Ngāpuhi Asset Holding Company Appoints New Chief Executive Officer

Ngāpuhi Asset Holding Company (NAHC), the commercial entity of Ngāpuhi, has appointed experienced Māori investment professional Matthew Mudford (Ngāpuhi-Ngāti Whararā, Te Rarawa-Ngāi Tūpoto) as its new Chief Executive Officer.

NAHC Board independent chair Nick Wells is pleased to welcome Mr Mudford to the team.

"Matthew joins us at a critical time as we finalise NAHC's strategy to 2035 and gear up to become the trusted Investment Manager in the North. Our focus is to further grow and diversify our asset portfolio on behalf of Ngāpuhi uri, while supporting and collaborating with hapū and lands trusts. Matthew's experience supporting Māori businesses to raise capital and grow means he brings the technical expertise, networks, and the right lens to balance commercial outcomes with tikanga and whānau aspirations," Mr Wells says.

Mr Mudford's appointment was also celebrated by Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi-O-Ngāpuhi chair Mane Tahere.

"NAHC has an important role in the Group, to build intergenerational wealth for our mokopuna. As we look ahead to where we want Ngāpuhi to be in 2035, it is encouraging to see yet another Ngāpuhi uri return home to play a part in getting us there," says Mr Tahere.

Matthew Mudford joins NAHC from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, where as an Investment Manger he supported Māori businesses and entities to build long-term investment capability.

Prior to this Mr Mudford was at KPMG and led strategy and transformation in major organisations and iwi entities across the motu. He co-founded Kiwa, KPMG's Māori and Pasifika network tasked with building Māori capability and mentoring emerging talent.

As Ngāpuhi uri, Mr Mudford says it is an honour to bring his skills, networks, and passion home to serve Ngāpuhi.

"Having contributed to both public and private sector organisations, I am honoured to be given this opportunity to now serve our iwi. Motivated by the long-term wellbeing of our whānau and whenua, my professional and governance experience has reinforced a deep understanding of the responsibility of stewardship – balancing growth, cultural integrity, and sustainable decision-making,” says Mr Mudford.

Matthew Mudford begins in the Chief Executive role in February 2026. Outgoing Chief Executive Stewart Otene will be available to ensure a smooth transition.

"We have been very fortunate to have Stewart at the helm over the past two and a half years and are grateful for his contribution over this time. He leaves a strong legacy in the Kaikohe Berryfruit T&G Fresh joint venture," says NAHC Board chair Nick Wells.

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