC Law, she is excited to contribute her legal expertise to the Taupō Business Chamber board, focusing on demystifying legislation and regulations for local businesses.

Inspired to make a tangible difference in Taupō, she’s passionate about helping businesses address and navigate post-COVID challenges.  Along with economic uncertainty, she sees employee issues and shareholder disputes as the other big concerns facing businesses at the moment.  Mary’s integrity and her ability to create comfortable environments are valuable assets.

Outside of work, Mary is a mean sourdough baker, pickleball player,  early morning dog walker and want-to-be tramper! She looks forward to supporting a thriving Taupō business community.

Jess joined the Taupō Business Chamber in April 2025, bringing both a fresh perspective and a strong foundation of experience to the board. As Practice Manager at Cheal Consultants Taupō, she focuses on operational excellence, collaboration, and community impact.

Having lived across New Zealand and around the globe, Jess found her way to Taupō in early 2025—and it didn’t take long for the town to feel like home. She’s drawn to the warmth and camaraderie of the local community, which she believes is one of Taupō’s greatest strengths.

Jess is passionate about building meaningful connections and advocating for local business success. Through her role with the Chamber, she champions initiatives that support small businesses, amplify local voices, and strengthen the region’s economic resilience.

In her spare time, Jess is a rookie knitter, avid walker, passionate reader, yoga enthusiast, and a loyal Warriors fan.

Rahul has proudly called Taupō home for the past 15 years, witnessing and contributing to its growth and evolving economy.

As a passionate small business owner, he brings hands-on experience in hospitality, community engagement, and customer service. Rahul is an active member of the Taupō business community, with a strong belief in collaboration, knowledge sharing, and supporting local development. His journey reflects a deep commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and making a positive impact.

Outside of business, he loves to hang out with his 6 year old son and enjoys playing cricket and badminton — both on the court and in building team spirit within the community.

Sharon joined the Taupo Business Chamber Board in May 2025, having lived in the Taupō area her whole life, and in business for over 20 years.

As owner/operator of Liquorland Taupō and Kokomea, Sharon is passionate about people enjoying being in business and striving to be the best they can.

Sharon brings skills in the retail sector and is wanting Taupō to be the region where people find doing business conducive and visiting is a delight.

In her spare time, Sharon is a keen golfer and enjoys being outdoors.

As a Commercial Business broker at Gallagher Insurance, Kerre works closely with local businesses to support their growth and stability. After joining the board as an intern in May 2025, Kerre is eager to bring fresh perspectives to the Board while learning from experienced professionals. She is a strong advocate for collaboration and is dedicated to partnering with fellow members and business owners to achieve common goals that enhance commerce in Taupo.

Outside of her professional work, Kerre enjoys fishing with her partner, catching up with friends over coffee, and unwinding with a session at the sauna. She is excited to contribute to the Taupo Business Chamber and looks forward to being an active member moving forward.

Caitlin is the Operations Manager at Taupō TOP 10 Holiday Park, where she leads the day-to-day with a focus on great guest experiences, strong team culture, and smooth, efficient operations. With a background in hospitality and people leadership, she’s all about creating systems that work, and making work feel good for the people doing it.

In 2024, Caitlin was proud to receive the Emerging Star Award from the Holiday Parks Association of New Zealand, recognising her contribution to the tourism sector and her fresh approach to leadership.

In her spare time, she loves doing anything to do with puzzles, hunting and spending time with family and friends.

As an Intern Board Member, she’s looking forward to bringing a new and younger perspective to the Chamber table. She’s passionate about supporting local business, learning from others, and helping shape a strong future for the Taupō business community.