March 31, 2022
Media Release: Te Runanga o Ngāti Awa welcomes Reuben Araroa as new Chief Executive Officer
Te Runanga o Ngāti Awa welcomes Reuben Araroa as new Chief Executive Officer
The Board of Te Runanga o Ngāti Awa (Ngāti Awa) is delighted to appoint Reuben Te Pere Araroa (Ngāti Awa, Ngāpuhi, Ngai Tuhoe) as Manahautū/Chief Executive Officer. Reuben’s appointment follows an extensive search for a capable and experienced leader to lead the Runanga in its next exciting chapter.
Reuben brings to the role an impressive track record in the public and private sector having worked in the transport, manufacturing and forestry sectors. In an eight-year term at Kiwi Rail Reuben managed the country’s largest growth region as General Manager for the Upper North Island, responsible for 700 staff and a combined operating and capital budget of over $500 million.
Prior to joining Kiwi Rail Reuben was the Area Manager for the SIG Mill in Whakatāne where he led a team of over 100 employees working across manufacturing, maintenance and financial performance. Reuben maintains close relationships and a personal interest in the future success of the mill as part of the commercial and industrial heart of Whakatāne.
Reuben also plans to leverage his experience in the forestry sector to continue the success of the Ngāti Awa forestry operations. Having served as GM Operations for prominent Whakatāne firm Kajavala Forestry Reuben has an in-depth knowledge of the sector and appreciates the importance of forestry in the economic development of the iwi.
Before embarking on his business career Reuben distinguished himself as a soldier with the New Zealand Defense Force attaining the rank of 2IC Section Commander in the 1st Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
Reuben holds a Bachelor of Applied Management from the Otago Polytechnic. He is a Certified Director of the New Zealand Institute of Directors, member of Te Kupenga Mahi Rail and Road Transport Network and Chair of Te Māpou Marae and the Omatariua Trust in the Ngāti Awa region.
Reuben is also the founder and director of Whakaaro Inc, a leadership development organisation that aims to elevate Māori leadership presence within business whilst changing perspectives of Te Ao Māori and the value it has for all leaders across Aotearoa.
Speaking on the appointment Ngāti Awa Tumuaki (Chairman) Joe Harawira said:
“We are extremely pleased to have Reuben return to his iwi to fulfil this extremely important and challenging role. To be able to appoint a candidate of Reuben’s calibre and experience from among our own is very special. We look forward to welcoming Reuben and supporting him in his new role.”
Reuben says: “To be asked to contribute to the intergenerational leadership journey of Ngāti Awa is a privilege and honour. The strongest emotion I feel is whakahī – pride.
“I understand the significant challenges our iwi face and I feel very fortunate for the opportunity to add my energy and expertise to this kaupapa as we navigate the current challenges and seek out the many opportunities that lie ahead of us.”
Reuben will be formally welcomed in a powhiri on Monday 11 April at Te Mānuka Tutahi Marae before he commences his role the following week.