about us

Dive into the world of whales and connect with nature, yourself, and like-minded ocean enthusiasts.

we.are.tohorā is a dedicated environmentally conscious organisation that is focused on raising awareness about whales, the ocean and the environment by offering immersive events and retreats, connecting people back to nature and themselves. The we.are.tohorā team and our events are inspired by whales and rooted in passion and the urge to create a better world. We aspire to create a world inspired by whales and led by community and cooperation – where whales, the environment and people are valued, respected and protected.

we.are.tohorā = we.are.whales

'tohorā' = (Māori, noun) an all-embracing term for whales

There exists a common bond between individuals and whales - be it through personal experiences, professional involvement, or spiritual connections.

Julia Graeter | Founder & CEO

| Speaker & Thought Leader in Whaleness, B.A. Information designer, whale researcher, facilitator |

"My heart belongs to whales and people. Being a whale lover my whole life, living in Germany, it seemed impossible to me working with them. 2019 I left Germany for a yoga teacher training in Bali and I chose to come to New Zealand afterwards, a country surrounded by the deep ocean and whales. I believe whales have the power to touch hearts and create a change in us. But it is the people, the community, which is able to create a change for our blue planet. With that in mind I bring people together, with the love and passion for whales and our blue home and educate about the power of WHALENESS - wellbeing creadet by whales - for the planet and the people. My goal is happiness, health and freedom for the people and the whales. Let's create a change together!"

more about Julia

Ivan Ujdur | Volunteer

| Builder & Creative |

I've always been a bit of a wild child/nature lover, without truely realising the importance of natures inhabitants, the role they play in our ecosystems, and the profound influence these diverse ecosystems and fascinating lifeforms have had on me throughout my life. The understanding and connection to whales being a "big" one. Bringing people together to share this deeper understanding of self and surroundings, and the effect it can have on us all through connection and conservation, is so important. I am proud to be a part of the We are Tohora community, it is the perfect place to combine passion, knowledge and self-awareness.

Gloria Harvey | Volunteer

| Statistical and Data analyst |

"I am constantly inspired by the power of nature to connect, nurture and heal us. Humans are not apart from it, and to protect the environment is to protect ourselves. As humans, our power to make positive change is limitless, and this starts by creating communities with shared hope and vision. One of the greatest examples of this is the people-led movement that resulted in the banning of whaling in 1986; together, we can make a difference! I am so excited to be a part of the we.are.tohorā community, I can't wait to see what we can do together!"

Let's unite and share our passion to make a positive impact.

Ready to JOIN the party?

Get in contact with us if you'd like to join as a volunteer and share your skills and passion for whales:

Get in contact now