2 October 2001 Media Statement

New appointment to NZ Historic Places Trust

Dr Merata Kawharu has been appointed to the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Judith Tizard, announced today.

Dr Kawharu replaces Peter Adds, whose term of appointment has expired.

"I would like to thank Peter for all his work and effort," said Judith Tizard. "His commitment and contribution is greatly appreciated and his expertise has been highly valued."

Dr Merata Kawharu is a Research Fellow at the University of Auckland's James Henare Mâori Research Centre. As a Rhodes Scholar, she read Social Anthropology at Oxford University, graduating with a D.Phil in 1998. She is presently undertaking a Graduate Diploma in Business Administration.

Dr Kawharu has published various papers on Mâori socio-environmental and development studies, as well as reports for Te Puni Kokiri, the Te Aitanga a Mahaki Claims Committee, and the Crown Forestry Rental Trust. She established, and is an advisor to, Te Kawautikitiki Charitable Trust, a member of Te Kaunihera o Te Whare Wananga o Te Pihopatanga o Aotearoa, and a member of the Rhodes Scholarship Selection Committee, University of Auckland.

"Merata Kawharu will be a strong contributor to the Historic Places Trust. Her knowledge and experience will be of great value," said Judith Tizard.

Merata Kawharu is automatically appointed to the Mâori Heritage Council by virtue of her appointment to the Historic Places Trust Board, under section 84(2)(a) of the Historic Places Trust Act 1993, and section 42(b).

The term of appointment is effective from 1 October 2001 until 30 June 2004.

ENDS

© Scoop Media