Ngāi Tahu Representation

Kia hiwa rā!

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu is seeking a nomination to appoint a Ngāi Tahu representative to the Meridian Energy - Te Waiau Mahika Kai Trust.

This is an opportunity to contribute to the protection, restoration and enhancement of mahika kai within the Waiau catchment while ensuring the Ngāi Tahu values, interests and aspirations are represented in the Trust's work.

About the Te Waiau Mahika Kai Trust
The Trust works to protect, restore and enhance mahika kai and freshwater ecosystems throughout the Waiau catchment. Its key functions include:

Restoring and enhancing habitats to increase the diversity and abundance of mahika kai resources.
Strengthening the social, cultural and economic relationship of Ngāi Tahu with the natural resources of the Waiau catchment.
Supporting opportunities for Kāi Tahu to sustainably harvest mahika kai.
Promoting the sustainable management and enhancement of mahika kai resources.
Identifying, protecting, restoring and enhancing significant fisheries, mahika kai sites, native plant communities and wildlife habitats throughout the catchment.
Investing in projects and initiatives through grant funding that advance the Trust's purpose.
Supporting initiatives that sustain native freshwater fisheries and mahika kai species, including measures such as eel trapping and transfer where required.
Undertaking research that contributes to the Trust's objectives.
About the role
As a Ngāi Tahu representative, you will provide a Ngāi Tahu perspective at the Trust table, helping to ensure tribal values, priorities and interests are reflected in the Trust's work.

You will also maintain a strong connection with Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu by keeping the organisation informed of matters of tribal significance and representing Ngāi Tahu views on issues considered by the Trust.

Skills and experience
We're looking for applicants with knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas:

Habitat restoration
Mahika kai
Ngāi Tahu resource management practices and tikanga
Environmental management and water quality
Native freshwater fisheries
Education and community development
Financial management
Strategic planning
Meetings and remuneration

Approximately two meetings each year, held in Invercargill.
Additional discussions may occur via email as required.
Position/s Available

There is one position available.
How to apply
Nominations must be made through your Papatipu Rūnaka. The following Rūnaka are eligible to nominate applicants:

Hokonui Rūnanga
Waihōpai Rūnaka Inc.
Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka
Te Rūnaka o Awarua
If you are interested in being considered, please contact your Rūnaka to discuss your interest and complete the nomination process.

For further information, assistance connecting with your Papatipu Rūnaka, or to discuss the role, please contact Mishele Radford, Advisor – External Appointments, mishele.radford@ngaitahu.iwi.nz or mob: 021 943 816

Nominations should be received by ngā Rūnaka by close of business, Friday, 28 August 2026.

Formal notification will be sent to all nominees following the ngā Rūnaka review and appointment process.

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai.

Job Details

Reference #
36785

Business areas
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, Papatipu Rūnanga , Governance

Posted on
Friday 31 Jul 2026

Closes on
28 Aug 2026 17:00

Expertise
Aquaculture & Fishing, Community Services & Development, Conservation and Animals, Conservation, Parks and Wildlife, Cultural Leadership / Development, Marketing & Communications, Mining, Resources & Energy, Policy, Planning & Regulations, Science and Technology

Work type(s)
Governance