41 Appointments to Strengthen Leadership Across NZ’s 12 Community Trusts

The new and reappointed trustees will serve as kaitiaki (guardians) of their respective communities, ensuring that funds are allocated effectively to build resilience and foster local development.

A total of 41 appointments and reappointments have been made to the 12 community trusts across New Zealand, Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones announced today. These trusts, which collectively manage over $3.5 billion in investments and distribute approximately $100 million annually to thousands of organizations, are set to benefit from the diverse expertise and leadership of the new trustees.

“These trusts are vital to building strong and empowered communities across New Zealand, from the Far North to the deep south,” said Mr. Jones. “The appointees bring an exceptional wealth of knowledge and experience across sectors like education, healthcare, business, law, environmental protection, sports, and community development.”

Strengthened Leadership for Regional Growth

The new and reappointed trustees will serve as kaitiaki (guardians) of their respective communities, ensuring that funds are allocated effectively to build resilience and foster local development.

“These individuals will contribute their wisdom and leadership to support a range of initiatives, from grassroots community services to large-scale regional projects. Their work will help ensure strong, connected communities that support New Zealand’s social and economic prosperity,” Mr. Jones said.

The Minister also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing trustees. “I want to extend my gratitude to those who have completed their terms for their dedication and service to their communities. Their work has laid the foundation for the continued success of the trusts,” he said.

Expanded Scope of Community Trusts

The trusts fund initiatives across a variety of sectors, including education, health, environmental sustainability, sports, arts, and cultural development. In recent years, they have also supported projects addressing pressing social issues such as housing, mental health, and climate resilience.

Trustees are tasked with ensuring that grants align with the strategic needs of their communities, balancing short-term impact with long-term investment sustainability.

List of Appointments

Foundation North: Walter Wells, Vijay Goel, Nicholas Albrecht

Waikato Community Trust: Metua Tangaroa-Daniel-Malietoa, Ken Williamson, Mike Garrett, Glenda Taituha-Toka, Sarah Ulmer ONZM

Eastern and Central Community Trust: John Bunny, Rena Kohere, Rodney Wong, Ashleigh Gilmore

Bay of Plenty Community Trust: Tane Phillips, Tania Cutfield, Danielle Auld, Rose Hiha-Agnew, Nicola De Latour

Toi Foundation: Liana Poutu, Dianne Mason

Whanganui Community Fund: Annette Main, Douglas Wynne Wilson, Hinemoa Ransom-Boyd, Kathy Cunningham

Wellington Community Fund: Sophie Tukukino, Madison Burgess-Smith

West Coast Community Trust: Mark Jones

Rātā Foundation: David Jessep, Dean Percy

Community Trust of Mid and South Canterbury: Mark Adams, Rawiri Morunga

Otago Community Trust: Michael Stevens, Rebecca Williams, Jeremy Chang, Stacey Honeywill, Rachel Bird

Community Trust South: Warren Skerrett, Bridgette Smith, Bharat Thakurta, Samuel Grant, Maria Pera, Margot Hishon

Looking Ahead

Mr. Jones emphasized that the new trustees have a crucial role in shaping the future of their regions. “As custodians of their communities, they will lead efforts to distribute funding where it is needed most and ensure that the trusts remain financially sustainable for generations to come.”

With these appointments, the trusts are well-positioned to address current challenges and create lasting opportunities for New Zealanders. The trustees’ work will help ensure that communities continue to thrive through strong leadership, targeted funding, and a shared vision for a prosperous future.