The pair have been appointed Kaitohutohu Senior Advisor, Business and Infrastructure. They join Director Pou Arataki Māori Reg Proffit and Kaitohutohu Māori - Tumuaki (Principal Consultant) Nathan Capper.
Ōtautahi (Christchurch)-based Stephanie is an environmental scientist with years of experience in the stormwater sector, environmental management and contaminated land. She sits on the Māori advisory boards of the Water Services Authority Taumata Arowai and the Environmental Protection Authority.
Gisborne-based Marc holds an MSc (Distinction) in Marine Science and has over 20 years’ experience across aquaculture, fisheries and primary industries, including senior commercial leadership roles. He works with Māori entities to identify and progress aquaculture opportunities, with particular expertise in land-based systems and their integration with water and environmental management.
WSP Director Pou Arataki Māori Reg Proffit welcomes Stephanie and Marc, saying their technical expertise and deep understanding of Te Ao Māori strengthen WSP’s ability to deliver outcomes that are both sustainable and culturally appropriate.
“Our business unit brings Māori values, customs, and mātauranga (traditional knowledge) into the heart of infrastructure and environment projects. Providing strategic advice is a key part of our work, as is partnering with iwi and hapū to help realise their infrastructure aspirations.”
The team’s expansion comes at a time when the Māori economy, now valued at $70 billion, is reaching new highs. With many iwi becoming key infrastructure investors, there are significant opportunities for further growth, including in areas such as Māori aquaculture.
Stephanie and Marc say they’re excited to get started.
“WSP’s impressive 150-year legacy gives a deep understanding of how Aotearoa’s infrastructure works and where it’s under pressure. Thanks to WSP's growing integration of Te Ao Māori perspectives and Future Ready® approach, we’re well placed to partner with iwi and hapū to shape what comes next.”
More information about WSP’s Māori Business and Advisory Services unit can be found here.
