November 27, 2023
Bold step for Moeraki man
Justin Tipa from Kāi Tahu and Kāti Mamoe was elected kaiwhakahaere of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu at the iwi’s annual hui at Arahura Marae near Hokitika at the weekend.
He replaces Lisa Tumahai who steps down after seven years in the role.
The vote for deputy chair was drawn, so will be redone in early 2024.
Mr Tipa, who has been on the board for just two years representing Moeraki, says he is committed to listening to whānau and ensuring there is tikaka-based decision making at the rūnanga.
The Panekiritanga graduate had been the Māori business manager for Fonterra in Christchurch and this year became the dairy giant’s chief Māori advisor.
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