Meet our new Trustee: Shannon Bray

Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m a landscape architect and the managing partner of Wayfinder, a small landscape architecture business based in Hastings. After graduating in the ‘90s, I spent nearly a decade living in the UK before returning to New Zealand in 2004. Having never lived in Hawke’s Bay before, my partner Sue and I chose to settle here for the sunshine—and the wine! We currently live in a 1921 Chapman-Taylor designed home in Havelock North, but we’re in the early stages of planning a new build on Joll Road.

What inspired you to become a Trustee?
Ever since moving to Hawke’s Bay, I’ve loved spending time in Te Mata Park. A few years ago, I started noticing some great improvements—like the new signage and the Park’s expansion through the One Giant Chance campaign, and it made me interested in what was going on behind the scenes.

In my work as a landscape architect, I’ve helped plan and develop many public parks, including Hawke’s Bay’s Regional Parks, and I felt I could contribute some of that experience to the Trust.

What are you looking forward to contributing?
My strengths lie in strategic thinking. Over the past few years as an Aspiring Trustee, I’ve been reviewing the Park’s strategic plan, Ngā Tipuna. I’m excited to wrap up that work soon and dive deeper into implementing the strategies we’ve developed—particularly finding the right balance between community outcomes and the Park’s environmental, landscape, and cultural values.

What’s your favourite spot in Te Mata Park?
Honestly? Sitting on the deck at Peak House with a Tigermilk and a chicken burger!

But I also love walking the yellow track (Karaka Wander), and the rocky area just above Webbs Bush—which I call “the Trolls.” I’m also fond of the seat halfway up the steep section of the blue track (Rongokako Trail). It’s the perfect place to admire the view—and catch my breath.

Anything else you’d like to add?
Te Mata Park is an incredible gift to our community, and I love seeing so many people enjoying it in different ways. It’s a place where people can connect with nature, breathe fresh air, and get their exercise fix—that’s something worth protecting and enhancing.