The Central App’s new marketing and operations executive Alyssa Serignese has an interesting life, living off-grid with her partner in Roxburgh East, and a growing animal sanctuary.

Moving halfway around the world - originally from Colorado, she and Antony opened Alexandra Tattoo Co three years ago and also found their perfect piece of land - a 6ha block for their alternative lifestyle.

Having moved from the States six years ago to Queenstown, the couple were looking for a slower pace of life, but knew they wanted to stay in the area.

"We were just looking for properties and so expanded our search and stumbled across Central Otago," she said.

Their piece of paradise includes 12 permanent ‘residents,’ including their beloved Australian shepherd/border collie Poncho, along with five sheep, two alpacas, two cats and two chickens.

George the Alpaca who lives with Alyssa and Antony. Photo supplied.

The animal sanctuary will eventually become a charitable trust to allow them to include rehabilitation and adoption services, as well as education.

The couple love the Teviot Valley and say the locals have been good to them.

"It's been really nice to just be able to go and chat to the locals and get their input and advice.”

Meanwhile back in Alexandra, their tattoo and piercing business has seen steady growth, now employing another artist to keep up with demand.

Alyssa starts fulltime with the Central App in the New Year, and has worked in marketing for over 10 years.

“I’m looking forward to using my skills to see the impact they have on local small businesses and to help the community grow.”

The winning Alexandra United Football Club sevens team. supplied

Outside of work and taking care of animals, Alyssa coaches and plays for the Alexandra United Football Club Women (AUFCW).

In June 2025 she was part of the first ever Central Otago Women’s League, involving teams from Alexandra, Cromwell, Wanaka and Queenstown.

Later in the season they won the Alexandra Sevens aside tournament for the second consecutive year.

The team is always welcoming new players, emphasising that age and skill doesn't matter.

Life is certainly busy for Alyssa and Antony, and they are looking forward to settling more into the Central Otago community and enjoying the region.

"I've had to do a bit more planning than usual, just because I’m wanting to take in the animals and having our own property now, but definitely just enjoying Roxburgh... and just really making Central home,” she said.