Marlborough’s professionals inspiring journeys to success

Marlborough is home to a wealth of talent across a diverse range of industries, from finance and law to architecture, wine, and construction. In this special feature, we shine a spotlight on local professionals who are making an impact – whether they are new to the region, have recently reached career milestones, or are shaping the future of their industries.

Success is rarely a straight path, and each individual profiled here has a unique story to tell. Some have worked their way up within respected organisations, while others have brought fresh perspectives and expertise to the region. From innovative architects designing Marlborough’s next landmarks to finance professionals guiding clients through economic shifts, these individuals are defining excellence in their fields. Their journeys reflect hard work, dedication, and a passion for their craft – qualities that continue to strengthen Marlborough’s professional landscape.

Join Marlborough Magazine as we meet the people behind the titles, gaining insight into the paths they’ve taken and the impact they are making in our community.

From rural beginnings to legal heights
Portia Steel | Solicitor | Lundons Law

Growing up in a farming and fishing family in Marlborough showed solicitor, Portia Steel, how much Marlborough had to offer. Towards the end of high school, she says she felt a gravitational pull towards a higher education.

“Victoria University was where I was drawn. In the early days of university, I played for the New Zealand Māori Netball team and balanced a Bachelor of Commerce. In my third year of university, I decided to add a Law degree. Commercial law papers sparked my interest - the teaching of 'how to think, not what to think' was the sticking point that set them apart for me. The Law degree was gruelling, but the issues we were learning about in lectures was what gave the degree life.”

Portia says her admission to the bar as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court in 2021 in Blenheim was a career highlight. “Having the ceremony in Blenheim meant I was able to share this milestone with the ‘village’ that supported me along the way. As a lawyer, I am practising law, and I emphasise practising because the law is forever evolving and no one day is the same, as a lawyer I will always be practising and that drives the passion. Practising law provides exposure to almost all facets of our society – there is always a variety of work on the go, so it’s important to have a strong team to get the best outcome for clients, and I am proud to be a team member at Lundons Law.”

03 578 9988 | lundonslaw.com

Empowering businesses through expertise
Rosie Jarvis | Chartered Accountant + Partner | BDO Marlborough Tasman

Rosie Jarvis, a familiar face at BDO Marlborough Tasman, has spent over a decade supporting local businesses, helping them to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Her journey into the accounting profession began close to home and was fuelled by a personal connection.

“Growing up, my parents ran their own small business, and I saw firsthand the challenges and rewards,” says Rosie. “I was always good with numbers, and I wanted to help other businesses thrive, so accounting seemed like a logical choice. The dynamic nature of accounting, combined with the opportunity to work closely with clients and make a tangible impact on their businesses, aligned with my goals and motivated me to enter this profession.”

After graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, majoring in Professional Accounting and Management, Rosie embarked on her career. Since joining BDO in 2011, Rosie’s journey has been marked by significant achievements. In 2015, she became a chartered accountant, and by 2021, her expertise and dedication earned her a promotion to Associate. Completing BDO’s leadership program, RISE, in 2023, and obtaining her Certificate of Public Practice from CAANZ in 2024, are all milestones that underscore her commitment to growth and excellence. “These accomplishments have reinforced my dedication to provide the best possible service to those I work with.”

For Rosie, accounting is about fostering business success through strategic insights and bespoke solutions. “Typically, accountants have been viewed as ‘number crunchers’ who are solely focused on compliance work. Whilst we can certainly do that, I am keen to expand the perception of what an accountant does. Our expertise encompasses a deep understanding of business operations and the ability to provide tailored solutions that drive efficiency and profitability.” Rosie’s passion lies in the success of her clients. “I am driven by the satisfaction of seeing my clients succeed and knowing that I have played a role in their success. The ever-evolving nature of the industry keeps me engaged and motivated and the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and industries ensures that no two days are the same, making my work both challenging and fulfilling.”

As she steps into her new role as Partner at BDO Marlborough Tasman, Rosie says, “I am excited to continue my journey with this incredible team and am eager to embark on this new chapter and build strong relationships with our clients, while helping them to achieve their goals.”

03 579 3605 | [email protected] | bdo.nz

Making investing accessible for all
Nikki Jacobson | Investment Adviser | Forsyth Barr

Investing wasn’t a common topic of conversation growing up, but Nikki’s parents valued education and encouraged her to pursue a finance degree at Victoria University. Nikki began her career as a trainee FX Dealer, a role that introduced her to the pace of financial markets. As one of only two women among 50 dealers, she quickly developed resilience, self-belief, and discovered she had the ability to deal with people from all walks of life.

“Over 15 years, my passion for the markets grew and I went on to manage both regional and national dealing desks. I then worked as a Corporate Dealer at Barclays Capital in London but returned to New Zealand when an opportunity arose to establish a wealth team in Auckland, later relocating to Marlborough to spend more time with my young family. Today, as an Investment Adviser at Forsyth Barr’s Marlborough office, my goal is to make investing accessible to all. I want to go the extra mile for my clients and empower people to grow their wealth.”

Nikki’s clients often seek alternatives to term deposits, opting for investments that offer growth potential, and the ability to withdraw income when needed. “Whilst there is an element of risk with any investment, our portfolios are highly diversified and personalised to suit a client’s objectives and risk tolerance”.

The above content does not contain financial advice – for financial advice please contact Investment Adviser Nikki Jacobsen, by calling (03) 921 5021 or by visiting Forsyth Barr’s Marlborough office at 3 Waters Avenue, Blenheim.

03 921 5020 | forsythbarr.co.nz

Crafting spaces that inspire
Ben Stace | Architectural Designer & Owner | Design Marlborough

Fascinated by how quality spaces impact daily life, Ben Stace’s journey into architecture began in primary school, where sketching houses and designing spaces sparked a lifelong passion. That early enthusiasm evolved into a thriving career as the owner of Design Marlborough, where Ben crafts spaces that blend functionality with beauty. For Ben, every completed project is a milestone. Larger projects often span months or years, making the relationships built along the way just as significant as the final result. “When clients invite me to celebrate in their new space it really confirms I’m in the right profession. For my work and personal life to blur into one is a lovely thing.”

Ben’s passion for architecture extends beyond work. “It’s so ingrained at this point, I don’t know what else I could do. I’m always discussing architecture, sometimes to the annoyance of my fiancée, Alex, and loved ones! When I’m not working on designs, I’m looking at existing buildings, listening to podcasts, and basing travel around visiting architectural works. It's a slight obsession!”

Design Marlborough is a small but mighty team, with Ben joined by Taz Gilbert to manage an ever-growing workload. “Having Taz on board brings fantastic and fresh perspectives to our projects,” Ben says. He also credits Marlborough’s talented builders and subcontractors for making client connections seamless. “It’s amazing to know we positively impact our clients’ lives, whether through a functional renovation or a new build with stunning Marlborough views,” Ben says.

0273309186 | designmarlborough.co.nz

Helping Kiwis achieve their property dreams
Ashlee Wiblin | Mortgage Adviser/Director | The Home Loan Collective

For Ashlee Wiblin, serendipity happened in 2018 when she met mortgage adviser Peter Lewis during her own quest for homeownership. Walking away from their first meeting with the beginning of her next career move, Ashlee left her role as a finance and insurance manager in the motor vehicle industry and began working alongside Peter, helping others to achieve their property goals.

“Owning a home is such a significant milestone in a person’s life, and I wanted to play a part in making that happen. I soaked up as much as I could to set my own business into motion, and we expanded our services to help more and more Kiwis on their property journeys.” In 2021, Peter stepped back to give Ashlee the opportunity to take over and merge the business with her own, creating The Home Loan Collective.

“Taking over the business, launching The Home Loan Collective in 2022, and building a brand I’m truly proud of have all been major career highlights,” says Ashlee. “Alongside mentoring new professionals and watching them thrive in their careers.” With a team of specialists in place and a clear vision, the business has gone from strength to strength, offering a fresh approach to navigating the complexities of home loans. Ashlee’s dedication has been recognised with numerous accolades, including Young Business Person of the Year at the 2022 Marlborough Chamber of Commerce Business Awards and Business Operator of the Year at the 2024 NZ Astute Financial Management Awards.

“Achieving these milestones reminds me why I do what I do. Hearing clients express their joy and satisfaction makes it all worthwhile. While this job is demanding, and no two weeks are ever the same – keeping my work dynamic and challenging – it’s incredibly fulfilling to know my efforts have a direct and positive impact on people’s lives. My passion is fuelled by the relationships I build and the assurance that my clients are on the right path.”

Ashlee encourages anyone embarking on their property journey to consider working with a mortgage adviser. “Our team at The Home Loan Collective offer tailored solutions, clear strategies, and ongoing support. Going straight to the bank isn’t aways the easiest option either, and we aim to make the home-buying process as smooth as possible, with a fresh approach and a clear strategy to help you achieve your major property goals.”

03 578 0033 | homeloanco.nz

Blending tradition and innovation in the wine industry
Emilien Remond | Co-Founder | PinotQR

For Emilien Remond, wine has always been a passion rooted in his upbringing in Jura, France, where it was a part of everyday life. “The science, artistry, and the way it brought people together fascinated me,” says Emilien. This early curiosity led him to pursue a Master of Enology and a career spanning over two decades.

In 2009, Emilien moved to Marlborough, where he found the perfect opportunity to combine his French heritage with New Zealand’s dynamic wine culture. Today, Emilien runs two thriving businesses: Fine Wine Supplies and PinotQR.

A particular highlight was launching Fine Wine Supplies in 2015, which allowed me to directly support New Zealand winemakers. “More recently, I started PinotQR, a digital platform to help winemakers worldwide comply with the European Union’s new wine labelling regulations. These rules require transparency about ingredients, and through QR codes, we provide a modern solution. Our QR codes are evolving to align with GS1’s 2D standards, ensuring the industry stays ahead of technological shifts. It’s rewarding to know that PinotQR helps winemakers navigate regulatory changes while enhancing the experience for wine lovers.”

“Looking back, the highlights of my career have always been about people – meeting passionate winemakers, learning from their wisdom, and sharing incredible wines. The best wines aren’t necessarily the most expensive; they’re the ones shared with friends, creating memories that last a lifetime. This belief fuels everything I do, reminding me that wine is about connection and celebration.”

Emilien’s passion is fuelled by the ever-evolving nature of the wine industry. “Every day brings endless opportunities to learn and grow. The wine industry is dynamic and full of surprises. And, of course, the simple joy of sharing a great bottle of wine with friends reminds me why I fell in love with this field in the first place.”

Looking ahead, Emilien is committed to championing the wine industry. “I’d like to acknowledge the resilience and creativity of winemakers worldwide. The industry faces significant challenges, but it continues to innovate and adapt. Through my businesses, I’m proud to play a small part in helping winemakers overcome these challenges and focus on what they do best: crafting exceptional wines.”

“To anyone considering a career in wine, I’d say this: embrace the unknown. Stay curious, stay humble, and always remember that wine is about more than just what’s in the bottle – it’s about the people, stories, and shared moments it brings to life.”

pinotqr.com

Law with a personal touch
Sarah Wadworth | Special Counsel | Lane Neave Lawyers

Working at leading national firm Lane Neave Lawyers, Sarah Wadworth says her journey into law was more a fortunate discovery than a linear path. With a passion for people and a knack for problem-solving, Sarah took a first-year law paper at university on the off-chance that science wasn’t her calling.

“Disclaimer – science was not my calling – and I have never looked back. On reflection, both professions are centred around people and being able to make a meaningful impact or change – that was the real draw card.”

Since then, Sarah has carved out a remarkable career specialising in Family and Employment Law, including experience in dispute resolution and litigation. This included her role as Partner at a Blenheim-based general practice, where she built a diverse litigation portfolio focused on employment and relationship property matters, before joining Lane Neave in 2024.

“I’ve had the privilege of working on interesting and varied cases over the years and have gained a lot of court exposure and experience through previous employment – for which I will be forever grateful.”

Lane Neave Lawyers strives to deliver exceptional legal advice and outstanding client service consistently across its wide range of practice areas. “I’m delighted to be part of that drive and to be able to introduce those in Marlborough to the Lane Neave team and experience. It’s a real highlight to be working with this national team and be able to tap into their support for both myself and my clients.”

03 353 8008 | laneneave.co.nz/our-people/sarah-wadworth

Innovative design with lasting legacy
Jarrod Midgley | Senior Architect + Head of Department | Smart Alliances

With over two decades of architectural experience, Jarrod Midgley brings a wealth of expertise to his role as Senior Architect and Head of Department at Smart Alliances. An award-winning architect and New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) jury panel member, Jarrod’s ethos centres on shaping innovative designs that reflect his passion for buildings.

“One particular aspect of the NZIA awards judging criteria that resonates with me is the concept of ‘Enhancement of the human spirit.’ Beyond fulfilling basic requirements such as functionality, affordability, and compliance, buildings should have an X factor that enriches the human experience.”

Jarrod promotes a multidisciplinary approach to design, collaborating closely with skilled experts to ensure all aspects of the building design are carefully considered from concept to completion. This collaborative method ensures a streamlined process, with one point of contact, responsibility, and accountability throughout.

For Jarrod, awards are a testament to successful partnerships within a project. "To be able to enter a building for an award is a great sign that a project has gone well. It’s a wonderful opportunity to stand back and appreciate what can often be years of planning, hard work, and collaboration.”

With every project, Jarrod recognises the responsibility of managing his clients' investments and the environmental impact of his designs. Every building he creates is a testament to thoughtful, innovative design that aims to leave a lasting, positive impact.

03 579 6211 | smartalliances.co.nz

Unlocking development potential in Marlborough
Catherine Hammond | Director | Marlborough Resource Management Consultancy

Inspired by a passion for earth sciences and a desire to assist people with their projects, Catherine Hammond’s career in resource management and environmental planning is a testament to her dedication to helping others navigate the complexities of development. Catherine says her journey began with studying resource and environmental management.

“I got into this career as a planning profession because it is future-focused and deals with the natural and human dimensions of the world around us. I was interested in helping people with their developments and the field of earth sciences, which lead me to studying resource and environmental management. This field of work is concerned with the diversity of our communities, productivity of our economy, and vitality of our natural systems, so it really inspired me.”

Working as a planning consultant in Marlborough for nearly two decades, Catherine has built a reputation for providing expert guidance through the resource consent process. A significant milestone in her career was obtaining her Master’s in Resource Management and Environmental Planning with Honours. Most recently, she launched her own consultancy business, Marlborough RM, specialising in the preparation of resource consent applications for the full range of resource consent categories and taking these applications through the relevant regulatory process. Over the years, Catherine has successfully assisted thousands of developments. “People rely on me for guidance, and it’s hugely rewarding to help them achieve their goals,” she says. “I love to problem solve to find appropriate and successful outcomes that promote environmentally acceptable solutions.”

Her clientele primarily consists of individuals and businesses in Marlborough seeking Council approval for their developments. Catherine explains that her expertise lies in analysing and interpreting relevant legislation and planning documents, identifying potential challenges, and preparing applications. “The direction for my business is all about unlocking the potential for my clients’ developments and providing timely, reliable service. My experience, accompanied with my solution-based approach, ensures my clients’ developments are in good hands, and this continues to drive my passion for what I do.”

Catherine’s passion for her work continues to drive her forward. Her commitment to balancing environmental considerations with the aspirations of her clients makes her an invaluable resource for those navigating the complexities of planning and development. For anyone seeking professional guidance in Marlborough’s resource management landscape, Catherine Hammond offers expertise, dedication, and a future-focused perspective.

[email protected] | 0274281847

A journey from passion to paper
Diana Orchard | Architectural Designer + Director | Paper House Designs

Diana Orchard, architectural designer and director of Paper House Design, has spent over 15 years shaping homes and spaces that reflect her clients’ unique lifestyles. From a high school fascination with interior design to owning her own thriving business, Diana’s journey is a testament to her passion, skill, and determination.

Diana’s passion for design was ignited during her teenage years when she helped her parents renovate their home. “I realised I had a knack for visualising spaces,” Diana says.

This led her to study at Christchurch Polytechnic, where she earned a diploma in interior design. It was during her studies, while drafting bathroom and kitchen designs, that Diana discovered her love for architectural drawing.

Her first professional role in 2009 with a local architectural and engineering firm gave her a strong foundation. “Working across departments, from architecture to resource management, helped to build my knowledge and skillset.”

Later, as an in-house designer for a building company, she honed her practical knowledge by managing projects from concept to completion. In 2017, Diana launched Paper House Design to offer accessible, personalised solutions. The firm specialises in residential design, including new builds, renovations, and extensions, but also ventures into light commercial projects and even niche work like hazardous substance compliance plans. Her approach emphasises creating functional, future-ready designs tailored to her clients’ stories and needs. “Every project starts with hearing my client’s story and understanding how they live and what they envision for the present and future,” she says.

This client-centred philosophy ensures each design is practical, beautiful, and timeless.

Diana cites the success of Paper House Design as a major career milestone. One project that stands out in the beginning of her career involved drafting a coastal home renovation for a renowned designer, which taught her how to transform existing homes while preserving their charm. “It was an inspirational experience, and it reinforced my love for architecture’s transformative power.”

Beyond professional achievements, Diana finds fulfilment in the relationships she builds with clients, saying, “You work closely with them, sometimes for years, and seeing their joy when they step into their finished home is unmatched.” What drives Diana is the blend of creativity and collaboration. “Architectural design is about problem-solving and teamwork. Working with contractors, builders, and engineers to bring a vision to life is incredibly rewarding.”

Diana’s vision for Paper House Design remains clear: to make the design process as smooth and stress-free as possible. By focusing on initial research and understanding her clients deeply, she ensures her designs stand the test of time.

0274083152 | paperhousedesign.co.nz

Blending design and real estate for a unique perspective
Char Dudley | Residential Sales | Bayleys Real Estate Marlborough

Real estate is about ‘creating spaces that feel like home,’ says Char Dudley, a residential sales specialist at Bayleys Real Estate Marlborough. With a background in interior design and home staging, Char brings a unique perspective to the property market – one that seamlessly blends style, function, and vision. Her journey into the industry was a natural evolution as she began her career in home staging and interior design, working closely with agents to help clients present their homes in the best possible light.

“Real estate has always been a part of my life,” Char says. “My mum was an agent in Christchurch, so, over the years, I had the opportunity to get to know many real estate agents and gain insight into the industry. Starting out the way I did allowed me to build a solid foundation and understanding of what makes a property truly stand out.”

Her transition into sales at Bayleys was encouraged by Glenn Dick, a respected figure in the industry. With her design expertise and industry connections, stepping into property sales felt like the perfect next step. Since making the leap, Char says her journey has been filled with exciting milestones and rewarding moments. Her background in design has provided a strong foundation, helping clients visualise a property’s true potential.

“The transition was made easier thanks to the incredible support from my colleagues at Bayleys. They’re a great group who are incredibly helpful, and they’re a fun team, which makes work a really great place to be. Every day is a learning experience, and I love merging my design knowledge with real estate to help clients see what’s possible.”

A standout moment, she says, was closing her first sale. “This was especially meaningful because it was for two of my closest friends. It made the experience both incredibly special and a bit nerve-racking at the same time. The buyer had originally viewed the property at an open home but went on holiday shortly after. When they returned, they were still in love with the house, and everything just fell into place. It really highlighted how important consistent communication, and timing can be.”

For Char, real estate is about people, relationships, and the homes that tell their stories. “I love seeing how people bring their personalities into their homes. It’s inspiring, and now I get to help match people with spaces that suit their lifestyle and dreams. It’s an incredible feeling.”

021 986 891 | bayleys.co.nz

A trusted adviser to financial freedom
Phil Muir | Business Owner | NZ Home Loans Blenheim and Nelson Bays

For nearly two decades, Phil Muir has been providing financial guidance for homeowners and investors across the Top of the South. As the owner of NZ Home Loans (NZHL) offices in Blenheim and Nelson Bays, Phil’s approach to lending goes beyond brokering mortgages. It’s about empowering clients with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to achieve financial freedom faster.

“Numbers have always come naturally to me, and I love helping people,” says Phil. “That’s what drew me into the industry because the two go hand in hand. Money can be intimidating for some, but I enjoy making it approachable and understandable. Through NZ Home Loans, we simplify the complex, so clients feel confident in their financial progress and decisions.

Phil’s journey with NZHL began in 2005, not only as a consultant but also as a client. In 2011, he established the Blenheim office, and by 2017, he expanded into Nelson. “Setting up in Nelson was logical when the opportunity presented itself,” he says. “It’s been amazing to grow our reach and continue helping people build their financial futures.”

From starting out as a two-person team, Phil has grown to five qualified advisors plus support staff. Over the years, Phil’s work has earned recognition, including awards at the Westpac Marlborough Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. “It’s always nice to be acknowledged among so many outstanding businesses,” Phil says. However, his greatest reward is seeing the progress his clients make. “I’ve worked with some clients now for nearly 20 years, watching them go from buying their first home to owning multiple properties. It’s incredibly fulfilling to help them achieve those milestones.”

Phil and his team provide more than just home loans – they offer guidance every step of the way, using tools unique to NZHL to track and plan financial progress. “We’re not just brokers. We stay with our clients until they’re debt-free. We provide tailored advice, exclusive online tools, and ongoing support, which is especially important given the new financial regulations.”

Beyond his professional success, Phil is embedded in his local community, he set up the Blenheim Parkrun, an international free community run, and he also chairs the Awatere ECE Hub Community Trust, which was established to rebuild earthquake-damaged ECE facilities.

With a focus on financial freedom and a commitment to his clients, Phil Muir and his team continue to inspire confidence, one home loan at a time, and now manage over $250 million dollars in home lending for their clients.

0800 332 837 | nzhl.co.nz