Oliver Wade is the Principal Coastal Scientist with Marlborough District Council, specializing in applying science to inform coastal and marine policy and management decisions. His projects span from seabed habitat mapping and sediment impact assessments to advancing ecosystem-based management tools for shellfish restoration. He has over 20 years experience of working with applied science on coastal, marine and fisheries issues in small communities across Europe and Aotearoa/ New Zealand. His current role integrates research, monitoring and stakeholder engagement to shape science and policy in the Marlborough Coastal Marine Area.