Board of Directors

Olivia Atkins

Chairperson & Director

From the moment you meet Olivia, it’s clear why so many people trust her to sell their property. Combining a friendly, approachable manner with expert marketing, strong communication skills, and a genuine drive to achieve exceptional results, Olivia brings professionalism and energy to every transaction.

Now in her second decade in real estate, Olivia’s passion for people and property remains stronger than ever. Introduced to the industry at a young age by her successful parents, Gary and Yolanda, she developed an early understanding of the business and a lifelong appreciation for home ownership and property investment.

Olivia’s expertise spans a wide range of property types, including lifestyle and luxury homes, investment properties, rural and semi-rural homes, developments, subdivisions, and townhouses. Her extensive personal and professional experience allows her to guide clients with confidence and clarity.

An integral part of an award-winning office, Olivia was named #1 Agent for Waitakere Village in the Rate My Agent Awards 2026. She also proudly serves as the Chairperson of the First National Real Estate NZ Board of Directors.

Based in the Waitākere Ranges with her husband Ethan and their daughter, Olivia is committed to providing a supportive, family-style service and achieving the very best results for her clients.

Shawn Gibbon

Vice Chair & Director

Over the 17 years I have been in Real Estate in the Taranaki district, nothing has really changed. The market may move up and down but the result is the same.

All our clients want when moving is to be well informed on what is happening in the market at the time of their move and for the process to be simple and stress free.

At First National Mills & Gibbon, you will receive exactly that. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the market and making the process easy. So if you are looking to move, give myself or one of the team a call and make your next move an enjoyable one.

James Mackay

Director

James Mackay is the Principal and Co-Owner of Golden Bay First National and has been part of the Golden Bay property landscape for over 15 years. With a Bachelor of Commerce in Valuation and Property Management from Lincoln University, James brings a strong academic foundation and a practical, all-round understanding of real estate.

Based in a smaller town, James enjoys the variety his role offers, working across residential, commercial, and rural sectors. His broad experience allows him to deliver well-rounded advice and service to clients across the community.

Outside of real estate, James is a senior member of the Tākaka Volunteer Fire Brigade and is passionate about serving his local community. He also enjoys diving and fishing in the beautiful waters of Golden Bay.

Proud to live and work in Golden Bay, James is committed to representing his community and colleagues with integrity and insight.

James Mullins

Director

James Mullins, has been a proud and passionate supporter of the First National network for over 17 years, consistently marketing himself and the brand as the best in the business. In early 2024, James and his partner Lynette took full ownership of First National Progressive, stepping into an exciting new chapter with bold plans for the future.

A strong believer in the power of the First National cooperative, James sees a position on the New Zealand Board as an opportunity to actively contribute to the continued success and evolution of the brand he champions.

Based in a purpose-built office in Christchurch, First National Progressive is a second-generation family business with a deeply loyal and experienced team. The office is home to 18 dedicated staff members, boasting a combined industry experience of over 150 years, eight of whom have been with the company for more than a decade. The business proudly features an award-winning property management division and a boutique sales team.

In May 2025, the office will celebrate its 25th anniversary—a significant milestone that reflects both its enduring presence in the community and its commitment to excellence.

James brings not only industry expertise but also a long-term vision for growth, culture, and innovation within the First National network.