Wayne leads our distribution strategy and planning. Establishing the most efficient and effective ways of getting Wai Mānuka into the hands of customers both locally and globally is a very challenging and exciting part of the business for Wayne. He feels that it is so important to be part of a team that can openly communicate in all areas of the business and have the confidence to know they all have each other’s backs which is an essential part of 3 Māori Boys. “ There is no doubt that our brotherhood will last forever and will still be strong long after Wai Mānuka”. This is one of the core parts of the business and is something that helps the team to confidently move forward every day.

Pepeha
Ko Hikurangi te maunga
Ko Waiapu te awa
Ko Ngāti Porou te iwi
Ko Te Whanau a Pokai te hapu
Ko Tikapa te marae
Ko Wayne Atkins tōku ingoa.

Background
Wayne was born and raised in Wellington to Eruini Atkins and Claire McLeod and moved to Whakatāne as a teenager. He has 5 older siblings, 3 brothers and 2 sisters. Wayne was brought up to understand the importance of kindness, empathy, health and hardwork but also making sure you have fun.

After finishing school Wayne served in the New Zealand Navy as a chef. His time in the Navy taught him how to work as a team, how to be an effective leader and the importance of discipline.The highlight of his career was being part of the New Zealand Peacekeeping Group in Bougainville where he served on the HMNZS Manawanui.

His first passion is education. Wayne completed a Bachelor of Education which led him to be a primary school teacher for last 19 years in both Auckland and Whakatāne. He believes that it is essential for children to have strong role models in all areas of their lives. He still remembers his own teachers that helped him to understand that dreams are important and that you can do anything if you put your mind to it - something that he follows today and tries to instill in his own students.

Today he works both as a teacher and in Wai Mānuka and is focused on building the brand Wai Mānuka as the most premium non-alcoholic beverage in the world.