Dion Aupouri-Akuhata (Commercial Kina Diver/Coasty Kidds) - ALTBAYS Table Talk #262

ALTBAYS

Are you a kina fan? Did you know that the global kina industry is worth half a billion dollars a year? Dion is a commercial kina diver passionate about the moana. He was a part of the TV show ‘Spiky Gold Hunters’ and alongside his partner Reremoana, runs the successful Coasty Kidds, which is all about teaching the next generation how to look after our environment. Join Leo Magri and the surfer/teacher Sean Butler for this top chat at the ALTBAYS Table Talk. Watch it here now and send your questions!

Show 262- Dion Aupouri-Akuhata (Commercial Kina Diver/Coasty Kidds)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Sean Butler and Leo Magri)

Dion Aupouri-Akuhata isn't just a commercial kina diver; he's deeply connected to the ocean and its treasures. Raised on Aotearoa New Zealand's coastal waters, Dion's journey into commercial diving stemmed from a childhood fascination with the sea.

His passion for free-diving, spearfishing, and surfing led him to admire spearfishing champion Dwane Herbert, eventually inspiring him to take the plunge into commercial kina diving around 2018. However, Dion's path took an unexpected turn when he became a cast member of the real-life action series, "Spiky Gold Hunters."

Despite the risks and the spotlight, Dion remains committed to showcasing the challenges and rewards of commercial diving while advocating for water safety. With a family history deeply rooted in commercial diving, Dion faces the perils of his profession with unwavering resolve, from near-blackouts to encounters with Great White Sharks.

Beyond his exploits in the ocean, Dion is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and passion with others. Through free-diving safety sessions and educational programs like "Tamariki of the Tides," he empowers coastal communities with the skills to navigate the waters safely.

Dion also shares his adventures through his lifestyle blog, Coasty_Kidds, on Facebook and Instagram, as he explores the depths of the ocean, embraces the challenges of his profession, and champions water safety for all.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.