OUR TEAM
Meet the Team
Hygi
Enger
THE MEANING BEHIND TIAKI
Tēnā tātou katoa, We are Tangata Tiriti here in Aotearoa and are the founders of Tiaki Tours. We are Enger Pelosi Fear, Michael Hygemann based in Hāwea, Wānaka, Te Wai Pounamu (the South Island of NZ). We have two beautiful tamariki and three very tame chickens.
Tiaki means to care, protect and conserve. Deciding on an appropriate name such as Tiaki is important to us and comes with a strong obligation. We aim to live into and honour the true meaning of the word. It describes what we feel to be crucial for tourism to operate positively and powerfully on the land here.
We are committed to the nations Tiaki Promise and the concept of regenerative tourism. We believe that tourism can be doing a lot better in terms of giving back to tangata whenua and the land of Aotearoa and Te Waipounaumu. Our aim is to honor our commitment to this beautiful place as lifelong kaitiaki of place, whenua and all activities we engage in as a newly established business.
We are humbly seeking and receiving guidance and advisory support from local hapū/papatipu, established Māori Tourism operators and Indigenous cultural impact agency – Making Everything Achievable to ensure we are operating in accordance with our values and also the values and direction of local communities.
Enger says:
“I have spent the last 15 years of my life quietly learning tikanga and te reo Māori as a Kairaranga and early childhood teacher learning how to be an effective ally, kaiako and bi-cultural exponent in my mahi. I am always learning and ready and willing to learn more. My background and passion in mahi raranga and environmental sustainability has shown me the importance of having a deep gratitude and respect for mātauranga Māori and te ao māori.”
Mike Hygeman
Our trusty tour manager, lead guide, driver and industry expert.
With fifteen years tour guiding experience and thirty years working in the New Zealand tourism industry, including establishing award-winning tours. Mike Hygemann, or Hygi as he is commonly known, draws on his years of industry knowledge and relationships to help you have the best tour experience.
While on tour, Hygi loves to surprise our guests by showing you the tucked away, secret locations, adding even more goodness to our very special tours.
Growing up on North Island beaches, Hygi discovered the thrill of our South Island mountains as a young adult. He is a treasure trove of local history and is not shy to share a good yarn.
Enger Pelosi-Fear
Introducing the other half of this operation; Enger.
As the home base to this duo, she is the lady pulling it all together behind the scenes. With a background in eco-business and education, her commitment towards environmental sustainability has transferred into her passion for regenerative tourism and she weaves this throughout the operations of Tiaki Tours.
Enger’s favourite pastimes include veggie gardening, fishing, cooking and being in nature.
She is an active member of the local community and immerses herself in the cultural fabric of Aotearoa, New Zealand. In her capable hands you can be sure all the finer details of your tour will be taken care of.
Testimonials
Enger is an amazing storyteller so it was great to learn more about the culture and language.
Highly recommend taking a trip with Enger and Hygi.
Would highly recommend Tiaki Tours if you are interested in a sustainable eco- tourist experience of beautiful NZ South Island - these guys know it is a “taonga” treasure to look after and cherish.
Such a wonderful experience.
I highly recommend Tiaki Tours!