Erina is of Waikato-Tainui, Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngāi Te Rangi descent.

She is a freshwater scientist and works at the interface between iwi, policy and science.

She is a strong advocate for undertaking research that is co-developed with Māori, based on their aspirations and values, which result in tangible outcomes that build the capacity of Māori. 

She has worked for several iwi and trusts and is a member of numerous freshwater and fisheries societies in New Zealand and Australia.