Fostering technological exchange and innovation across the Asia Pacific region, facilitating the advancement of smart, resilient cities, their infrastructure, and economies through technological exchange, innovation, and enterprise.

About APSTA

A not-for-profit New Zealand incorporated Society open to all science, technology and innovation minded people. The Society welcomes members in New Zealand and Asia Pacific from experienced in Natural Science, Medical and Health Science, Engineering and Technology Science, Agricultural Science and Social Science.

Meet The Team

Richard Christie

Mr. Christie is principal consultant at Christie Consultants Ltd since 2020, as an agribusiness consultant and company governance. Richard's career spans business strategy, new business development, science commercialisation, new products, and environmental management, principally in large New Zealand agribusinesses. He has been involved in company governance for over 20 years, and is a Chartered Member of NZ Institute of Directors. Currently he is independent chairman or director of two agri-tech companies with a high focus on research & development, and export markets. He also sits on the Lincoln University Council Farms Committee.

Richard holds a B.Ag.Sc from Lincoln University and an MBA from the University of Otago.

Jinn Chen

Ms Chen is a seasoned professional specializing in technology transfer and cross-border investment services. Her firm, a registered Technology Transfer Agency in China, facilitates innovation commercialization across the Asia-Pacific region. Her consultancy fosters strategic partnerships with financial institutions, research bodies, universities and industries; promoting technology transfer, investment opportunities, and cross-border collaboration. Committed to sustainable development, Jinn actively supports APSTA’s mission to advance technological progress for societal and economic benefit.

Jinn holds a Master’s in Civil Engineering form NZ ,an MBA from China, alongside qualifications in quantity surveying and electrical engineering. With expertise in project management, cost analysis, and asset management, she has led major resource and property development projects in New Zealand and China.

George Hooper

Dr. Hooper brings extensive experience in the technical and commercial aspects of the energy and natural resource sectors, with a focus on science, engineering, and commercial strategy. He has led innovative programs in resource delineation, technology pathways, process engineering, and feasibility assessments, as well as forefront environmental and infrastructure initiatives. His expertise in emerging technologies and engineering risk management has driven effective technology transfer and commercialization in large-scale development programs.

A Fellow of Engineer’s New Zealand and IChemE, UK, and a Companion of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Dr. Hooper has held leadership roles with the New Zealand Earthquake Commission, the Centre for Advanced Engineering, industry associations, and academic advisory boards. With a Ph.D. from the University of Melbourne and a BE (Hons) from the University of Canterbury, he is a leading voice in science-business collaboration.