Board Members

Mark is the Dean - Graduate Research School Post Graduate Studies at Auckland University of Technology and is a respected yachtsman having been involved in successful campaigns from around the world ocean races, The America’s Cup, and New Zealand championships in a range of small yacht classes.

He is an important leader in the governance of the sport and has served as a New Zealand selector, as a captain of New Zealand representative teams, he is on the board of the New Zealand Sailing Trust and the New Zealand International Yachting Trust and is a key member of the organising team for the largest small boat regatta in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sir Peter Blake Torbay Regatta. In his spare time, Mark enjoys surfing, sailing, paddle boarding and scuba diving.

Alick has been a master mariner for over 50 years working mainly on freighters and in the offshore exploration industry. He is currently semi-retired, though still works on contracts captaining seismic research vessels or doing ship deliveries. Outside the professional sphere, Alick’s interests lie in golf, fishing and the majority of other outdoor activities.

Tony operates a Chartered Accountancy practice in Silverdale and has served as Treasurer on several sports club committees in the past. Outside of work, Tony has a keen interest in yachting and diving and is a local in the Torbay/Long Bay area.

Denise is an advocacy consultant where she uses her fresh perspective and strong political nous gained from her time as a Councillor for Auckland Council and a Member of Parliament for Maungakiekie.  Like MERC, she is passionate about the community and serves tirelessly for the collective good.  She has specific skills in engagement and a natural ability to build rapport with stakeholders. Personable and warm, she has exceptional strategic planning, communication and management skills.

An amazing communicator and a kete full of knowledge, Matua Glenn Wilcox brings vast governance experience.  He is a member of the Independent Maori Statutory Board and has served on the Conservation Board for Auckland.  He is the chair of the Te Runanga o Ngati Whatua Fisheries and commercial group of companies.  With a keen interest in health and youth development he is also a Board Member of Healthwest.  Equally as important as his governance experience is his connection and representation of mana whenua, Ngati whatua ki kaipara.