Our Team
Ollie Ormond
Ollie Ormond

Managing Director

Ollie started his hospitality journey at Boomrock in Wellington and now boasts over 20 years of industry experience.

After earning a degree in Hotel Management, he gained global experience managing luxury hotels like The Savoy London, Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, and Raffles Praslin Seychelles, hosting elite clients and overseeing operations.

Returning to New Zealand after 12 years abroad, Ollie expanded the family business, launching Kauri Bay in Auckland. His blend of international expertise and Kiwi charm has set a new standard in hospitality.

Ollie thrives on creating unique, out-of-the-box experiences.

Kerry Hand

General Manager

With a passion for hospitality and a wealth of diverse experience, Kerry brings a unique blend of skills and expertise to the team.

Originally hailing from the culinary world, Kerry holds a Diploma in Culinary Arts from AUT and has spent over 10 years in the hospitality industry, working as a chef and events manager. His career has also spanned over a range business  such as Puhoi Valley and several NZ-based food companies and Corporate Chef.

Outside of work, Kerry is an avid outdoors enthusiast, enjoys spending time with family, and has a deep love for cars and sports. His easy-going personality, combined with a genuine passion for hospitality and events.

Jeroen
Jeroen van Bilsen

Head Chef

Jeroen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team.

As a young boy, his journey began in a bakery in Holland, where his passion for food first sparked.

With a career spanning across Europe, Canada, and NZ, he has finally settled in New Zealand with his wife and three children.

Jeroen has been an integral part of our team since we opened, embodying dedication and expertise

Danica
Danica Griggs

Head of Events & Marketing

Danica started as a casual while pursuing a Bachelor of Design with a minor in Photography.

Through dedication and hard work, she progressed to a full-time role and is now head of events and marketing.

Her commitment to learning ensures our operations run smoothly, and her infectious positivity uplifts the team.

Danica has a newfound love for Pilates and enjoys camping trips around New Zealand.

Joel
Joel Dowden

Head of Operations

From his early days doing odd jobs around the farm, Joel’s journey led him to pursue a Bachelor of Business with a major in Marketing.

With a natural knack for networking, Joel joined us in 2021 as an event coordinator and property manager. He quickly ascended to Head of Operations, overseeing seamless event execution, property management, and all the essential behind-the-scenes details that ensure everything runs smoothly.

Joel thrives on the daily interactions and diversity of people he meets outdoors.

Beyond work, he enjoys some time off the grid hunting.

Elle
Elle Kennedy

Event Co-ordinator

Having spent most of her life in the fashion industry, Elle embarked on a new career journey with us during our busiest season, diving headfirst into her role as an event coordinator.

Her dedication to ensuring flawless event execution is highly valued. Outside of work, Elle is a devoted mother of two who finds joy in embracing a life of health and wellness and spending time with her nearest and dearest.

Emily, Event Coordinator for Kauri Bay Boomrock
Emily Brady

Event Co-ordinator

With 5 years of international experience in the events industry, ranging from creative director to logistics manager, Emily now excels as an Event Coordinator at Kauri Bay. During her time here, she has proven herself as a dedicated and efficient team member, consistently running weddings and events smoothly.

Emily is known for her commitment to ensuring every detail is perfect and her genuine care for our clients, always going above and beyond to make their experiences memorable.

Outside of work, you’ll find Emily staying active, cooking, reading, and enjoying the outdoors. She’s also passionate about supporting her partner from the sidelines of his rugby games. A proud “Swiftie,” Emily loves everything Taylor Swift.

Emily Sloane

Events & Operations Co-ordinator

Emily our Events and Operations Coordinator, after starting out as a casual three years ago while studying business. She’s grown within the company, balancing her studies with her passion for event planning and operations. Known for her dedication, efficiency, and attention to detail.

Outside of work, Emily loves road trips, attending music festivals, and indulging in her passion for shopping. She is an invaluable addition to the team, always bringing energy and enthusiasm to every project she takes on.

NEW ZEALAND TOURISM’S OFFICIAL QUALITY ASSURANCE

Qualmark Gold

A Gold Award recognises the best sustainable tourism businesses in New Zealand, with the delivery of exceptional customer experiences an integral part of everything they do. A Gold Sustainable Tourism Award identifies those businesses leading the way in making the New Zealand tourism industry a world-class sustainable visitor destination.

Qual Mark
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