Kristina Roesebeck

Kristina Roesebeck has never been afraid to start over. Each new chapter in her career has begun with the same instinct: find a practical problem, then work out how to solve it. She has been a chef in professional kitchens in Europe, run a tourism business doing up and leasing campervans, and designed ready-to-eat meals. Her instincts for spotting an opportunity eventually led her to a garage, turning outdoor adventure gear into a lead for her dog, Loki.

That first climbing rope lead became Arctic Sammy, a Christchurch-based business creating premium dog gear for active owners. Kristina approached product development by observing how people actually lived with their dogs, identifying frustrations and refining practical solutions. From hands-free leads and waterproof materials to safety lights inspired by real camping trips, each product responds to a genuine need rather than following trends.

Since launching in 2021, Arctic Sammy has grown into an international brand with more than 30 per cent of sales coming from overseas markets. Kristina has kept production in Christchurch, allowing the business to respond quickly to customer feedback while maintaining the craftsmanship and durability behind its reputation. Lifetime warranties, compostable packaging and donations to dog shelters reflect her belief that quality should extend beyond the product itself.

Growth, for Kristina, is measured by whether the next step protects the product, the customer and the purpose behind the brand. She continues to expand Arctic Sammy carefully, investing in people, equipment and product innovation only when it strengthens the business she is building: practical, durable gear that helps more dogs join everyday life and outdoor adventure.