OUR TEAM
Our people at Kirra, are at the heart of everything we do and our office team possess unparalleled expertise in building perfectly curated New Zealand tours.
Then there's listening to stories from one of our expert tour guides, no matter who you're liaising with, you're in the best possible hands. We truly believe, that it's also the passion, experience and energy of our local expert guides that truly sets us apart on the ground. They love assisting you to uncover all of New Zealand's most amazing highlights, hidden gems and scenic wonders. When you join us on a tour, you really do become part of our whānau (family).
Brett Hudson - CEO
Brett is our powerhouse CEO. He's been part of the Kirra Tours family for over 20 years and loves to get stuck into everything from driving coaches to overseeing our operations. Being embedded in the team and industry for decades means Brett has unwavering dedication to New Zealand as a whole, our business, our people and our passion for all things purpose. Brett loves a good yarn so if you give him a call, make sure you have at least half an hour spare!
Matt Southerden - Operations Manager
Matt is an essential part of the Kirra Tours team, ensuring our logistics, health & safety, certifications and all things ground related are seamless and smooth. He's the grease that keep this exceptional cog turning and in the background, Matt ensures that your journey is the best it can possibly be.
Eve Lawrence - Global Sales Director
Eve joins the team here at Kirra in October 2025 as our Global Sales Director. With over 20 years in the travel and events industry, Eve will be nurturing our destination management clients, bringing on board new partners and generally managing all things sales strategy related. Eve absolutely loves the outdoors, and on a calm day, you will definitely find her fishing or spearfishing around Tauranga.
Sam Bakker - Reservations Manager
Samantha has been with the Stray team for over 6 years and is our Reservations Manager. Without Sam, there would be no accommodation, dinner or activity reservations for your Kirra Tour! Sam ensures our supply relationships are smooth and well managed and that we're choosing the best suited superior accommodations across all our tours. Sam also provides Matt with logistical operations support during the busy summer season.
Natalie - Product Lead
Natalie is the mastermind behind our tour itineraries and inclusions. She is constantly looking for ways to make our product better and is always on the hunt for a fabulous new partnership to enhance your experience with us.
Yufei Ye - Finance Manager
We all have to pay the bills, which makes Yufei another core member of our Kirra Tours team. Yufei not only ensures that our team, suppliers and tour guides are paid each month, he also ensures that your tour is priced as competitively as possible so you get the best value for money!
Rebecca Hudson - Accountant
Rebecca is another one of our dedicated accounts team, without whom our tours wouldn't be the best value for money in the business.
