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Mike and Lianne - avid travellers sharing their love of Hawkes Bay.

Mike and his family span three generations in Hawkes Bay, one set of grandparents living through the 1931 earthquake and the others farmed land in the Esk Valley which now forms Linden Estate Winery. Growing up a stones throw from the Mission Estate Vineyard, New Zealand’s oldest vineyard and the birthplace of New Zealands’s viticulture industry, Mike’s school summers were spent picking fruit, working in wool scours and hospitality. He then embarked on a career in finance in London for seven years before moving back to New Zealand and settling in Wellington. He transitioned into Executive Search and Recruitment, founding his own nation-wide business in 2008, counting New Zealand Stock Exchange listed businesses, government agencies, wealth managers and the Not for Profit sector in his client base. This breadth of experience sees Mike able to converse across a varied range of topics, coupled with his love of people, travel and commitment to service. Whilst Mike retains a Directorship and shareholding in his business, it’s time for his next adventure, meeting new people and showcasing his love for the exceptional location that is Hawkes Bay. Mike is an avid cyclist, golfer and tech investor.

Lianne grew up in Wellington and the Wairarapa, spending summers in Hawkes Bay before moving to Wellington to begin her career in finance and funds management. London beckoned and after a time there she returned to Wellington expanding her career into commercial real estate and owning and operating her own startup commercial cleaning business. Life took her to the South Island where she settled in Marlborough. The next 15 years saw Lianne jointly founding a residential real estate business which ultimately led her back into commercial property and retail; co-owning and operating a big box retail store. Being involved with this significant business put Lianne at the forefront of the local community, and in Marlborough region this means wine, tourism and hospitality; the South Island equivalent to the Hawkes Bay. A two year stint in Sydney had her out on the harbour running yet another business - learn to sail coaching for children. Returning to Wellington, Lianne took up the position of Executive Assistant and Board Secretary at New Zealand’s largest dispute resolution company. Lianne enjoys photography and is a qualified Reiki practitioner.

Between them Lianne and Mike have six adult children who are all busy making their way in the world. Their home in Havelock North is their sanctuary.