About Us
The humans behind the matchmaking
We believe that everyone deserves a chance to find romantic connection, yet our research tells us that many singles have had negative experiences using today's impersonal dating models.
Compatico is built on the psychology of smart profiling, and intuitive, personal connections. No more swiping. No more fake profiles. No more painstaking dates with unsuitable people (thankfully!).
But we're more than just a matchmaking service. We're transforming the entire singles experience. We know that showing up as your best self in your relationships requires you to have a positive relationship with yourself first. That’s why our vision is to create a community where you can become physically, mentally and emotionally healthier, meet inspiring people, do fun things, and yes, potentially meet a romantic partner. Dating is just one part of a bigger journey of self-investment.
Every member undergoes police checks and vetting calls, ensuring you're meeting people who are as serious and intentional as you are. Our events span from relaxed community gatherings to fitness classes, workshops on confidence and communication, and curated experiences designed to create genuine connection. We're building a membership people are genuinely excited to be part of, regardless of whether they've found their match yet.
With members New Zealand-wide, we're proving that investing in your social wellbeing and personal growth naturally creates the conditions for meaningful relationships to flourish.
Elise Dalrymple-Keast
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CEO
I’ve been in the business of managing relationships since the very beginning: I started my marketing agency, Brandsitters, at 23 and spent 6+ years working with brilliant small business owners running law firms, SaaS startups, property developers, and purpose-driven brands. On top of that, I write a newsletter called Business-Minded where I connect with a small but engaged subscriber base every single week.
I’m very passionate about two things: business and people. I’m motivated by making the world a better place by solving important societal problems. When the opportunity to take the helm of Compatico came up, I knew that this was the right fit for me. Genuine human connection and community are precious commodities in today’s tech-first, isolated world - and personally I think the world needs a whole lot more of it.
I feel both excited and privileged to lead Compatico to be the best community, and dating experience for singles 30+.
Jo Stredder
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Professional Matchaker
Compatico Matching
“I am passionate about making people feel supported as they navigate their future and Compatico aligns with my belief that you focus on the person first. The rest will follow. I have learned that true and meaningful connections only happen when one is feeling good about oneself. And when that happens, the heart opens.”
Jo Stredder is a professional matchmaker with a BSc (hons) in Psychology and a PGDip Psychotherapy. Her natural intuition in comprehending human nature and her innate ability to connect and build trust with people enables quality and insightful networking.
Jo hails from the UK and moved to New Zealand in her twenties. In leaving her well established personal and professional networks, Jo had to rebuild her connections and her professional reputation and create new friendships.
Over the years Jo has embraced the diversity of the industries she has been fortunate to work in. And at the heart of it, it is the appeal of working with people that charms her.
Before joining Compatico Jo specialised in a People and Culture role, skilfully managing a wide variety of people in work situations.
Tiare Tolks
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BA, MSc (first-class hons), PGDip (Health Psychology)
Founding Psychologist
Compatico Relationship Expert
“Finding love is hard, and it is particularly difficult today. The loneliness epidemic is real, and people crave connection with real people. Connection creates a ripple effect which makes for a better world. The prospect of creating many more connections through the exemplary service curated for Compatico excites me and I am delighted to be part of this much-needed service in New Zealand.”
With a background as a psychologist, relationship therapist ( Emotion Focussed Therapy trained) and corporate leadership coach, Tiare brings all her knowledge into the collaborative co-creation of Compatico. Tiare’s core value is entrenched in connection, and she is delighted to bring her professional acumen and deep understanding of human behaviour to this service.
Beyond the initial allure and excitement of a new romance Tiare knows the essential elements required to nurture healthy and fulfilling relationships. She is enthusiastic about contributing to the creation of more authentic love in the world by sharing her knowledge and insights with the Compatico community.
Alexander Terblanche
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Sex and Relationship Therapist
Compatico Partner Sexologist & Psychotherapist
"In my career, I have seen tension between couples, and I am reminded of just how disillusioned many people feel within a relationship, despite the importance of a healthy relationship in our overall wellbeing. So, I am excited to be a part of Compatico's initiative-taking approach to dating and relationships and with the chance to change the way we develop new relationships. We all know the idiom that prevention is better than cure and I am looking forward to the opportunity to foster confidence through self-awareness right at the forefront of a new partnership."
Alexander Terblanche MSxlgy (Professional), PGDipSxlgy, PGDipPsychotherapySt, PGDipCounsTh has always championed self-aware relationships, a focus that was nurtured during two decades of health education, behaviour change facilitation, and specialist academic study in the fields of psychotherapy, counselling and human sexuality. Alexander is also among a handful in New Zealand with a master’s qualification in Sexology. Through his foundation in evidence-based techniques, he empowers clients to cultivate enduring connections, whether they are re-entering the dating scene or enriching existing relationships.
He is looking forward to assisting members in reaching their relationship aspirations alongside the exceptional Compatico team.
Lisa Matson
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Photographer, Stylist
Compatico Services
"Joining the team at Compatico was an easy decision for me. Not only do I get to work alongside a group of exceptional women whom I admire and respect both personally and professionally, but also I get to pursue my passion for making people look their best and to capture them while they are feeling most confident. The ability to transform people through my expertise in make-up artistry, hairstyling, photography, and fashion styling is a dream job, and I’m thrilled to have this opportunity with Compatico and its members.”
Lisa Matson is a prominent stylist in New Zealand, highly sought after by premium beauty and multinational consumer brands alike. Her exceptional abilities extend beyond her eye-catching photography and include make-up design, creative direction and styling. With an impressive portfolio that includes collaborations with local and international celebrities, as well as a track record of successful beauty events, fashion shows and advertising campaigns, Lisa has established herself as a leader in her field. Her illustrious 10-year role as L’Oreal Paris make-up director in New Zealand further attests to her expertise and influence.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lisa's respected reputation extends to the media, where she is regularly consulted for her insights and opinions on the beauty and fashion industry by many of New Zealand’s most popular magazines.
Mackenzie Alderson
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Joining Compatico was an instinctive yes — the values, the vision, and the heart behind the brand immediately resonated with me. I was drawn to the inspiring women who built it and quickly realised how rewarding it is to be a part of something that genuinely connects people.
With a background in digital marketing and a deep love for events, I bring a detail-focused, empathetic approach to building community — both online and in person. I understand how big a step it is to join Compatico, and I’m here to help make that journey feel warm, welcoming, and well-supported.
Whether I’m crafting our member communications, helping shape Compatico’s digital space, or bringing our experiences to life, I aim to create the kind of environment where connection can thrive.
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Compatico Photographer – Wellington
“I take pride in delivering natural, beautiful photos that truly resonate with people. This sense of connection is at the heart of what Compatico stands for, and I'm thrilled to be part of the team.”
One of the most cherished compliments I’ve received was from a client who, after browsing my portfolio, said, “I felt like I knew those people.” I always strive for genuine connection through the camera and that’s why this remark meant so much to me. Being in front of a camera can be daunting, but I see something unique and beautiful in everyone and know how to capture it.
Fifteen years ago, Catherine transitioned from a career as a financial journalist to photography and hasn't looked back since. As an accredited Grand Master of Photography with the NZ Institute of Professional Photography, she has won numerous awards and titles for both portrait and creative work. Catherine also represented New Zealand in the World Photographic Cup, where she ranked in the top 10 globally in the portrait category.
Her passion has always been photographing people, and she is excited to bring her skills to Compatico to capture the unique qualities of our members.
For more information and testimonials, please visit her website: www.catherinecattanach.com
Catherine Cattanach
Maria Buhrkuhl
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Compatico Photographer - Christchurch
“I love the connection that comes from photographing people. It energises me, and each day is filled with meeting fascinating individuals in this profession.”
With more than 25 years of experience, Maria is a creative force and an accredited Master Photographer with the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Photography and spent 18 successful years as an arts educator while building her photography business part-time. Now working full-time, Maria specialises in family photography, branding, and personal portraits, with her images earning recognition in both international and national photographic awards.
Maria has a special talent for making people feel at ease, allowing her to capture each person's true essence. A firm believer in the power of finding love through a trusted third party, Maria eventually met her life partner through a dating site. “Compatico’ s expert service would have made my journey so much easier and saved me years of online searching,” she says.
Maria looks forward to creating images that not only make people feel proud to present themselves but also supports their journey toward finding an authentic, meaningful connection.
The Human Story Behind Compatico
We humans are hard-wired to develop a close connection with someone. We all want to feel loved and cared for, at every age. However, the challenges of dating don't get easier as you get older, with few opportunities to meet a partner of a similar age. Many of us end up resorting to apps and online dating sites that often 'gamify' the serious business of finding a trusted partner, leaving us feeling disappointed, distrustful and disillusioned.
That was what Compatico's Founder, Dame Theresa Gattung, discovered when, after taking a health pause in a highly successful career, she tried dating again (after a 30-year gap) and realised she needed some help getting back into the dating saddle.
A high-achieving businesswoman and celebrated philanthropist who advocates for gender equality, Theresa tried a few dating services, but the experience left her underwhelmed. She couldn't find a bespoke matchmaking service for mature daters, particularly one that delivered the truly customised experience she was seeking. So, as a lifetime problem solver, Theresa founded Compatico as a premium, personalised, wraparound matchmaking service designed for people aged 30+ to find a partner in life and love.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Theresa handed over the reins to Elise Dalrymple-Keast. An entrepreneur since age 23 who co-founded marketing agency Brandsitters, Elise acquired Compatico after a weekend of obsessive thinking told her it was the right move. What drew her wasn't just the business opportunity, it was the purpose. "I never had the same passion for my marketing agency that other founders had. Now I know it's because the purpose wasn't strong enough."
Under Elise's leadership, Compatico has evolved from solely a matchmaking service into a thriving singles community. She's expanded the event calendar, introduced wellness programming, strengthened member support systems, and forged partnerships with lifestyle and wellness brands that align with the community's values.
Outside of work, you won't find Elise at home. She's the exact opposite of a homebody, happiest in nature, at the gym, learning, or planning her next hike or marathon. This isn't just personal preference, it's philosophy. Elise believes the best relationships come from people who are already living full, active, curious lives. People who invest in themselves, challenge themselves, and show up authentically. That's the kind of community she's building at Compatico: a place where you don't put your life on hold while searching for love, you live it fully—and find someone who wants to live it with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Once you purchase your membership, the Compatico team will get in touch to get you to arrange a Ministry of Justice police check and to get you to sign our membership agreement. Once that is done, you will have either a 30 or 60 minute video call with your matchmaker where we interview you, and craft your dating profile.
Once you have approved your dating profile, we will be in touch with potential matches and with event invitations. The frequency of contact and priority of matching depends on your membership level.
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Every month, our matchmakers start with matching for Platinum members. Once we have found options for Platinum members, we work through looking at matches for Gold members based off who is currently not dating in the pool. There is no dedicated matching for Bronze members, however Bronze members have the potential be matched with Platinum or Gold members.
Once we have a potential match, we will get in touch with both parties to ask if you are interested in meeting. If it’s a yes, we put you both in contact to arrange a date.
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Platinum offers first priority to matching opportunities and events, unlimited profile shares, monthly matchmaker calls. This membership is like having a ‘dating personal trainer’ alongside you throughout the dating journey.
Gold perfect for those happy with less hands-on support, and keen to proactively attend events to increase their chances of meeting someone. Our gold membership guarantees 3 profile shares within your membership. If 3 shares are not achieved within 12 months, your membership will roll over until 3 profile shares are achieved, up to a maximum of 24 months. This membership receives second priority access to matches and events.
Bronze is perfect for those who are happy to dip their toe in. Bronze members receive third priority access to matches and events, and we will only be in touch if we have a potential match for you. There are no guaranteed profile shares on Bronze, so we encourage you to register interest for events.
All memberships include a Ministry of Justice police check, a video onboarding call, and access to Compatico photographers, stylists, psychologists and counsellors at an additional fee.
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At Compatico, we measure our success on the number of opportunities we’ve created for people to meet. Thus far, we’ve sent members on over 600 dates and hosted dozens of member events.
We do have a number of happy couples who have met through Compatico, however we always say the success of the matches long term is down to the work the individuals personally put into themselves and into the relationship.
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First of all, there’s no app and you can’t see other members aside from when we share a potential match with you. You’ll get less ‘matches’ than you do on the apps, but with Compatico you have confidence that every person you meet has been background-checked, and screened by a human being for compatibility.
All of our members, regardless of the membership chosen, receive a face-to-face online consultation and an authentically crafted dating profile created by skilled professionals using our proprietary Compaticoder and research-based Q&As.
Finally, Compatico hosts a diverse range of events so you can connect with people offline.
Welcome to the opportunity to meet someone the old fashioned way.
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We have members based NZ-wide, and currently host in person events in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. You can join no matter where you are in the country, however matching may be slower if you live somewhere that’s not a main centre.
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Compatico is for distinguished people who want a more authentic and discreet way to meet someone on their level. Many of our members are successful professionals, entrepreneurs and retirees looking to connect with someone who shares their values. If you’re looking for a more personalised way to meet others, without the overwhelm of the apps or the public nature of online dating sites, Compatico is for you.
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A profile share is when we share the profile of a potential match with you, which you can then choose whether or not you accept or decline.
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For platinum members, we aim to share profiles with you within your first month of joining. For gold members, your three guaranteed profile shares will occur at some point throughout your 12 month membership, however we aim to get one to you within your first three months. Bronze members only receive a profile share if they are a match for one of our Platinum or Gold members.
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Yes. All members are eligible to be matched with all Platinum, Gold and Bronze members in the database, subject to profile compatibility and prioritisation.
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With both our Platinum and Gold memberships, members have the ability to put their memberships on hold by agreement. Bronze membership extensions will be considered on a member-by-member basis in the case of exceptional circumstances only.
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If a compatible match is made, we’ll personally introduce the profiles to each client. This provides an opportunity to answer any questions about these people. If you’re interested in taking the next step, we’ll connect you with your match (We'll only share your dating profile with a potential match once you have given Compatico permission).
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One of our matchmakers will be in touch with you both to see how the date went from each of your perspectives. Our matchmakers will help you navigate the next steps and then leave you to let things blossom at your own pace. For Platinum clients, we’re available for advice and help with navigating any early speed wobbles.
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Yes. No matter where you’re at on your relationship journey, we expect all of our members to be honest, transparent and genuinely available (i.e. single, separated, divorced or widowed). Every member will also need to pass a security check with the Ministry of Justice and this form will be sent to you.
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1. Protecting your data is our highest priority. Your details and personal profile can only be accessed by the Compatico team who are working to find you a match. Their access is restricted to specific devices, and requires multiple layers of verification prior to login.
2. Only information approved by you will be shared with other Compatico members.
3. In terms of cyber security, our website uses specialist database security from the most up-to-date software and CMS. Your data is encrypted and guarded by Cloudflare – a Web Application Firewall.
4. Our team operates with strict confidentiality in place. Discretion is a given for all our members and it is not our policy to share surnames, company names or the name of an employer
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Payment is accepted via credit card after membership type is selected and your online application form has been completed. Alternatively, you can arrange to pay via invoice.
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If you have a Bronze or Gold membership, you can upgrade at any time.
When you upgrade, we will credit you the remaining months of your Gold or Bronze membership; this amount will be deducted from your new membership total. Your new one-year membership will then commence.
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Yes, you can use your own photo, or arrange professional photography. Our Compatico photographers offer great rates for our members, so let us know on sign up if you would like us to put you in touch.
If you are taking your own photos, please follow the guidelines below:
Photography Guidelines
* Photos must be taken within the last two years, to ensure an accurate, true representation of your current appearance.
* Put your best foot forward: use a photo where you are looking your best.
* For the best presentation, we recommend photography that captures you from mid-thigh up, looking directly at the camera.
* Choose a clean, uncluttered background and ensure good natural lighting to highlight your natural features. Your photo should focus on you – no sunglasses or distracting elements.
* No heavy retouching.
* Photos need to be of a high resolution (300dpi).
* We recommend a smile! and to avoid any business / corporate photography.
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You need to confirm with us within 3 working days. If we do not hear from you, your potential match goes back into the pool.