A shared vision
The Guardians of the Sea Charitable Trust Ngā Kaitiaki mo Tangaroa is led by a board consisting of six trustees. While each member brings with them considerable business acumen, it’s their shared passion and empathy towards the vision of our organisation that ensures that our Trust can confidently and purposefully work towards a better future for fishing in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Collectively, we’ve committed to leading, educating and inspiring New Zealanders to achieve sustainable fisheries and a coastline for all to enjoy. With robust governance in place, we ensure that every dollar raised goes towards the protection of our precious ocean resources.

Where it began
Seed funding was raised from several benefactors which has enabled the Trust’s formation, establishment and development of fundraising collateral. In 2006, The Guardians of the Sea Charitable Trust Ngā Kaitiaki mo Tangaroa was incorporated and obtained charitable status as defined by the Charitable Trust Act 1957. We are approved by Inland Revenue for the purposes of sections KC 5, DB 32 and DV 11 of the Income Tax Act 2004.
[Our team, from left to right: Tom Fox, Steve Sangster, Wane Wharerau, Martin Irvine, Luke Kingstone, Jason Foord]
The Trustees
- Tom Fox, company director of Auckland (Chairman)
- Martin Irvine, company director of Auckland
- Jason Foord, company director of Auckland
- Wane Wharerau, Police Iwi Liaison Officer (Kaitakawāenga Māori) Waitematā
- Steve Sangster, Hubands Energy, of Kaikohe
- Luke Kingstone, company director of Auckland
Endorsements
The Board has the endorsement of:
- Te Rūnanga A Iwi O Ngāpuhi
- Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Whātua
- The Hokianga Accord
- The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council
Support
Professional support and advice to the Trust is provided by:
- Solicitors: Martelli McKegg, PWC Building, 188 Quay St, Auckland
- Accountants: Phibbs and Co, Grey Lynn, Mr. John Phibbs
- Auditors: Jolly Duncan Wells , Ellerslie
- Bankers: ASB Bank Limited, East Auckland Commercial Banking Branch