About Us
Heaven on the Planet was established by the world-renowned oceanographer Prof Kerry Black of New Zealand. He was later joined by Moira Healey who is involved in most aspects of property operation and bookings and by Greg Wolff who purchased part ownership.
Dr Black says, “HOT Planet is a great place to live and surf. This property is for sustained eco-tourism and conservation. It’s a great place to follow three of my most important personal goals of encouraging research, helping the environment and overcoming community poverty.”
Local villagers are doing the construction, have jobs on the property and still work on the land
Prof Black says, “The villagers had no previous experience in the hotel industry, so it has been a journey of discovery to get the place running smoothly and effectively for our guests. I am very pleased with progress and the benefits to the locals.”
“It is a remote location and so we are working to combine everything into one unspoiled location to entertain our guests – relaxation, adventure sports, culture, marine eco-tourism, voluntary research and community poverty alleviation”, Prof Black says.
Short Background
Moira, a Kiwi, was formerly a legal assistant who is now in charge of the bookings for Heaven and she participates in the management of most aspects of the property. She loves Indonesia, massages and the warm waters of the Bay. Moira is a keen scuba diver.
Greg, an Australian from Bundaberg, works in the field of Environmental Health. He has knowledge in Environment Impact and Community Issues and has undertaken several Public Health projects for AusAID. He is currently in the South Pacific assisting the locals with water and sanitation projects. Greg is a long-term surfer and has travelled extensively.
Greg’s commitment to his present work may present an opportunity for someone looking for a lifestyle change. Greg is willing to discuss the sale of his share in HOTPlanet as he ponders where his life journey is taking him. Greg said, “Being part of HOTPlanet has fulfilled a dream however my present work in the aid & development sector is becoming a growing commitment that is diverting my time and energy away from HOTPlanet. If HOTPlanet can be part of your dreams, talk to me.”
Kerry is an Australian who has lived in NZ for over 20 years and many people think he is a Kiwi! Kerry is best known internationally for his research into artificial offshore reefs for surfing and coastal protection and for his development of technology to produce higher quality surfing pools (www.surfpools.co.nz). Kerry was formerly Professor of Oceanography at Waikato University in New Zealand and was the chief scientist and managing director of two New Zealand environmental consulting companies. He fell in love with Indonesia in the early 70’s in Bali and now “lives the surfing dream” in Lombok for several months each year.
HOT Planet evolved after an NZAID assignment by Prof Black and Dr Joseph Mathew to teach local people around Ekas Bay about aquaculture for new income opportunities and to help save the coral reefs. | | | | |