Matakana Collective is for women-led businesses in Matakana and the surrounding areas. We’re not your typical networking group with rigid rules, 60-second pitches, or mandatory referrals. Instead we’ve created a relaxed environment where women come together frequently for events to meet one another, listen to speakers, and build genuine connections. It’s about forging a sense of community, not following a script.
Our aim is to make local businesses more visible while removing the awkwardness of self-promotion and sales pitches. We celebrate the many incredible women-led businesses in our area, offering opportunities to connect in meaningful ways. Whether you’re working remotely, new to the area, or simply haven’t had the chance to meet others in the local business scene, Matakana Collective provides a space to get involved, grow your network, and make your business known. We’re also planning to expand with workshops, podcasts, and more ways to collaborate in the future.
Supporting local businesses strengthens our community. By shopping locally and working together, we can foster growth and create a thriving, sustainable local economy. This collective is about building something bigger than individual businesses – it’s about creating a supportive network that benefits us all.
Matakana Collective began with a chance meeting between four women in business – Tayla from Dynamic Digital, Emma from Good Thunder, Laura from In Place Solutions, and Ali from Willow Lodge. What started as a casual connection quickly became a practical way to share advice, exchange ideas, and support each other’s goals.We recognised the benefits of working together as a community. This collaboration strengthened our businesses, created new opportunities, and highlighted the potential to build a network that could support other women in Matakana and the surrounding areas.
Emma leads @goodthunder_nz, a Matakana-based creative studio. We offer detailed, innovative, and audience-focused designs, websites, packaging... and more. Backed by her incredibly talented team, Emma ensures every project is both intuitive and conceptually strong – achieving the goals they set out to. As one of the founders of Matakana Collective, Emma is personally committed to supporting local entrepreneurs. She believes in enhancing local growth through collaboration, knowing that our collective success strengthens the entire community.
Tayla one is the creative force behind @dynamicdigital_nz With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Tayla brings a unique blend of digital marketing expertise and professional photography skills to the table. Tayla is dedicated to helping businesses elevate their online presence by crafting compelling content and strategic solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Whether it’s capturing the perfect shot or designing a custom digital strategy, Tayla’s approach is always hands-on, intuitive, and driven by a desire to see her clients succeed.
Meet Laura from In Place Solutions. She's transforming businesses with smart, people-focused solutions. With expertise in digital transformations, project management, and change management, she’s all about making technology and process work simply and effectively for your business. Passionate about creating meaningful connections, and always up for a good laugh with great people. All about business process management but making it make sense. @inplacesolutions
Ali is dedicated to community and connecting women in business. With expertise in people & culture and marketing consulting, she helps brands thrive. Ali is the owner of @willowlodgewarkworth offering serene brand shoot locations for local businesses. She hopes to create a space for mentorship, guiding and inspiring the women of the next generation. Ali is committed to building inclusive communities and inspiring collaboration.
