Dr Amanda Bell

Mandy has extensive experience across environmental leadership, agribusiness and governance, with a strong focus on freshwater, land stewardship and community-led action. A trained veterinarian, Mandy brings a practical, systems-based understanding of how land use, ecological health and community wellbeing intersect.

As a co-founder and former Chair of WAI Wānaka, Mandy played a pivotal role in establishing the organisation’s collaborative, catchment-wide approach to freshwater protection in the Upper Clutha. During her tenure as Chair, she helped guide WAI from a volunteer-led initiative into a respected regional organisation, strengthening governance, securing strategic funding, and building trusted partnerships with scientists, landowners, community groups and government agencies.

Beyond WAI Wānaka, Mandy has contributed to national science and freshwater leadership, including serving on the Government’s Freshwater Leaders Group and holding governance roles within primary industry. Alongside her governance work, she and her husband operate Criffel Station near Wānaka, where sustainable land management and innovation are central to their farming business.

Now an Emerita Trustee, Mandy continues to support WAI Wānaka through strategic insight, mentorship and advocacy. Her leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to place, collaboration and practical action, with a strong belief that informed, mobilised communities are essential to protecting freshwater and ecosystems for future generations.