About us
Eco-index began as a public-funded research programme with the Biological Heritage National Science Challenge. In 2024 we set up as a purpose-driven company and in 2025 evolved into a charitable company.
Our vision was to weave knowledge and people to revolutionise investment for te taiao.
Our services were powered by a team of experts and our own custom-built digital products.
Our values:
Matatika
transparency, openness and honesty
Taonga tuku iho
nurturing the treasures handed down to us,
particularly our environment and people
Auahatanga
creativity, innovation and adaptability
Tino rangatiratanga
freedom to act and empower others
Core Eco-index Team
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Kevan Côté
Data Scientist
Moose Engineering & Design
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![Karen Denyer]()
Karen Denyer
Senior Ecologist
Papawera Geological Consulting
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![Catherine Kirby]()
Catherine Kirby
Communication Manager
Bryter Science
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![Aaron McGlinchy]()
Aaron McGlinchy
Operations Manager
Independent Consultant
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Penny Payne
Business Development Manager
Penny Payne Consulting
Ngāi Tahu: Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Kāti Huirapa
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![Olivia Stead]()
Olivia Stead
Administrator
University of Waikato
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Dr Kiri Joy Wallace
Director
Restoration EcologistIndependent Consultant
University of Waikato - Environmental Research Institute
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Corey Ruha
Director
Iwi Liaison & Data ScientistIndependent Consultant
Te Arawa, Tainui, Mātaatua
Trustees & Advisors
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Jan Hania
Trustee
Eco-cultural Restoration EnablerIndependent Advisor
Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Raukawa-ki-te-Tonga
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![Dr John Reid]()
Dr John Reid
Trustee
Systems SpecialistEarth Quotient
Ngāti Pikiao, Tainui
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Dr Kiri Joy Wallace
Trustee
Restoration EcologistIndependent Consultant
University of Waikato - Environmental Research Institute
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![Dr Jay Whitehead]()
Dr Jay Whitehead
Advisor
Environmental EconomistMatatihi
Ngāi Tahu, Ōraka Aparima, Kāti Māmoe
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Jemma Penelope
Advisor
Technical IntegrationIndependent Consultant
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Jeremy Gray
Advisor
Digital SpecialistGray & Shinn Consulting
Business for Impact:
Our Charitable Company Model
Eco-index Ltd was a charitable company, wholly owned by the Te Mauri o te Taiao Charitable Trust. This means that all profits generated by Eco-index flowed directly to the Trust to support nature-positive action nationwide.