Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Renata Blair as the new Chief Executive Officer of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua.

Renata (Te Uri o Hau, Ngāti Rango, Te Taoū, Te Uringutu, me Ngāoho) brings more than 20 years of governance, strategic, and executive leadership experience across both public and private sectors, serving hapū and wider Māori communities.

Since 2013, Renata has been a Director on the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust Board, helping drive significant social, cultural, and economic initiatives for our people.

From 2016 to 2022, he also served on the Independent Māori Statutory Board, championing greater Māori participation in local government decision-making across Tāmaki Makaurau.

He now brings that experience home to his iwi and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua.

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua Board Chair, Tyrone Raumati, says Renata’s appointment strengthens the Rūnanga’s vision: “Renata’s experience will help us advance a pathway grounded in iwi aspirations, cultural strength, and building durable structures that serve Ngāti Whātua today and for generations to come.”

Tyrone says the appointment marks a significant moment: “The calibre of applicants was exceptional, especially those from within Ngāti Whātua. It’s powerful to see our own stepping forward to lead. I’m excited for the direction ahead and confident in the drive, energy and experience Renata will bring as we continue to move forward together as an iwi.”

Renata Blair's formal commencement will take place in the New Year with an iwi-wide pōwhiri.

About Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua: 

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua is the central representative body for the Ngāti Whātua iwi, established to advocate for its people and manage their assets effectively.

Overview and Establishment

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua was established under the Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua Act 1988, which formalised its role as a Māori Trust Board. This Act allows the Rūnanga to act as the sole representative body for Ngāti Whātua, ensuring that the interests of its members are effectively represented in dealings with the Crown and other entities.

The primary purpose of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua is to advocate for the iwi, manage its assets, and promote social and cultural initiatives. The Rūnanga is guided by core principles such as kōtahitanga, mātauranga, and effective governance. It aims to ensure the well-being and development of nga uri o Ngāti Whātua while preserving their heritage and identity.

The Rūnanga is governed by 11 elected kaitiaki from five takiwā, ensuring diverse representation within the iwi. This governance structure allows for collective decision-making and the incorporation of various iwi voices in its operations.

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