Marika Kingan

Executive Assistant

Marika came to New Zealand back in 2002 for what she thought would be 24 months. Now, with two Kiwi children she couldn’t ever imagine living back in South Africa.

It’s the people, freedom, relaxed atmosphere and lifestyle that she loves. Of course beautiful surroundings and easy access to the Abel Tasman National Park is an added bonus.

When she lived in hometown Cape Town she used to enjoy camping and tramping but says you always had to drive five or six hours to enjoy nature. Now it is at her doorstep and she loves it.
Marika studied at Cape Technikon and worked as an executive assistant in town planning and for a textile company in South Africa. In New Zealand she initially managed the Victoria University Foundation, the funding arm of the university.

She is now Project Janszoon’s executive assistant and is also the administrator for the Nelson Tasman Cycle Trails Trust. Marika regularly enjoys visits to the park with work and her family and says she is learning so much about New Zealand’s native plants and animals as part of the job.