Kiwis at the Cup: Ezel Kokcu, co-founder of STQRY

Ezel Kokcu.

Q: You're doing a couple of projects involved with the America's Cup. Can you tell us a bit about that?

We've partnered with Trade and Enterprise to tell New Zealand stories with the America's Cup. So that ranges from technology, aviation, food, wine and New Zealand history.

Q: Can you explain a little bit more about what STQRY does?

We're a discovery tool, so people can discover the stories around them. Right now we're working with zoos, aquariums and museums around New Zealand and the States. It's one app that lets you explore everything around you, and that allows companies to communicate their stories through a mobile market, rather than just a web-based market.

Q: It must be a pretty cool time to be based in San Francisco if you're a Kiwi company?

Oh definitely, it's so great to see New Zealand make such a big impression on the city.

Q: Are you based here permanently?

We're based in Wellington, but we have an office in Seattle and we've recently expanded our business into San Francisco. We'll be returning to Wellington after the America's Cup.

Q: Did you know much about sailing before this project came up?

No I didn't, but because I had to supervise all the content going into the STQRY app I learned pretty quickly. I'd get all the information, look at it, then send it off to our writers. They'd write it and get it back to me to fact-check.

Q: So are you an expert on all the technology on the boats now, then?

Yep, I know more about an AC72 catamaran than I ever thought I would.

Q: Have you got to see them race, then?

Yeah, I got to see their very first race against Luna Rossa up close out on one of the charter boats. It was amazing, one of the best experiences ever.

Q: Sounds like you're a sailing convert now ...

Oh totally, I've got really into it. I've been watching all the America's Cup races.