Marc Handerson

Ahi Kaa, Owner and Head of Operations

Marc is a co-owner of Motu Ahi, alongside his brothers. He is the steady force at the heart of its day to day life. Having lived on the island for the past two years, Marc embodies the role of ahi kaa, the one who keeps the home fires burning. As the leader on ground, Marc ensures that everything at Motu Ahi runs smoothly. From overseeing staff, to managing daily operations, he carries the responsibility of keeping the vision alive and thriving. His presnece brings concistency, care, and a deep sense of guardianship to the space. Through his dedication, the island remains a welcoming destination for travelers and a place where the spirit of the land continues to be nurtured.

Tama Cowan

Te Papa Kaa, Pacific Unity & Cultural Relations Director

Francis is our trusted go to man in Tahiti, holding a deep connection to the people, land, and wairua of the islands he calls home. Guided by a powerful vision of Pacific unity, Francis is devoted to creating bridges between cultures, strengthening community, and uplifting shared wisdom, wairua, and ancestral knowledge. He see’s Motu Ahi as more than a destination, but rather a base of restored beloning for indigenous peoples across Te Papa and her foundation all pacific nations lie upon. He acts upon a hope that runs deep of a togtherness within the pacific region.

Tihau Bishop

The Ocean Advisor; Moananui a Kiwa Support

Ia Orana, I am David Grodon Tihau Bishop, the third of five children of Turi Teinaki Heremanate and Lionel Gordon Bishop. I’ve spent much of my life living and working across the world, building an extensive career as a senior civil engineer. My experience spans major international environments including Melbourne, Sydney, Beijing, Tokyo, Indonesia, Aotearoa, The Cook Islands, Hawai’i, Tahiti and the motu of Mooera. Now stepping away from fast paced work like, I am grounded in a deeper purpose, supporting and strengthening the pacific whānau. Bringing knowledge and lived experience to help navigate the growing impacts of global climate change across our islands nations.

Ngati Rangi Ki Ohakune, maruuru, meitaki ma’ata, nga mihinui

Rei Anderson

Te Reo Matihiko o te Motu – Digital Voice of the Island

Rei Anderson is the digital voice and creative force of Motu Ahi, responsible for shaping how the island is seen, felt, and experienced in the online world. Through social media, website management, and communications, Rei weaves together imagery, words, and design to create a living digital reflection of the motu, one that carries its wairua, stories, and essence beyond the screen.