August 13, 2013

Waikato-Tainui appoint new Te Kauhanganui chairman

Waikato-Tainui governance entity, Te Kauhanganui, has appointed its new chairman at a meeting held in the weekend. (SUBS 11 AUG)

Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai, a representative for Mokai Kainga Marae and past member of Te Arataura – Waikato-Tainui’s tribal executive, has been appointed chairman following a nine month vacancy of the role.

“I am humbled by the support received from Te Kauhanganui marae representatives who endorsed my appointment,” says Ms Moana-Tuwhangai of Ngaati Hikairo and Ngaati Apakura hapuu.

“My priority will be to ensure that Te Kauhanganui meets their key priorities and that Whakatupuranga 2050 – the tribe’s long term blueprint for tribal development – is realised.”

She also acknowledges the leadership of the former Chairman, Tania Martin, and the work of Deputy Chairman, Te Whakahawea Rapana who filled the role as acting Chairman. “Te Whakahawea has shown resilience over the past few months and I commend him for his commitment.”

Ms Moana-Tuwhangai has held a number of governance roles and is currently Chairman of the Proprietors of Taharoa C Block, Board Trustee of Te Aho o te Kura Pounamu (Correspondence School), Councillor for WINTEC, Authority Member for the Maritime Authority of New Zealand, and Director for the Upper Central Zone Board of New Zealand Rugby League.

In addition, Edward Hoki-Mai Chong, a representative for Rereteewhioi Marae, was appointed to Te Arataura. Mr Chong has a Master of Public Administration (Executive) from Victoria University and has worked extensively in government in various legal and policy roles. He is the current Chief Advisor to the Chief Executive of Te Puni Kookiri.

Te Arataura Chairman, Tom Roa was appointed negotiator for Waikato-Tainui. The negotiator role is responsible for ensuring the outstanding claims of Waikato-Tainui are resolved.

Waikato-Tainui has more than 64,500 iwi members. Te Kauhanganui is a 196-member governance entity which is made up of three representatives from each Waikato-Tainui marae.

ends

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