Matt grew up in Moerewa and has whakapapa links to Ngāti Kahu, Ngai Tahu, Ngāti Tarara and Ngai Pākeha. He has spent time in Dunedin as well as Tokerau Beach before moving to Titahi Bay with his partner Chelsea and their son Eru.

Mat has a lifelong love of the moana, being a keen surfer, diver, swimmer and sailor.

Matt is a Chartered Accountant, with a BA Philosophy and BCom International Business. He joins Te Ohu Kaimoana as a Senior Accountant, following four years at Te Puni Kokiri and previous business advisory mahi in Findex/Crowe Horwarth as well as PKF Kaitaia.