Auckland’s Radio Waatea has spotlighted renowned Māori leadership in The Inspiring Māori Series, with this week’s episode featuring Sir Mark Solomon – a respected rangatira whose life and work have shaped communities across Aotearoa.
Hosted by Matthew Tukaki, The Inspiring Māori Series celebrates Māori excellence, sharing the journeys, challenges and triumphs of leaders, innovators and community builders. Sir Mark Solomon – from Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Kurī – is widely acknowledged for his decades of leadership in iwi development, wellbeing and cultural advocacy.
He has served as Chair of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, guiding his iwi through significant growth and transformation, as well as championing kaupapa such as education, economic development, and community wellbeing. Sir Mark’s leadership has also been recognised nationally: he was appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and business.
In the interview, Sir Mark reflects on his journey, the importance of empowering whānau, and the role of leadership rooted in tikanga and community aspiration. The discussion offers insight and inspiration for listeners across Aotearoa seeking to understand the challenges and triumphs of Māori leadership in the modern era.
You can listen to the full interview with Sir Mark Solomon – part of The Inspiring Māori Series – on Waatea News online:
Listen here: https://waateanews.com/2025/09/10/the-inspiring-maori-series-sir-mark-solomon/
The Inspiring Māori Series continues to highlight voices shaping te ao Māori and inspiring whānau throughout the motu.
