Hana Hielkema

Kia ora! Ko Hana taku ingoa.

Growing up in the Cook Islands, my connection to the ocean began early – exploring vibrant lagoons, watching tropical fish dart among corals, and sailing optimist dinghies at the Rarotonga Sailing Club. These formative experiences sparked a lifelong love of maritime environments and adventure.

Returning to Aotearoa New Zealand at eleven, I continued to pursue my passion for sailing, eventually moving to Tāmaki Makaurau to spend countless hours on the Waitemata while completing my university studies. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English, Film, and Television, and a post-graduate diploma in Communications with a Journalism major.

I have recently returned to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland after nine years in Pēwhairangi Bay of Islands. Now based on Auckland’s North Shore as a mother of two, I’m dedicated to amplifying stories which inspire environmental responsibility. At BLAKE, I’m passionate about promoting programs that cultivate Kaitiakitanga (guardianship) for our environment and feel privileged to support our wonderful group of educators and staff as well as celebrate the stories which showcase the impact these programs have on schools, organisations, and communities nationwide.

In my role, I will be leading the BLAKE Awards and supporting our NZ-VR team in Auckland, working to engage and educate tamariki about the critical importance of protecting our marine environments.

For media enquiries, please email [email protected].