Arapata Hakiwai Appointed As Te Papa Director

17 November 2003

MEDIA RELEASE

MR ARAPATA HAKIWAI APPOINTED AS TE PAPA'S DIRECTOR OF MÄTAURANGA MÄORI

Te Papa's Chief Executive, Dr Seddon Bennington, and Kaihautü, Te Taru White, announced today the appointment of Mr Arapata Hakiwai as Te Papa's Director of Mätauranga Mäori. Mätauranga Mäori recognises that taonga (treasures) and collections have special sprirtual and cultural connections with Mäori.

Dr Bennington said today that Mr Hakiwai brings a wealth of experience to this important role.

"Arapata will direct the Mäori research, curatorial and collection management teams within Te Papa and, through his extensive contacts and experience, will strengthen Te Papa's relationships and collaborative opportunities with iwi, related organisations and communities", said Dr Bennington.

Mr Hakiwai currently holds the position of Community Partnerships Manager Mäori Te Taumaru Herenga-ä-iwi within Te Papa's National Services Te Paerangi, which provides services and advice to museums, iwi and heritage organisations across New Zealand.

Mr Hakiwai has extensive museum experience, including over twelve years at Te Papa and the previous National Museum as a Curator and Collection Manager and as Te Papa's Manager of Bicultural Operations from 1998 to 2001.

Mr Hakiwai has led a number of major projects including the renovation of the Ruatepupuke carved meeting house in the Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois from 1991 to 1993. Mr Hakiwai also has significant research and practical experience in the development of tribal museums and cultural centres and taonga-related research.

Through his role with National Services Te Paerangi, Mr Hakiwai has developed extensive networks within museums, iwi and heritage organisations across New Zealand.

ENDS

© Scoop Media