The Nugget: Dave Gibson

Dave Gibson is never happier than when on a boat fishing for snapper - even in big seas.

Well, after navigating the turbulent waters of global investment banking for over 20 years, a bit of rough out on the briny is no big thing.

Working on big deals taught him some top-notch business skills. It also taught him the importance of having fun.

So these days, in addition to his own NZ deal practice - DG Advisory, Dave loves spending his time investing in and starting great NZ companies.

Dave is not massive on showing emotion, (his words!) but his eyes light up when he talks about these. (And no, rumours of his smile being photoshopped in for this image are categorically untrue). Companies like; Harker Herbals, Jess’ Underground Kitchen and Lewis Road Creamery, plus his own start-ups; Waiheke Brewing Company (brewers of Heke beer), e-commerce platform Sidehustle, and his favourite baby, Penguin Amphibious Boats, pictured here.

The Penguin’s tagline is ‘boating just got easier’ and with an integrated trailer built in, that Dave designed, it’s easy to see how.

It’s light enough to pull by hand on land, and once in the water, will happily take you to the best fishing spots - and keep the brats buzzing on a bit of biscuiting.

He’s already sold 30 and has big plans for ‘Jack’ as he’s called it.

Keep an eye out later this year for his 5.8m bigger brother which has an electric front wheel but can still be trailered on its back wheels.

Dave loves Jack, often spending nights with him in the garage lovingly talking to him like a son.

We know this because Dave’s very lovely and understanding wife, two daughters, cat and dog (both also female) told us.

Forever curious, it’s clear Dave has a passion for great Kiwi companies that create things that people can use every day.

Which is why he also loves our clothes. From the boardroom to the boat, we’ve got gear that looks great day in, day out. Like the Shoki shirt, and tan Charlie Chinos (both $120 or 3 for $300) he’s wearing, as well as the suede Derby shoes he’s left behind here (The Richards, $230 or grab 2 pairs for $333).

With all these business interests and family time - plus various board memberships, and a just-completed leadership role with a ‘serious book club’ where he and his mates ‘discuss the big issues of the day’, Dave’s a busy guy.

Not too busy to fit in answering a few questions for us though.

Good man. Answers ahoy!