Academic and vocational background
I have more than 25 years’ experience working as a lawyer mainly in the areas of Treaty Claims and Māori Land. I also worked initially in the areas of Criminal and Family Law and have latterly been working in the areas of Immigration and Employment Law.
Since the mid-1980’s I have represented hapū-iwi in relation to local and central government, resource management, consultative processes, hui facilitation, providing leadership, liaison, communication and administration.
I also have considerable experience working on and providing input into various committees and boards over a number of years.
Whakapapa descendancy
My main Hapū/Iwi affiliations are to Ngāti Oneone, Te Aitanga ā Hauiti, Te Whanau ā Kai, Ngā Pōtiki and Te Aitanga ā Māhaki and I also have tribal affiliations to Ngāti Konohi, Ngai Tāmanuhiri, Ngāriki Kaipūtahi, Rongowhakaata, Ngāti Porou and Te Whakatōhea.
Vision for being a part of the committee of management and current role:
I ‘bring’ the following in my role as a member of the Pakarae A and Other Blocks Management Committee. That is:
a. A high level of professional support and assistance in the workings of the committee regarding the long-term business sustainability of Pakarae A and Other Blocks.
b. An interest in areas of diversification, including business opportunities within the takutai moana of Pakarae A and Other Blocks.
c. Support for a ‘green’ and environmentally friendly over-lay to farm operations.
d. Ensuring an equally high-level of excellence and quality of farming out-put, as and when required.
e. Acknowledgement and implementation of tikanga in areas of policy and management.