Tēnā koutou e te whānau

It is with regret that the Board of Trustees of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua have accepted the resignation of Chief Executive Officer, Hemi Toia. Hemi took over the leadership of the Rūnanga as General Manager in 2012, then moved into the role of Chief Executive Officer in July 2013. Prior to that, Hemi held a principal role in Strategy, Governance, Policy and Management as a consultant with Māori corporates, in central government and in the education sector.

After six years with Ngāti Rārua, Hemi has left to concentrate on other projects that he wishes to pursue.

Board Chair Olivia Hall, praises the contribution of Hemi as CEO: “Hemi played a significant role in the political, economic, social and cultural advance of the Rūnanga, demonstrating strong political acumen with representatives of the Crown. He was instrumental in our Treaty of Waitangi Settlement ratification process and the establishment of Tokomaru House, a commercial property which accommodates our offices and blue-chip tenant”. (Picture Insert) Hemi Toia, pictured in 2014 outside the then new Rūnanga offices at Kinross Street, Wairau. Photo by Derek Flynn.

Hemi announced his decision to move on to the Board early October. He often mused that leading the Rūnanga for five or so years would be sufficient time to embed a new strategy and structure to ensure the Rūnanga would succeed into the future. That time has come and the decision to move on has been a big one. The Rūnanga has been a huge part of Hemi’s life. Through all the highs and low, challenges and wins everyone should be very proud as many successes, seen and unseen, have been generated over this time.

During his time at the helm, the iwi has seen major developments in the strategic direction for the Rūnanga. Hemi set the path for this post-settlement development with a strategic plan for 2012 – 2040 which outlined in broad terms the stages of settlement and development to ensure ‘a viable Ngāti Rārua culture, economy and society’. This strategic plan process inclusive of setting or re-setting the mission, vision, unique value propositions and strategic capabilities of the organisation was capably led by Hemi in a manner that reflected both our cultural and corporate responsibilities.

Hemi leaves behind a rich legacy that will be held high, in many different ways, across the members of Ngāti Rārua whānau, the Board and staff. The Board wishes Hemi well as he moves on to new challenges. His courage as a leader means he still has much to contribute to others.