Meet the team
Arrianna Mathieson - Founder/CEO/Tour Manager
In May 2023, at 54, Arrianna underwent weight loss surgery in Istanbul, Turkey, sharing her journey with transparency. Leveraging her leadership and business expertise, she began helping others embark on similar paths. Safety is her top priority, partnering exclusively with highly accredited hospitals known for their experience, reputation, and results. Committed to continuous improvement, Arrianna strives to enhance services for the best outcomes for clients and their families. At AAJ, she is dedicated to building a team that reflects her values, work ethic, and authenticity, honoring the trust of clients and their whānau who choose AAJ to guide and support them.
Sarah Bennett - Tour Manager
In November 2024, Sarah Bennett made the life-changing decision to undergo surgery with the support of Arrianna’s Assisted Journeys, traveling with her husband and 4-month-old baby. A mother of three with strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills, she quickly became an inspiring figure within the AAJ community. Now a Tour Leader and Manager, Sarah is dedicated to guiding others through their transformative journeys with confidence and care.
Shannon Hall - Tour Manager
At AAJ, we embody the motto go the way – lead the way. In June 2024, Shannon from Whangarei took charge of her health by joining the June AAJ journey, accompanied by her 68-year-old father and sister. Since then, she has authentically shared her highs, lows, and the realness of her experience. With her leadership, organisational skills, and genuine desire to help others, Shannon joined the AAJ team as a Tour Leader and Agent.
Wayne Hill - Tour Manager
In March 2025, Wayne Hill from the Waikato took a courageous step to transform his health and wellbeing through surgery with Arrianna’s Assisted Journeys. With a strong background in business ownership and customer service management, Wayne brings leadership, empathy, and a genuine people-first approach to the AAJ team. A dedicated husband and proud father of three adult children two sons and a daughter. Wayne is known for his quick wit, great sense of humour, and the positivity he brings to everyone around him. During his own journey, his laughter and upbeat spirit lifted the entire tour group. Now, as a Tour Manager, Wayne continues to guide others through their transformative experiences with compassion, understanding, and professionalism, truly embodying AAJ’s core values of being safe, supported, and stress-free.
Mustafa Adiyaman - Operations Manager
Mustafa, a lifelong resident of Turkey with extensive tourism and business expertise, joined AAJ in July 2024, bringing his expertise in local knowledge and experience to our leadership team and tour groups. His dedication, professionalism, exceptional English skills, and natural ability to ensure care and safety make him invaluable. Mustafa’s contributions have made every AAJ Tour experience positively memorable for patients and their support people alike.
Jaz Puni - Travel Manager
Jaz, a former major airline employee, expertly handles corporate travel needs with her in-depth “airline speak” knowledge and problem-solving skills. As a March 2024 AAJ Tour participant, she understands clients’ unique needs and goes above and beyond to ensure smooth journeys. A dedicated full-time professional and mum of three, Jaz supports AAJ clients tirelessly, working international hours, tracking tours, and resolving issues promptly to guarantee seamless travel experiences.
Marina Davis - Tour Assistant & Vibe creator
In March 2025, internationally recognised Polynesian singing icon, songwriter, and performer Marina Davis embarked on her own transformative journey with Arrianna’s Assisted Journeys and she hasn’t stopped sharing her love for the experience since. Known for her powerhouse voice, infectious laughter, and radiant energy, Marina filled her tour with belly laughs and unforgettable moments.Deeply passionate about helping others elevate their lives through better health and self-belief, Marina now joins the AAJ team as Arrianna’s Tour Assistant & Positivity Ambassador. With her signature sparkle, warmth, and joyful spirit, she’s dedicated to ensuring every client’s journey is one of connection, confidence, and celebration.
Behind every successful journey is a team who cares — guiding you with expertise, supporting you with compassion, and standing by your side from consultation to recovery.
