Dr Keri Wikitera is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Hospitality and Tourism. Her Māori tribal affiliation is Tūhourangi, Ngāti Whakaue of Te Arawa. Keri's personal and academic interests are specifically positioned within promoting and enhancing indigenous tourism development, intercultural exchange, Māori cultural identity, Māori economic development and management studies.

Dr Hirini Moko Mead is a prominent Māori writer and commentator. Author of over 70 books, papers and articles, he was Foundation Professor of Māori Studies at Victoria University and was closely involved in establishing the Māori university Te Whare Wānangā o Awanuiārangi in Whakatāne.

A scholar of rare expertise in Māori language and culture, Hirini was made a Distinguished Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2007 for his services to Māori and to education.