26 Hui-tanguru 2007

Media Statement
For Immediate Release

Chief steps down from commission helm

Outspoken Chief Executive Haami Piripi has ended his seven-year term at the Māori Language Commission to return to his ahi kā – homeland and fulfil his destiny.

His departure from the Commission also ends a career of over 35 years in the public sector.

“While the board and staff are sad to see Haami go it is in the knowledge that he returns to lead his iwi of Te Rarawa in the far north. It is a role he has been trained and groomed for his whole life,” says Commissioner Erima Henare.

The commission staff and management farewelled their chief executive at an intimate ceremony last week, a more formal send off shared with external stakeholders will be held this Friday.

“During his time at the helm of the Commission Haami has been instrumental in turning the tide for Māori language and in developing a number of significant initiatives and programmes. These have included Mā Te Reo – the community Māori language fund, the Kōrero Māori information programme, revival of Matariki – the Māori New Year, development of a Māori language lexical database and establishment of the Māori Language Week Awards,” says Mr Henare.

“Internally, at the offices of the Commission, Haami has left behind a legacy. Staff turnover at the Commission is probably the lowest in the public sector. There is a true sense of whānau loyalty, total commitment to kaupapa Māori and an “open door” policy the likes of which, I would argue cannot be found anywhere else in the sector,” he says.

Selection of a new Chief Executive is currently underway with an announcement likely to be made within the week.

“During this transition period, second in charge – Sharon Armstrong, will act in the position of Chief Executive,” says Mr Henare.

ENDS

© Scoop Media