Meet the whānau
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Dr. Hyrum Martin
Dentist, BDS (Otago)
Hyrum combines his clinical expertise with a commitment to innovation, ensuring that every mouthguard meets the highest dental and regulatory standards. With a keen eye for product quality and a focus on customer acquisition, he brings both care and creativity to the business. -
Vernice Hakaraia
Operations Manager
With a passion for efficiency and a focus on customer care, Vernice ensures that every step of the process runs smoothly—from production and manufacturing to marketing and order fulfillment. Her dedication to delivering quality service and connecting with customers drives the Mana Waha experience. -
Ria Apiata
Managing Director, MBA., BBusOp., DipLang
Ria is the driving force behind the vision and growth of Mana Waha Mouthguards. With a background in business strategy, sustainability, and partnerships, she oversees operations with a focus on long-term success and community impact.
Why Mana Waha
Mana Waha was born from what we kept seeing on the sidelines and in our communities. Too many of our kids weren’t wearing mouthguards. They didn’t fit properly, they were uncomfortable, kids couldn’t talk — so they ended up not being worn at all.
We got tired of seeing preventable injuries and a system where quality mouthguards were only accessible to those who could afford dentist visits or knew where to go. One child at a time wasn’t working for our whānau, kura, or clubs.
So we came together to do something about it. By working directly with schools and sports clubs, Mana Waha makes mouthguards easier to access, better to wear, and available to all tamariki. It’s about protecting our kids, their smiles, and their future — because looking after our people is everyone’s responsibility.
Contact us
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