Te Mana o Ngati Rangitihi appoints Hapai-O (Chief Executive)

1 July 2013

Te Mana o Ngati Rangitihi Trust appoints Hapai-O (Chief Executive)

Te Mana o Ngati Rangitihi Trust Chairman Graham Pryor is pleased to announce the appointment of experienced and respected director and environmental and cultural advisor, Anthony Olsen, to the role of Hapai-O (Chief Executive) for the Trust.

Mr Olsen has over 15 years experience in business and community development and has a particular focus on environmental protection and development. He is a member of the Bay of Plenty Regional Economic Development Partnership, and is the outgoing Chair of the Energy Advisory Group, Co-Chair of the Maori Economic Development Advisory Group, and [former] Chair of the East Coast Bay of Plenty Conservation Board.

“It’s great that Anthony is taking on the role of Hapai-O for the Trust. He is Ngati Rangitihi by whakapapa and has worked extensively on environmental issues, which is a major focus for us,” said Mr Pryor.

“This is an exciting time for Te Mana o Ngati Rangitihi as we move into the mandating process to represent the Iwi in comprehensive settlement negotiations.”

Mr Pryor said the Trust has taken a prudent and robust approach to management of its finances and in maintaining stewardship over the Trust’s assets.

“Anthony brings a wealth of knowledge and has a solid track record in property management and experience as a director overseeing significant investments. He has a strong economic development and environmental background, which is important for our people,” said Mr Pryor.

A key part of the Iwi Strategic Plan is for Te Mana o Ngati Rangitihi Trust to regain its place as kaitiaki over Ngati Rangitihi traditional taonga including maunga, whenua, moana and awa.

The new Chief Executive will play a vital role in implementing the Iwi Education and te Reo strategies, and will lead the organisation’s engagement with key stakeholders such as the Government and local councils.

“Anthony has worked inside government and also alongside Council for some time so he will bring valuable insights that will support our Iwi growth.

“Providing our people with the opportunity to learn our Reo is crucial to ensuring it is protected for generations to come. It is fantastic that Anthony is a Reo speaker and he can support this area of our Iwi development,” said Mr Pryor.

The Trust’s board acknowledged the services of Harina Warbrick who has acted in the Chief Executive role since May last year.

“Harina has done a great job to guide the Trust through some challenging times and we have appreciated her steady hand being in control,” said Mr Pryor.

Mr Olsen will start as Hapai-O in July.

ENDS

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