One of Aotearoa’s largest community funders has announced a leadership shake-up, appointing a new chair and deputy chair to help steer its future.
Foundation North has confirmed the new appointments as part of its ongoing governance transition, with the organisation responsible for distributing millions of dollars each year to support communities across Tāmaki Makaurau and Te Tai Tokerau.
The trust says the new leadership team brings a wealth of experience across governance, Māori development, and community investment – a move aimed at strengthening its impact and deepening relationships with iwi, hapū and local organisations.
Foundation North plays a major role in funding initiatives that support whānau wellbeing, education, housing, and environmental projects. The organisation has also been placing greater emphasis on equity, particularly for Māori and Pacific communities.
In announcing the changes, the foundation acknowledged the contribution of outgoing leadership, while signalling a continued focus on long-term, intergenerational outcomes.
The new chair and deputy chair are expected to guide the organisation through a period of evolving priorities – including responding to ongoing social and economic challenges facing communities across the upper North Island.
For Radio Waatea, the appointments reflect more than a governance shift – they highlight the importance of strong leadership in directing resources to where they are needed most.
Philip Crump has been elected Chair of Foundation North. Philip has been a Trustee on the Foundation’s board since January 2026 and takes over as Chair from Michelle Tsui, who has held the position since June 2024 and whose second four-year term on the Board ends this month.
Philip Crump is an accomplished lawyer with over 25 years of legal experience in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. He practiced at Russell McVeagh in Auckland before becoming a Partner at Kirkland & Ellis in London, where he was recognised as a leading lawyer by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500.
Philip holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Māori Studies and a law degree from the University of Auckland. A member of the Waitangi Tribunal, he also serves on the Board of New Zealand On Air and the NZME Editorial Advisory Board.
Philip says “I am honoured to work alongside my fellow trustees, focused on ensuring that Foundation North continues to fulfil our purpose to enhance lives and continuing the responsible allocation of resources in alignment with our strategy; enabling intergenerational impact for the communities of today and tomorrow.”
Moving into the position of Deputy Chair is Martin Cleave (Ngātiwai, Te Rarawa, Tainui) who replaces Ngaire Rae, whose second term on the board also ends this month.
Martin Cleave is a CEO, company director, and board member whose career spans Māori trusts, media entities, and commercial ventures.
Both appointments are effective from 1 June 2026.
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