Background

Kia ora whānau, over the past eight years Taumutu Rūnanga has undergone a phased transformation to realign its structure with the evolving needs of our whānau and strategic vision. In 2025, an exciting new governance and operating model is being adopted to enhance sustainability, strategic delivery, and role clarity. The change includes the centralisation of operational management, and improved systems for decision-making.

Check in with this webpage where we will keep you up to date with the key changes.

What does our new structure look like?

Taumutu Rūnanga has been restructured so that we can more effectively deliver our strategic priorities and engage with external entities more efficiently. In 2024, the Rūnanga approved moving from the Incorporated Society structure to a Company structure. The Incorporated Society still exists as it remains the legal parent and sole shareholder of the company, enabling it to receive distributions from Ngāi Tahu (which is a legal requirement). The Incorporated Society also exercises oversight by holding the company’s Pou Arataki accountable on behalf of the Rūnanga.

We are now known as ‘Taumutu Rūnanga Limited’ and we are a registered Charitable Company. This is how our new company structure looks –

We’re excited to introduce the six Pou Arataki who make up the poari (board) of our company, Taumutu Rūnanga Ltd.

With over 30 applications received, the level of interest was incredible. The Pou Arataki were selected by an independent appointment panel made up of David Perenara-O’Connell, Dr Liz Brown, and Sally Nutira. Having completed this important task, we’re proud to share the outcome with you:

Pou Arataki, Tū Rangatira: Puamiria Parata-Goodall

Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki, Ngāti Wheke, Ngāti Irakehu, Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Ngāti Huirapa, Ngāti Kurī

Puamiria is a firm believer in the power of people working together for good. With a background in cultural development, leadership, and kaupapa Māori approaches, she brings a steady hand, an open heart, and a sharp eye for opportunity. She’s passionate about creating spaces where diverse voices are heard and respected. As the Pou Whakarae (Chair), Puamiria is committed to supporting the board to stay focused, grounded, and courageous as they step into this new chapter — together.

In her dual capacity as the Pou Arataki, Tū Rangatira, Puamiria brings a wealth of skills and experience to the governance role having served on local and national boards for the past 2 decades. She has extensive networks within the hapū, Ngāi Tahu and across iwi, as well as within local and central government and several national forums. Puamiria is driven by legacy and her commitment to our mokopuna.

Pou Arataki, Te Pā o Moki: Graham Nutira

Graham has been actively involved with Te Taumutu Rūnanga since the early 1990’s. He has extensive governance experience having held numerous positions for several of the rūnaka entities. Graham is committed to preserving and growing the legacy for future generations while connecting with the current generation. Graham brings with him a range of skills from his private sector life including management and financial oversight in addition to risk assessment skills. Graham is Ngāi Tahu/ Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki/Ngāti Moki.

Pou Arataki, Te Oranga o Te Ruahikihiki: Thomas Horton

Thomas has a background in governance, financial planning, and operational management. As the Member Experience Manager at Whai Rawa Fund Limited, he has worked to uplift whānau through economic empowerment and improved access to support. His experiences working alongside whānau in both Aotearoa and Australia have deepened his commitment to improving outcomes in housing, education, and social support. Thomas is focused on initiatives that foster holistic oranga and build enduring partnerships to create lasting, systemic change. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Management, a New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5 – Investments), and a Certificate in Professional Project Management. Thomas is a proud descendant of Ngāi Tahu, Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki, and several other hapū.

Pou Arataki, Te Whare o Te Ruahikihiki: Sam Kellar

Sam Kellar is the General Manager of Whai Rawa, the investment scheme of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. In this role, Sam leads the delivery of long-term financial wellbeing for Ngāi Tahu whānui, overseeing strategy, stakeholder engagement, and operational performance. With a strong background in financial services and kaupapa Māori leadership, Sam is focused on growing intergenerational wealth and enhancing equitable access to savings and investment opportunities. His work focuses on aligning commercial success with kaupapa Māori values, advancing sustainable investment, and partnering with iwi, hapū, and regional stakeholders to grow shared prosperity. Sam is committed to making a meaningful difference to the economic prosperity of Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki ki Taumutu. Sam is Ngāi Tahu/ Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki.

Pou Arataki, Waihora Whatu Rau: Mapihi Martin-Paul

Mapihi is passionate about ensuring the vitality and abundance of Te Waihora and our takiwā for generations to come. She is both personally and professionally dedicated to kaitiakitanga and environmental sustainability, as well safeguarding mahinga kai and our natural environment. Mapihi is an Associate Principal at Boffa Miskell and has extensive experience ranging from landscape architecture to resource management, planning, and freshwater ecology. In her role at Boffa Miskell, Mapihi has experience weaving together mātauranga Māori with western science particularly in relation to cultural health monitoring and ecological restoration. Mapihi is Ngāi Tahu/Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki, as well as Te Arawa/Ngāti Pikiao.

Pou Arataki, Te Hā o Te Ruahikihiki :

Coming soon…

Under the Pou Arataki is our Tumu Whakarae: Cory Neale

Dynamic and results-driven leader with over two decades of experience in strategic leadership, operational management, and international collaboration. Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, optimize business operations, and enhance customer experiences. Expertise in financial management, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement. Committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and operational excellence. Currently pursuing an MBA to further deepen strategic and operational acumen.

Deeply committed to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and fostering a culturally inclusive environment. My leadership philosophy is guided by whakataukī that resonate best: “Ko au te awa, ko te awa ko au” (I am the river, and the river is me), “Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, he toa takitini” (My strength is not as an individual but as a collective), and “Mauria te pono kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui” (Believe in yourself to be strong, to be brave, to be steadfast).

Dedicated to promoting safety, inclusivity, and organisational excellence. Expertise in governance, financial management, risk mitigation, and ESG sustainability.

Our new Pou Arataki are still refining how we will continue our whānau engagement. We will keep you up to date with what you need to know.