Hi, I’m Tara

Designer, brand strategist, and Dolphamine drug dealer Founder. I help ocean-based businesses build brands that look good, feel good, and connect with the right people.

Before Dolphamine, I earned a Master’s in Design (Professional Creative Practice), ran Tara Cooney Design, and spent over a decade working across industries — from government to non-profits. Past clients include NZ Police, Dementia NZ, the New Zealand branch of the Australasian College of Health Service Management and Newton Espresso. I’ve crafted visual identities for a King’s Counsel, designed book covers for international authors, and created bespoke legacy books through Teller of Tales.

Today, I focus exclusively on ocean-based brands — offering thoughtful, sector-specific design.

Why ocean brands?

Funnily enough, I grew up on a kiwifruit farm in rural New Zealand. With horses, DIY go-carts, and more practical skills than my boyfriends were EVER comfortable with. Since then, I’ve discovered the shackles of maintenance the freedom of living on a sailboat and built Saltwater Journal into one of the most widely read sailing lifestyle blogs internationally.

Marine industries are often underserved when it comes to creative support. It needs designers with big-brand thinking and real-world sea legs. I’m here to change that.

What I offer

Having experience in marina management — I know how design and communication need to function together practically and visually: on the dock, across time zones, and in busy boatie lives. I design with that in mind.

Some businesses need full brand strategy or visual identity refresh; others want help launching a product, building a sustainable content system, or showing up with impact at an event. Whatever the scope, I work closely with each client to make sure their brand stands out.

I keep one eye on design trends and the other on the water.

From shifting boat ownership models to the rise of sustainable charters, AI technology and and digital-first marinas, I stay tapped into what’s changing — and what brands need to do to keep up. Whether it’s industry innovation or customer expectations, my clients get the updates that keep them informed.

On the ground, in the water

Regattas, festivals, and marine events — I’m there and available to shoot film and photography content that shares the stories and key information, while capturing the energy of the moment.

Do you need content and design work?

I’m available to collaborate with:

• Cruising and charter operators

• Sailing schools

• Boatbuilders and marine manufacturers

• Ocean festivals and regattas

• Marine conservation and education groups

• Salty lifestyle brands