15 August 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Rangitāmiro Board is pleased to announce Te Rōpu Poa (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Wai and Ngāti Kahu ki Whangaroa) has accepted the position of Chief Executive for Whānau Ora Commissioning in Te Tai Tokerau, Tāmaki Makaurau, Waikato, Hauraki and Tuwharetoa.
Rangitāmiro Board Chair Eru Lyndon was impressed with the exceptional calibre of applicants, something he knows is indicative of the level of expertise and talent in the market right now.
“We took care to run a robust process, and we’re heartened by the high standard of candidates and their thoughtful submissions — a true reflection of the strength of Māori leadership. Te Rōpu advanced with her extensive experience working in the hauora space, as well as her unwavering advocacy for positive whānau wellbeing, which spans decades. We were impressed that her vision aligns with our focus to continue honouring the legacy of Dame Tariana Turia, delivering Whānau Ora services to whānau.”
Te Rōpu is honoured to be the new Rangitāmiro Chief Executive, a role she says continues her passion for ensuring Māori voices shape policy and practice.
“I have spent the majority of my career championing oranga Māori. My kaupapa includes kai sovereignty, sustainable housing, and renewable energy – building resilient, self-sustaining futures for whānau. Mauri tū, mauri ora.”
Te Rōpu is a well-known advocate for Māori well-being and self-determination. Rooted in Ngāpuhi, her mahi is driven by whakapapa, whenua, and moana, with a clear purpose – uplifting whānau, hapū, and iwi.
“Serving whānau has been at the forefront of my career for many, many years, and it will always define my work. The cultural aspect of whānau and hauora alongside accessible healthcare and wellbeing is why Rangitāmiro exists and where my focus lies. The capacity, capability, and independence of whānau is the crucial framework for our 51 Rangitāmiro partners and 301 Kaiwhiriri, supporting communities with Whānau Ora, proudly continuing Dame Tariana Turia’s legacy.”
Te Rōpu Poa’s experience includes Regional Director for Te Puni Kokiri, Independent Director for the National Hauora Coalition, Chief Executive at Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi, and other governance roles on key health and social service boards.
Te Rōpu will officially start as Chief Executive for Rangitāmiro on 8 September 2025.
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