Defined by clarity, grounded in values & focused on what works
Our values
Community-Led Impact – We centre the voices, knowledge, and leadership of communities, empowering people to lead their own solutions and shape systems that serve their needs, priorities, and futures.
Collaboration – We believe collective solutions come from respectful, inclusive partnerships.
Strategic Thinking – We bring clarity, structure, and evidence-based planning to complex challenges.
Equity & Inclusion – We champion diverse perspectives and work to ensure fair access and representation.
Adaptability & Innovation – We embrace change and apply creative thinking to build better futures.
Sustainability – We commit to lasting impact by embedding environmental, social, and systemic sustainability in every project.
Our story
We believe meaningful change begins with co-created, locally informed approaches that are both practical and enduring — from ocean to peak.
Often, organisations and governments lack the time, tools, or capacity to co-design solutions from the ground up. Planning is accelerated, community input reduced — simply because involving people takes time. As a result, disaster strategies can become top-down, missing vital local perspectives and leaving gaps in preparedness and recovery.
That’s why Ocean to Peak Consulting was created. We align with global frameworks, like those of the United Nations, while embedding solutions into local systems, policies, and decision-making. The result? Practical strategies that are scalable, sustainable, and grounded in the realities of those they’re meant to serve.
Meet the Founder
Jess Donaldson
My journey into this work began early — as a teenager volunteering overseas, drawn to people, culture, and community development.
Originally from Ireland, I became increasingly passionate about disaster relief — which was a bit unusual in a place where disasters weren’t exactly common! That passion led me to study social work and work across several continents in community development, climate adaptation, and disaster resilience.
A love of cultures, people and experiencing different ways of life has also taken me to over 40 countries — from solo adventures, volunteer trips to group holidays.
Since living in Aotearoa, my purpose became even clearer. I found myself grounded in inclusive, practical disaster and emergency planning — work that brings together systems thinking, local knowledge, and a drive for equity. Since living here, I came across a Māori proverb that speaks to the heart of why I do this work:
He aha te mea nui o te ao?
He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.
What is the most important thing in the world? It is the people, it is the people, it is the people.
It’s a powerful reminder that systems only work when they work for everyone — and why inclusion, integrity, and impact drive everything I do.
Find out more about my experience & expertise on LinkedIn.
