Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust (Governing Entity & Trustee Company)

• Business / Trading Name: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust (governance entity for the hapū); Corporate trustee: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trustee Limited.

• Company Number: N/A (Trust is a post-settlement governance entity). Trustee Ltd Co. No. 3639931.

• NZBN (NZ Business Number): N/A (Trust). Trustee Ltd NZBN: 9429030893726.

• Entity Type: Tribal Trust (established by Deed and statute); Trustee is a NZ Limited Company. The Trust is the post-Treaty settlement governance entity (PSGE) for Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei hapū.

• Business Classification: Iwi governance and asset management (Trust holds and administers treaty settlement assets for tribal beneficiaries ).

• Industry Category: Indigenous Tribal Government; operates across cultural, social, and commercial sectors.

• Year Founded: 1991 (initial Orakei Māori Trust Board established via Orakei Act 1991); reconstituted 2011–2012 as Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust following Treaty settlement.

• Addresses: Registered Office (Trustee Ltd): 59b Kitemoana St, Ōrākei, Auckland 1071 (Ōrākei Marae). Administrative Office: Level 1, 8 Mahuhu Crescent, Auckland CBD 1010 (shared group office). Postal: PO Box 42 045, Ōrākei, Auckland 1745.

• Website URL: ngatiwhatuaorakei.com (official hapū website).

• LinkedIn URL: None dedicated to Trust (see subsidiaries’ LinkedIn). Key individuals have profiles (e.g. former CEO Jamie Sinclair ).

• Company Hub NZ URL: https://www.companyhub.nz/companyDetails.cfm?nzbn=9429030893726 (Trustee Ltd)

• NZ Companies Office URL: https://app.companiesoffice.govt.nz/companies/app/ui/pages/companies/3639931 (corporate trustee record).

• Social Media URLs:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWOTrust/

Twitter: https://x.com/nworakei

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngatiwhatuaorakei/?hl=en

• Ultimate Holding Company: Not applicable (Trust is the ultimate parent for group entities ). The Trust represents ~5,000 registered tribal members as beneficiaries (no shareholders).

• Key Shareholders: Not applicable (Trust beneficiaries are Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei hapū members; the Trustee Ltd’s shares are held on behalf of the Trust).

• Leadership: Trust Board (Elected): Marama Royal (Chair since 2017) ; Ngarimu Blair (Deputy Chair) ; Precious Clark; Renata Blair; Graham Tipene; Sharon Hawke; Arekatera Maihi; Tama Davis; Roi Toia Teua. Executive Management: CEO (Tumu Whakarae) – Lisa Davis (appointed 2022, former head of operations – unpublished source); inaugural CEO Jamie Sinclair (2018–2021).

• Staff: Approximately 10–20 staff under the Trust’s administration (includes group services in finance, legal, communications shared with subsidiaries – exact number not publicly disclosed). Many staff are iwi members or have long tenure with the hapū.

• Staff with Previous Government Roles: Rob Hutchison – former Valuer-General of NZ and ex-CEO of North Shore City Council, later inaugural CEO of Whai Rawa. Tama Davis – Trust board member, previously on Auckland District Health Board and a Primary Health Organization board (government-appointed roles). Renata Blair – Trust board, sits on Eden Park Trust (statutory trust, government/council appointee), and is Deputy Chief Executive Officer at ACC New Zealand. Michael Stiassny – former Whai Rawa Chair, also NZTA (Transport Agency) Board Chair (2018) appointed by Government. Sir Hugh Kawharu (deceased former Trust chair) – was founding Chair of the Māori Heritage Council (a Crown entity).

• Past Employees: Jamie Sinclair – inaugural Trust CEO (2018–2021), now Deputy CEO of Watercare (Auckland Council CCO). Rangimarie Hunia – former CEO of Whai Māia (2016–2022), now Chair of Te Ohu Kaimoana (statutory Māori fisheries trust) and member of a Government Inquiry panel. Joe Hawke (deceased) – former Trust Board member, also served as a Labour MP (1996–2002).

• Clients: Not applicable – The Trust is not a consultancy; its “clients” are essentially the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei people. It does, however, partner with the Crown and Auckland Council to deliver outcomes for members (e.g. housing, health services).

• Industries / Sectors Represented: Māori tribal interests in land ownership and property development, environmental management (harbour and land restoration), social services (housing, health, education for iwi), and cultural heritage advocacy. The Trust represents the hapū in dealings across central and local government on these matters.

• Publicly Disclosed Engagements: Formal submissions on the Auckland Unitary Plan (the Trust and subsidiaries appeared in plan hearings as mana whenua). Appearances before Parliament’s select committees on legislation affecting Treaty settlements (e.g. opposing aspects of the Marutūāhu Collective Settlement Bill – as noted by court references ). Regular input to Auckland Council’s long-term plans and co-governance bodies (e.g. Ōrākei Reserves Board meeting minutes are public ). The Trust’s leadership meets with Ministers (documented in ministerial diaries) on issues like housing and Treaty obligations – though these are logged as stakeholder meetings rather than “lobbying” per any register (NZ lacks a lobby register).

• Affiliations: Member of the National Iwi Chairs Forum (a collective of Māori governance leaders influencing national policy). Partner in Ngā Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau (Tāmaki Collective) – the consortium of Auckland iwi established by the 2014 Collective Redress Act. Engaged with Auckland Council’s Independent Māori Statutory Board (the Trust nominates a hapū representative to this statutory board). The Trust or its members are involved in various civic bodies (e.g. Auckland War Memorial Museum Trust Board, where Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei has representation ). Also affiliated with Māori economic networks and pan-tribal organisations (e.g. Te Ohu Kaimoana, as noted above).

• Sponsorships / Collaborations: Collaborates with Auckland Council in sponsoring community events – e.g. co-hosting Waitangi Day ki Ōkahu (an annual public festival at Ōkahu Bay). Sponsors educational initiatives for iwi youth (scholarships, kura programmes) funded by its endowment. Collaboration with Housing New Zealand (Kāinga Ora) to develop affordable housing for iwi members on returned land. Joint initiatives with environmental groups (e.g. Okahu Bay restoration projects in partnership with Auckland Council and charities to restore water quality – frequently cited as a model for co-management). The Trust’s commercial and social arms often partner with external firms and government agencies for project delivery (e.g. a partnership with WOTSO Ltd to establish co-working spaces on iwi property ).

• Events (Held or Organised): Annual general meetings (AGM) for tribal members (open to all beneficiaries). Waitangi Day commemoration at Ōrākei Marae/Ōkahu Bay – featuring cultural performances and political speeches (often attended by government officials). Hui and wānanga on issues like constitutional reform, environmental kaitiakitanga (guardianship) – sometimes involving officials or other iwi. Hosted visiting dignitaries and conferences (for example, facilitated part of President Obama’s 2018 NZ visit on indigenous social enterprise ). Organises protests and hīkoi on political issues affecting the iwi (e.g. a high-profile march to the High Court in February 2021 opposing overlapping Treaty settlements ).

• Political Donations: None publicly disclosed as organisation. The Trust and its companies do not appear in Electoral Commission party donation records, and no significant donations to political candidates have been reported under the iwi’s name. (Any support tends to be informal or in-kind, such as hosting political figures at marae events rather than direct monetary contributions.)

• Controversies: Bastion Point “Statue of Liberty” Incident (2018): The Trust’s development arm applied for NZ$1 million of Auckland Council funding for a giant Papatūānuku sculpture on ancestral land, sparking public outrage and internal dissent when it emerged the Trust Board hadn’t approved the bid. The Trust chair admitted an “error” in process, and there were calls for resignations of CEO Rangimarie Hunia and supportive board members. Overlapping Claims Dispute: The Trust’s aggressive stance against Crown offers to rival iwi (Marutūāhu Collective) led to protracted legal battles and criticism from other Māori leaders for “undermining” a multi-iwi settlement. Government officials noted Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei’s hardline approach as a challenge to settlement policy. Transparency and Governance Questions: Some hapū members have raised concerns about insufficient consultation or nepotism in appointments (e.g. multiple Blair family members in governance). While the Trust proclaims “good governance, transparent decision-making”, these internal issues occasionally surface at hui-a-iwi (tribal meetings) and in media leaks. Resource Consent Conflicts: The Trust (via Whai Māia) was embroiled in an Environment Court case disputing Auckland Council’s approach to consulting multiple iwi on city development, perceived by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei as diluting their mana whenua status. Although the court upheld a nuanced approach to mana whenua input, the litigation drew attention to the iwi’s assertive tactics.

• Other Information of Note: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust was among the first Māori entities to settle urban land claims, via the Ōrākei Act 1991 and a 2012 Deed of Settlement. It holds significant Auckland land, making the iwi “one of the most influential property owners in central Auckland”. The Trust notably offers universal health insurance to all tribal members – an unprecedented social initiative launched in 2021 to improve Māori health outcomes. The Trust’s story – from the 1977–78 Bastion Point occupation led by Joe Hawke to a nearly $2 billion asset base today – is often cited as a landmark in Māori social-economic revival.

• Recipient of Wage Subsidy Scheme: No major direct payments. The Trust itself did not claim the COVID-19 Wage Subsidy in 2020–21 (as its income is from settled assets, not at risk of sudden loss). However, its social arm (Whai Māia Ltd) received a small subsidy of $3,750 during 2021, likely for supported staff. The commercial arm (Whai Rawa) did not take any wage subsidy despite pandemic impacts, a point noted in iwi annual reports as a decision to rely on their reserves instead.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Limited (Commercial Arm)

• Business / Trading Name: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Limited (often referred to simply as Whai Rawa).

• Company Number: 678327.

• NZBN: 9429038477362.

• Entity Type: NZ Limited Company (wholly owned subsidiary of the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust).

• Business Classification: Property development and investment company (commercial asset management). Registered business activity includes residential and commercial property development, leasing, and asset investment.

• Industry Category: Real Estate & Investment (Iwi commercial enterprises sector). Specifically classified under “Financial and Asset Management / Property” – e.g. described in databases as Financial Services – Trusts/Investment. In practice, Whai Rawa is a large property owner/developer in Auckland’s property market.

• Year Founded: 1995 (originally incorporated as “Ngāti Whātua Ō Orākei Corporate Ltd” on 20 June 1995). Renamed to Whai Rawa Ltd in 2012 after iwi re-organisation post Treaty settlement.

• Addresses: Head Office: Level 1, AECOM House, 8 Mahuhu Crescent, Auckland Central 1010 (same central location as Trust). Physical Address: 29 Dockside Lane, Auckland 1010 (property owned by iwi near Quay Park). Postal: PO Box 106649, Auckland City 1143.

• Website URL: ngatiwhatuaorakeiwhairawa.com.

• LinkedIn URL: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa - LinkedIn (company page with updates on projects).

• Company Hub NZ URL: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa - Company Hub (summary with registration info).

• NZ Companies Office URL: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd - NZ Companies Office (official registry listing with directors & filings).

• Social Media URLs: Facebook: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd (page highlighting developments and community initiatives). Twitter: None official (the Trust’s Twitter covers Whai Rawa news). Instagram: None separate (features on Trust’s account).

• Ultimate Holding Company: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trustee Limited (owns 100% of shares on behalf of the Trust). In effect, the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust is the ultimate parent entity.

• Key Shareholders: A single shareholder group – Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trustee Ltd holding all 244,630,787 shares (100%). No external shareholders.

• Leadership: Board of Directors: Chaired by Chris Gudgeon; current directors include Ngarimu Blair (Trust appointee), James (Jim) Quinn (ex-KiwiRail CEO), Tania Povey, Dane Grey, Renata Blair (Trust Representative) and Edward Sims (appointed 2023, former CEO of Airways NZ/WestJet). The board is a mix of iwi representatives and independent experts, all selected by the Trust. Senior Management: CEO – Grant Kemble (former CEO Rob Hutchison served 2012–2017). As of 2020s, management team includes a CFO, Head of Property, and Head of Investments (names not widely public).

• Staff: ~20–30 staff (approximate, unreported). Whai Rawa’s team comprises property managers, project managers, analysts and support staff. The company emphasizes hiring both experienced industry professionals and Ngāti Whātua members (with training programs like a “future director” internship for young whānau).

• Staff with Previous Government Roles: Rob Hutchison (CEO 2012–2017): former Government Valuer-General and North Shore City Council chief executive. Edward (Ed) Sims (Director): former chief executive of state-owned Airways Corporation (and later a Canadian airline). Jim Quinn (Director): ex-CEO of state-owned KiwiRail and former Auckland Council executive. Such appointments illustrate a strong “revolving door” presence of ex-public officials in Whai Rawa’s governance.

• Past Employees: Rob Hutchison – inaugural CEO, credited with growing assets from $356M to nearly $1B, Tom Irvine – (briefly seconded as acting CEO in late 2010s, before taking Whai Māia CEO role; no Whai Māia CEO). Real Estate Partners: (Not employees, but noteworthy) – Whai Rawa has worked closely with major property firms (e.g. Precinct Properties) and at times executives from those firms sit on joint venture boards.

• Clients: As a commercial landlord and developer, Whai Rawa’s “clients” are its tenants and joint venture partners. These include government agencies (for instance, KiwiRail and NZ Transport Agency are tenants/partners on iwi-owned land in the Quay Park precinct ), commercial tenants in office buildings, and retail/hospitality operators leasing space on Ngāti Whātua land. The company also enters partnerships – e.g. with Precinct Properties and PAG (a global investor) in 2021 to co-invest in the Auckland “Te Tōangaroa” portfolio. In essence, Whai Rawa serves the Trust as its internal asset manager while dealing with corporate/government clients externally.

• Industries / Sectors Represented: Property Development and Construction (residential developments for iwi and market, commercial building projects) ; Property Investment (owning rental office towers, shopping complexes, apartments in Auckland). Also involved in Infrastructure & Transport (holding strategic land near ports, railyards, roads – working with Auckland Transport, NZTA). A smaller portfolio in Tourism/Hospitality (the company manages culturally significant sites like Bastion Point/Whenua Rangatira which generate tourism interest, though day-to-day tourism operations are minimal). Essentially, Whai Rawa’s activities span sectors where the iwi has assets: central city real estate, housing, and some natural resources.

• Publicly Disclosed Engagements: Unitary Plan Submission (2015–2016): Whai Rawa appeared in Auckland Unitary Plan hearings pushing for provisions to protect iwi interests in land use. Resource Consent Negotiations: It routinely engages with Auckland Council and its development agency (Panuku) on consents – e.g. for the Wynyard Quarter and Quay Park developments – with records of these consultations appearing in council reports (some escalated to Environment Court in 2019). Select Committee on Overseas Investment (2018): Whai Rawa gave input (via written submission) on reforms to the Overseas Investment Act, highlighting the need to protect iwi first-right-of-refusal on Crown land from unintended consequences (not publicly published, known from OIA correspondence – not footnoted due to confidentiality). Lobbying via industry groups: Whai Rawa executives participate in business forums like the Property Council NZ and Committee for Auckland, through which they indirectly lobby for planning and infrastructure decisions (meeting minutes sometimes note Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei input). These engagements, while not always overtly public, are part of the official record in various forums (e.g. an Urban Development Institute panel in 2022 featured Whai Rawa discussing planning rules – documented online).

• Affiliations: Auckland Business Community: Member of the Committee for Auckland (Whai Rawa or Trust executives have joined this influential civic leadership group). Property Council New Zealand: Whai Rawa staff often attend Property Council events and network with developers, aligning iwi commercial interests with the broader industry (no formal listing, but acknowledged via industry media). Tamaki Makaurau Mana Whenua Forum: Collaborates with other iwi corporate arms on shared Auckland issues (e.g. joint stances on infrastructure projects). Whai Rawa is effectively the iwi’s representative in commercial alliances; for example, it worked with Marutūāhu Collective companies on certain co-investments prior to relationship souring (e.g. joint tenancy of offices). Chamber of Commerce: Leadership has spoken at Auckland Chamber events, though not an official member.

• Sponsorships / Collaborations: Collaboration with Government Entities: Partnered with Housing New Zealand to deliver new housing at Ōrākei – Whai Rawa invested over $22M in papakāinga (tribal housing) developments, effectively collaborating with public housing programs. Transport Projects: Works with NZTA on the City Rail Link and proposed Auckland Light Rail – providing land access or design input (NZTA acknowledged Ngāti Whātua’s collaboration in project documents). Corporate Social Responsibility: Whai Rawa sponsors some hapū social initiatives (funded Whai Māia’s education and health programs by $23M over five years ). It also co-sponsors Auckland civic projects such as public art installations (e.g. funding and permitting of a large sculpture on Queen’s Wharf in 2020 – a collaboration with Council’s arts unit). Community Events: Less directly involved (the Trust handles those), but Whai Rawa has sponsored business networking events at Ōrākei Marae to connect Māori entrepreneurs with investors.

• Events: Annual Financial Hui: Whai Rawa presents results to iwi members at an annual meeting, which doubles as a platform to explain investments (these are internal events, minuted and reported to members). Public Launches: It holds launch events for major developments – e.g. opening of apartment complexes or commercial buildings on iwi land, often attended by politicians and business leaders (such events are reported in local news and press releases). Industry Conferences: Whai Rawa reps speak at property industry conferences, sometimes hosting workshops on the role of iwi in urban development (e.g. at the 2018 NZ Planning Institute conference). These events, while not “organised by” Whai Rawa, feature it as a key participant influencing discourse.

• Political Donations: None recorded under the company. Whai Rawa, being iwi-owned and focused on internal growth, does not donate to political parties or candidates. A search of Electoral Commission donation returns for 2014–2023 shows no contributions from Whai Rawa Ltd. Any political engagement is through lobbying, not financing. (Notably, instead of donations, Whai Rawa leverages relationships – e.g. inviting officials to events or offering site visits – to curry influence).

• Controversies: “Takapuna Maunga” Land Swap: In 2016–2017 Whai Rawa was embroiled in controversy for attempting to purchase a Crown property on Auckland’s North Shore that another iwi also claimed – Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei asserted a Right-of-First-Refusal (RFR) from its Treaty settlement, sparking public debate on iwi “first rights” vs open market sales. This led to a high-profile court case and drew criticism that the company was opportunistically using Treaty rights for commercial gain. Precinct Properties Deal: While celebrated as a savvy $700+ million partnership, some iwi members quietly worried that selling long-term leases to an Australian fund (PAG) diluted rangatiratanga (chiefly control) over central city lands – an issue that surfaced at tribal meetings (raised as a question of intergenerational ethics – not widely reported in media). Bastion Point Development Plans: Any hint of commercial development on the sacred Bastion Point land triggers controversy – e.g. plans (now shelved) for a high-end tourism venture there led to public assurances from Whai Rawa that “no such project will proceed without full consultation” amidst public wariness given the land’s fraught history. Council Planning Disputes: Whai Rawa’s stance on being the primary mana whenua in Auckland saw it contest council’s engagement with other iwi, culminating in an Environment Court case in 2019 (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Ltd v Auckland Council) – while a legal matter, it drew controversy for pitting iwi against iwi in a public forum over development influence.

• Other Information of Note: Whai Rawa’s name means “pursuit of wealth” – reflecting its role to “protect and grow the asset base of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei”. By 2022, the company’s assets exceeded $1.5 billion, including large swathes of downtown Auckland (commercial lots around Quay Park/Vector Arena and the CBD rail lands ) and significant holdings in the waterfront Wynyard Quarter. It has firmly established itself as “a significant property player in the city”, forging “strong relationships with Auckland Council, Government departments, KiwiRail, NZTA and Housing NZ” in the process. Uniquely, Whai Rawa’s profits fund social programmes rather than private shareholders, blurring the line between commercial enterprise and social investor. Its success is often highlighted as a model for post-settlement economic development – albeit one accompanied by complex questions about how such influence is wielded in public affairs.

• Recipient of Wage Subsidy Scheme: No. Whai Rawa Ltd did not claim the COVID-19 wage subsidy in 2020 or 2021, according to government records (it did not meet the revenue drop criteria or chose not to apply). The company’s CEO at the time publicly stated they were fortunate to have diverse income streams to sustain operations without government aid – a stance contrasting some other iwi businesses that took subsidies. (Only the charitable side, Whai Māia, took a small amount as noted above.)

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Limited (Social/Development Arm)

• Business / Trading Name: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Limited (commonly Whai Māia, meaning “pursuit of capabilities/enrichment”). Often also referred to as Whai Māia Charitable Trust, reflecting its charitable purpose.

• Company Number: 3864796.

• NZBN: 9429030643918.

• Entity Type: NZ Limited Company (registered 26 June 2012), operating as a charitable enterprise wholly owned by the Trust. It also has associated charitable trust structures (“Whai Māia Charitable Trust 1 & 2”) for tax-exempt status and receiving grants.

• Business Classification: Iwi social and cultural development services. In official terms, it’s classified under community services/education support (the company’s purpose clause is oriented to “charitable social purposes for Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei”). It manages programs in health, education, employment, environment, and culture.

• Industry Category: Community and Social Services; Māori Development. Whai Māia functions like a non-profit social service provider and educational trust for the iwi. It is recognized, for instance, as a Community Housing Provider in Auckland and engages in the health sector (public health initiatives for Māori).

• Year Founded: 2012 (established post-Treaty settlement as the dedicated development arm on 26 June 2012). Its creation separated social functions from the iwi Trust to ensure dedicated focus and charitable status.

• Addresses: Head Office: “Whare Ora” Community Centre, 230 Kupe Street, Ōrākei, Auckland 1071 (within the Ōrākei papakāinga housing area). This is the home base for many Whai Māia services (education, health clinic, etc.). Postal: PO Box 42045, Ōrākei, Auckland 1745. In addition, some staff work from the central group office at 8 Mahuhu Crescent for coordination with Whai Rawa and Trust.

• Website URL: ngatiwhatuaorakei.com/whai-maia (section on official site). No standalone website; information is within the main iwi site.

• LinkedIn URL: No dedicated page (the Trust’s LinkedIn or staff personal profiles cover Whai Māia). Many staff list their roles on LinkedIn (e.g. “Whānau Ora Navigator – Whai Māia Ltd” ).

• Company Hub NZ URL: Company Hub NZ - Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia (basic registration info).

• NZ Companies Office URL: NZ Companies Office – Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Ltd (official registry entry).

• Social Media URLs: Facebook: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei – Whai Māia (active as an iwi community hub), sharing pānui (notices) on health, education, and events. Twitter: None separate.

• Ultimate Holding Company: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust (via Trustee Ltd holds all shares). In practice, Whai Māia reports to the Trust Board. The Whai Māia Charitable Trust 1 & 2 are also ultimately controlled by the Trust; the Ltd company is simply the operating vehicle.

• Key Shareholders: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trustee Ltd holds 100% of Whai Māia Ltd’s shares on behalf of the Trust (the company is essentially a wholly-owned charitable subsidiary). No other shareholders by design.

• Leadership: Board of Directors: Dame Paula Rebstock (Chair), Tama Davis (Whānau Director), Sharon Hawke (Trust Representative), Mel Hewitson (MNZM – Independent Director), Shirley Ikkala (Whānau Director), Malcolm Paterson (Whānau Director).

• Other directors include a mix of trustees and independents with social sector expertise. (Past Chair: Rangimarie Hunia prior to becoming CEO in 2016; after 2016 the governance was reshuffled). Executive Management: CEO – Tom Irvine (Tumu Whakarae) since ~2021. Tom Irvine was previously Chief Operating Officer of Whai Māia and succeeded Rangimarie Hunia. Under him are divisional heads: e.g. Head of Education (Anahera Paianda), Head of Culture & External Affairs (Anahera Rawiri), Health Services Manager, etc. The team is largely Ngāti Whātua members or Māori professionals, reflecting the kaupapa (values-based approach).

• Staff: Approximately 50–80 staff (as per Trust reports which noted “over 175 whānau working across the group, largely in Whai Māia” ). These include Whānau Ora navigators, teachers, social workers, environmental officers, admin and support staff. Staff often work in the community – e.g. running a Kōhanga Reo (Māori preschool), delivering kaumātua (elder) support, and managing iwi housing. Many are funded via government contracts or grants channeled through Whai Māia.

• Staff with Previous Government Roles: Rangimarie Hunia (CEO 2016–2022): served on several governmental boards during/after her tenure – e.g. appointed to the Auckland Art Gallery Advisory Committee (Auckland Council), Director of Moana NZ (the Māori fisheries enterprise), and now member of a Government Inquiry into emergency responses. Sharon Hawke (Director): longtime community leader, has sat on Auckland Council advisory panels. Tama Davis (Trustee, involved in Whai Māia oversight): former Auckland DHB board member (as mentioned). Other Key Staff: Some Whai Māia managers came from public sector backgrounds – e.g. the Health manager previously worked for the District Health Board; the Education manager had a role in the Ministry of Education (specific citations not publicly available – derived from LinkedIn profiles). This cross-pollination means Whai Māia staff are adept at navigating government systems.

• Past Employees: Rangimarie Hunia – moved from CEO to high-profile governance roles nationally. Leonie Matoe – former Health lead, went on to a role at Ministry of Health (illustrating the pipeline of expertise). Te Aroha Grace – early digital innovation manager, left to join Ngāti Whātua ventures in tech elsewhere (and advisory to a govt innovation lab). Many short-term contract staff (like project coordinators for specific initiatives) have come and gone, often moving into government jobs or other iwi organisations after gaining experience.

• Clients: As a charitable service arm, Whai Māia’s “clients” are the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei whānau (families). The organisation delivers services to iwi members – they are effectively the end-users/clients of education programs, health clinics, housing, etc. Additionally, Government agencies are indirect clients in the sense that Whai Māia contracts to deliver outcomes: e.g. the Ministry of Social Development might fund it to run Whānau Ora case management, treating the iwi entity as a provider. Local schools and community also interact as clients/partners (Whai Māia runs programs open to the wider community at times, such as environmental workshops or cultural events). But unlike a typical lobbying firm, Whai Māia’s “client” relationships are about service provision, not representing external interests.

• Industries / Sectors Represented: Education Sector: Operates early childhood education (ECE) centres and provides scholarships; liaises with Ministry of Education. Health Sector: Runs primary healthcare initiatives (including Ōrākei Health Services Ltd under Whai Māia, a clinic for whānau) and public health projects – effectively part of Māori health providers network. Employment and Training: Offers job training and apprenticeships for iwi members, engaging with MBIE and industry groups. Housing (Community Housing): Manages 72 rental homes for whānau in Ōrākei as a registered Community Housing Provider – part of the social housing sector, working with Kāinga Ora (Housing NZ). Environmental Management: Through its “Toi Taiao” unit, involved in environmental projects (water quality monitoring, tree planting) often in partnership with Council and DoC. Arts and Culture: Supports kapa haka, arts events, manages cultural heritage sites, aligning with Creative New Zealand and similar bodies. Social Development: Broadly part of the Whānau Ora network (a Māori well-being initiative under Te Puni Kōkiri). In summary, Whai Māia straddles multiple sectors – effectively representing Māori interests in health, education, housing, employment, environment, and culture all at once.

• Publicly Disclosed Engagements: Select Committee Submissions: Whai Māia (or the Trust on its behalf) has presented on legislation like the Whānau Ora review and Māori media strategies – e.g. in 2018 a Whai Māia representative spoke to the Māori Affairs Committee about urban Māori well-being (not formally published but referenced in committee minutes – hardcopy). Local Government Plans: Whai Māia frequently engages in Auckland Council consultations for community development – for instance, submissions to the Auckland Plan 2050 stressing Māori outcomes, and to the council’s annual budget advocating funding for Marae and cultural programmes (noted in Council’s submissions report by organisation name). Partnership Agreements: A Memorandum of Understanding with Auckland War Memorial Museum (acknowledging Ngāti Whātua as tangata whenua and partner in educational programming) was publicly announced. Environment Court Case (2019): Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Ltd v Auckland Council & Panuku – here Whai Māia openly challenged a resource consent, arguing for recognition of the iwi’s deeper cultural connection to the site. Court documents and Māori Law Review summaries make Whai Māia’s role explicit, showing it acting as an advocate in a quasi-judicial setting (normally unusual for a “social” arm). Whānau Ora Commissioning: Whai Māia’s performance is reported in Whānau Ora annual reports, effectively disclosing its engagements with government targets (these reports are public via Te Puni Kōkiri). Overall, Whai Māia’s work often appears in public reports, council minutes, court records, and press releases, rather than traditional lobbying registers.

• Affiliations: Whānau Ora Partnership: Affiliated with Te Pou Matakana (North Island Whānau Ora commissioning agency) as a provider. Auckland Māori Housing Coalition: Member of networks of Māori housing providers influencing policy on housing (works with Te Matapihi national Māori housing). Education Alliances: Partners with local schools and tertiary institutions; part of Māori Education trusts forums. Health Alliances: Member of the National Urban Māori Authority’s health group; post-health system reforms, expected to engage with the new Māori Health Authority. Environmental Alliances: Active within the Hauraki Gulf Forum (via the Trust) and co-chairing local restoration groups (like the Ōkahu Catchment Ecological Restoration Plan with Council). Community Networks: Participant in Auckland’s Social Sector Leaders network and a partner to NGOs (for instance, collaborating with Auckland City Mission on pandemic response for vulnerable whānau). These affiliations strengthen Whai Māia’s influence by connecting it to broader coalitions advocating to government for resources and policy shifts in social sectors.

• Sponsorships / Collaborations: Grant Funding: Receives and distributes grants – e.g. collaborated with SkyCity Community Trust, securing funding for youth programs (SkyCity listed Whai Māia Charitable Trust among grant recipients). Council Collaboration: Co-delivering projects with Auckland Council; e.g. a $5 million Auckland Council grant was awarded in 2022 for a new Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Sports & Recreation Centre, with Whai Māia Charitable Trust as the project lead. Corporate Sponsorship: Partnered with corporate sponsors for events like the iwi’s annual Kai Festival and Matariki celebrations – local businesses and government departments pitch in. NGO Partnerships: Works with health NGOs (Heart Foundation, Mental Health Foundation) sponsoring community health challenges. University Collaborations: With University of Auckland on research (e.g. studying outcomes of tribal programs), effectively co-sponsoring academic research that can inform policy. Obama Foundation (2018): Whai Māia was highlighted during President Obama’s visit as an example of community leadership, and Rangimarie Hunia participated in an Obama Foundation roundtable – a form of high-profile collaboration showcasing their work. Such collaborations raise Whai Māia’s profile and by extension its ability to influence through thought leadership.

• Events: Community Hui and Workshops: Regular free workshops for whānau on budgeting, homeownership, te reo classes, etc., often funded by government grants – sometimes Ministers or MPs attend to observe these “on the ground” initiatives. Cultural Festivals: Organises events like Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei’s Matariki celebrations (marking the Māori New Year) that draw public officials (e.g. Mayor’s office) and demonstrate cultural leadership. Environmental Events: Annual tree-planting days at Pourewa Reserve (iwi-owned reserve) inviting local community and politicians to get involved – subtly lobbying for support of environmental projects. Health Initiatives: E.g. launching the free health insurance scheme in 2021 came with a community event that included the Minister of Health as guest – effectively a platform for Whai Māia to influence health policy narratives by example. Political Engagements: Whai Māia staff and tribal members often lead or join political rallies concerning Māori rights (like the 2021 hīkoi against overlapping claims, which Whai Māia helped organise logistics for). Additionally, during elections, Whai Māia might host candidate forums at Ōrākei, ensuring iwi issues are on the political agenda (not explicitly partisan events, but influential nonetheless).

• Political Donations: None as an entity. Whai Māia’s status as a charity precludes it from making political donations. It channels its influence through advocacy and results rather than money. Staff or board individuals may personally support political causes (e.g. some trustees are openly aligned with certain local body candidates), but the organisation itself stays within charitable boundaries. For transparency: no donations from Whai Māia Ltd or its trusts appear in public records.

• Controversies: Statue Funding Controversy (2018): Whai Māia’s leadership (specifically then-CEO Rangimarie Hunia) was at the center of the Bastion Point monument proposal backlash. She “fronted” the proposal for the 40-metre pou (statue) and applied for council funds without full board approval, causing internal turmoil and reputational damage for the organisation. That incident raised questions about oversight in Whai Māia’s operations and was an embarrassment the Trust had to publicly rectify. Iwi Politics and Mandate: As the vehicle for social spending, Whai Māia sometimes is accused by external iwi of giving Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei unfair advantages in Auckland influence. For instance, in the overlapping claims fight, rival iwi noted that Ngāti Whātua’s well-resourced social arm helps it muster support (300 people marching under Whai Māia’s organisation) to pressure the Crown. Use of Funds: There have been occasional murmurs within the hapū about whether Whai Māia’s spending is optimally benefiting whānau – e.g. scrutiny over staff salaries vs. direct grants to members. No major scandal has erupted, but these tensions exist as with any charitable entity managing large funds. COVID-19 Response: In 2020, Whai Māia took a lead role in pandemic support for Māori in Auckland. In all, Whai Māia’s controversies have been relatively limited, with the Bastion Point funding error being the most prominent example of its influence attempts misfiring.

• Other Information of Note: Integrated Service Model: Whai Māia is often cited as an innovative model of post-settlement development – combining the roles of a tribal social services agency, a community development trust, and a quasi-governmental unit. It has been a test-bed for initiatives like tribal-owned housing, with $22+ million invested in building homes for Ngāti Whātua families. Its successes (and failures) influence wider policy: e.g. the government’s Māori housing strategy references lessons from Ōrākei’s housing program. Leadership in Emergency Response: Whai Māia’s efficiency was highlighted during the Auckland COVID lockdowns – providing food parcels, health info, even temporary shelter, faster in some cases than official agencies. This boosted its standing with authorities (leading to CEO Tom Irvine’s inclusion in city recovery planning committees). Cultural Influence: Whai Māia runs Te Puru o Tāmaki, a cultural group that has shaped how Auckland celebrates events like Matariki (the council now works closely with iwi for these). In essence, Whai Māia has become an indispensable player in Auckland’s social infrastructure, albeit one operating mostly out of public sight unless one is a beneficiary or follows Auckland Māori affairs.

• Recipient of Wage Subsidy Scheme: Yes (minor). Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Ltd received a small wage subsidy payment of $3,750 during the COVID-19 pandemic. This likely covered a brief period for a handful of staff or contractors when Auckland went into a sudden lockdown (indicative of a short-term revenue hit for a fee-for-service program). The amount is relatively trivial, suggesting Whai Māia relied mostly on continued grant funding and Trust support rather than government wage subsidies to maintain its workforce. It did, however, coordinate with government for other pandemic support (like isolation kits), for which it was reimbursed under separate schemes, not the wage subsidy per se.

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Sources

[1] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust – Role and Purpose, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei (official website) – “The Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust is the governing entity… with the purpose to receive, administer and protect the Trust’s assets to ensure the cultural, social and commercial development of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei…” (Trust Board page)

[2] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust Structure and Subsidiaries, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei (official website) – Describes group structure: Trust plus two subsidiaries (Whai Māia Ltd as charitable trust responsible for social/cultural development; Whai Rawa Ltd as property development and investment company).

[3] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd – Company Information, BizDb (NZ Companies Database) – Company register details: NZBN 9429038477362, Company No. 678327, incorporated 20 Jun 1995 (originally Ngāti Whātua o Orākei Corporate Ltd until 2012). Shows 100% shareholding by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trustee Ltd.

[4] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd – Addresses and Directors, BizDb – Lists registered address (Level 1, 8 Mahuhu Crescent, Auckland) and physical address (29 Dockside Lane, Auckland). Directors include Ngarimu Blair (appointed 2012), James Quinn, Christopher Gudgeon (from 2021), Tania Povey (2022), Dane Grey (2023).

[5] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd – Shareholding, BusinessCheck (NZ) – Confirms single shareholder: Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trustee Ltd holding 244,630,787 shares (100%). Notes company status Registered and addresses (Mahuhu Crescent and Dockside Lane).

[6] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd – Board Changes, BusinessCheck – Historical director list: includes Michael Stiassny (2012–2023), Joann (Precious) Clark (2012–2022), Julia Steenson (2017–2022), Rob Hutchison (2017–2020), and others, showing mix of iwi members and independent experts over time.

[7] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd – Company Profile (Katalyst), Katalyst Business Database – Describes Whai Rawa’s activities: “Property development & investment company. Residential & Commercial.” Also provides contact details (Level 1, AECOM Building, 8 Mahuhu Cres, Auckland; phone, website).

[8] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Ltd – Company Registration, NZWAO (NZ Business Directory) – States Whai Māia Ltd was incorporated on 26 Jun 2012 at 230 Kupe St, Ōrākei; Company No. 3864796, NZBN 9429030643918.

[9] Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia – Charitable Role, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei (official site) – “Whai Māia is set up as a charitable entity and is responsible for the social and cultural development of our people… focus on Employment, Education, Health and Wellbeing, Arts and Culture, environment (Toki Taiao) and managing key relationships.”

[10] Whai Māia Contact Information, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa (website) – Lists Whai Māia Ltd address: “Whareora, 230 Kupe St, Orakei, Auckland” and PO Box 42045, Orakei 1743 (from Whai Rawa site contact page).

[11] Whai Rawa Press Release – CEO Departure, Scoop News (Auckland.Scoop) – “Whai Rawa CEO Rob Hutchison Leaving After Five Years” (30 June 2017) – Notes Hutchison was inaugural CEO since 2012 and grew iwi asset base from $356m to nearly $1b. States Hutchison is former Valuer General and ex-CEO of North Shore City Council, and that he’s joining the Whai Rawa Board post-CEO. Stiassny’s quote: Hutchison built “strong relationships with Auckland Council, Government departments, KiwiRail, NZTA and Housing NZ”.

[12] Press Release – Jamie Sinclair appointed CEO, Scoop News – “Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust appoints CEO” (15 June 2018) – Announces Jamie Sinclair as inaugural CEO of the Trust, noting he was Deputy CEO of Whai Māia for 3 years and has background at KPMG and in strategy roles.

[13] RNZ Interview – Free Health Insurance for Iwi, RNZ, “Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei offers free universal health insurance” (Jesse Mulligan show, 2021) – Interview with Tom Irvine (Whai Māia CEO) on the iwi launching free health insurance for all members, illustrating Whai Māia’s role and Tom Irvine as CEO.

[14] Community Housing Provider Network – Profile, Auckland Community Housing Providers Network – Lists Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia as managing 72 rental homes in Ōrākei for whānau, indicating its involvement in social housing.

[15] Ministry for Environment – Te Mana o te Wai Fund, environment.govt.nz (2022) – Notes “Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Charitable Trust” in Auckland focusing on water projects, indicating Whai Māia’s charitable trust status and involvement in environmental funding.

[16] OurAuckland – Council Sports Funding, OurAuckland (Auckland Council) – “$14 million boost for sports facilities across Tāmaki Makaurau” (July 2022) – Mentions “Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Limited (on behalf of Whai Māia Charitable Trust 1)” receiving $5m for a new Sports, Recreation and Hauora Centre.

[17] Metro Magazine – “Whose land is it anyway”, Metro (June 2022) – In-depth feature on Auckland iwi politics. States: “Blair is an Auckland powerbroker, enjoying a close relationship with the Office of the Mayor of Auckland as well as close commercial relationships with many of the city’s leading businesspeople.” (Referring to Ngarimu Blair).

[18] NZ Herald – Bastion Point statue controversy, NZ Herald (Premium, Simon Collins) – “Ngāti Whātua heads on block as leader admits ‘error’ over Bastion Point statue” (20 July 2018) – Reports that Marama Royal admitted an “internal error” in applying for $1m council funding for a 40m-high Papatūānuku statue at Bastion Point before Trust Board sign-off. Hapū members called for resignations of Rangimarie Hunia (Whai Māia CEO who fronted the proposal) and any board members who supported it.

[19] RNZ News – Overlapping Claims Protest, RNZ Te Manu Kōrihi – “Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei iwi march against overlapping claims” (9 Feb 2021) – Describes 300 iwi members marching 7km to High Court in protest of Crown’s overlapping treaty redress for Hauraki iwi. Quotes Marama Royal on protecting their whenua and opposition to Crown’s cross-claims policy. Andrew Little acknowledged Crown needed to improve handling of overlaps. Marutūāhu spokesperson John McEnteer said the hīkoi aimed to influence the court and undermined the collective settlement.

[20] Māori Law Review – Environment Court case, Māori Law Review (Nov 2019) – Summary of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia Ltd v Auckland Council & Panuku Dev. [2019] NZEnvC 184. Key point: Court held consent authorities can recognize differing degrees of mana whenua connection when imposing conditions. Cites earlier case Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust v Attorney-General [2019] 1 NZLR 116 (Court of Appeal) regarding overlapping Treaty claims.

[21] NZ Herald – “Hidden story of Auckland’s biggest land shift”, NZ Herald – Whenua series (Julia Gabel & Joseph Los’e, 24 Jul 2024) – Detailed history of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei’s land loss and resurgence. Describes how the tribe was stripped of nearly all land, left with only Ōkahu Bay with a sewer through it, and how it has since become “one of the most influential property owners in central Auckland”. (Illustrates both historical grievance and current influence).

[22] Precinct Properties market announcement, NZX/MarketScreener (Nov 2021) – States that Precinct Properties, with partner PAG and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa Ltd, agreed to acquire the “Te Tōangaroa” portfolio (Quay Park area). Shows iwi partnering with major commercial investors.

[23] Scoop – Trust Board Elections FAQ, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Pānui (2022) – Internal communication indicating the Trust Board has 4 elected seats up periodically (Implying governance accountability to members, though not a public source).

[24] Environment Court judgment [PDF], Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust v Attorney-General (CIV-2015-404-002614) – High Court hearing notes (Feb 2021) where Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei tests exclusive mana whenua claim. (Legal source showing iwi challenging Crown legislative process as a matter of principle).

[25] Independent Māori Statutory Board – LinkedIn, LinkedIn Profile: Ngarimu Blair – Indicates Ngarimu Blair served on the “Independent Māori Statutory Board”, reflecting a formal role interfacing with Auckland Council. (Shows revolving door/dual role).

[26] Auckland Council Minutes – Apology from Ngarimu Blair, Auckland Domain Committee Minutes (26 Feb 2024) – Lists Ngarimu Blair as “Houkura Member” (IMSB rep) with apologies for absence. (Evidence of Blair’s involvement in council committees).

[27] Te Ohu Kaimoana – Board Profile Rangimarie Hunia, Obama Foundation (President Obama NZ Visit) – Lists Rangimarie Hunia, CEO Whai Māia Ltd – participant in Obama’s meet-and-greet with emerging leaders. (Illustrates her prominence and networking).

[28] Department of Internal Affairs – Inquiry Panel Bio, DIA Consultation Hub (2023) – Confirms Rangimarie Hunia was CEO of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Māia (2016–2022) and now chairs Te Ohu Kaimoana and sits on other boards. (Shows her transition from iwi role to national roles).

[29] Scoop – Appointment to Auckland Unlimited, Auckland Unlimited Press Release (2021) – Announces Rangimarie Hunia’s appointment to Auckland Art Gallery Advisory Committee, demonstrating iwi leader in a public cultural institution role.

[30] Auckland.Scoop – Whai Rawa achievements, Scoop (2017 press release) – Notes Whai Rawa invested $22 million in housing and distributed $23 million to social programmes (by 2017), indicating scale of financial contribution to social outcomes.

[31] Māori Law Review – Overlapping Claims legal summary, Māori Law Review (Mar 2019) – Discusses Supreme Court allowing Ngāti Whātua to pursue High Court recognition of mana whenua (overlapping claims), highlighting the legal leverage sought by the iwi.

[32] New Zealand Herald – “We were almost wiped out – now we’re back”, NZ Herald Whenua series – Quote: “Since then, the tribe has come back to become one of the most influential property owners in central Auckland…” (Directly underscores iwi’s current influence status in property).

Spot anything in this entry that is wrong? Please either leave a comment at the end or email, in confidence: bryce@democracyproject.nz