Ngāti Whakahemo
Claims Trust
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Tō Mātou Rōpū
Our Team
Trustees
Mita Ririnui
Kura Paul-Burke
Kerri Kerr
Adrian Jaram
Jasmine Stoneley
Past Committee Members
Hokohinu Horne, Maria Horne,
Te Awhi o te Rangi Anderson-Manahi
We honour the dedication and legacy of those team members who have passed on. Their tireless work was pivotal not only in advancing our claims journey but also in the cultural and political renaissance of Ngāti Whakahemo as a whole. Their contributions continue to guide us, and their presence is felt in every step we take forward as an iwi.
Our five core representatives will serve as the initial trustees of the Ngāti Whakahemo Claims Trust from the date of operation. Most of these individuals have been part of this kaupapa since 2014, dedicating their time, skills, and resources to progressing our Waitangi Tribunal claims and supporting wider Ngāti Whakahemo initiatives. They bring with them a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and experience grounded in service to the iwi and the mahi ahead.
As Trustees, we are guided by the principles and duties set out in the Trusts Act 2019. These include a responsibility to:
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Act honestly and in good faith
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Manage Trust assets responsibly and prudently
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Act in the best interests of all beneficiaries
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Be transparent and keep proper records
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Exercise care, diligence, and skill in all decision-making
Trustees must also adhere to the values and processes laid out in the Ngāti Whakahemo Claims Trust Deed, which reflects the tikanga of our iwi. Our role is not only to lead the Crown settlement negotiations, but also to ensure that everything we do is done with integrity, cultural grounding, and accountability to our people.
In addition to our Trustees, we have the ability to bring on dedicated kaimahi who can walk alongside us in this journey. Their roles and responsibilities are defined by the specific areas they support.
In 2023, two iwi members stepped forward to join the Registration and IT team. With dedication and a willingness to learn, they took on the challenge of mastering our data systems, software, and protocols — helping to establish a secure and resilient registration process that upholds the mana motuhake of Ngāti Whakahemo through data sovereignty.
Their contribution has been a vital part of our succession strategy, enabling the transfer of knowledge while strengthening our iwi’s cultural and technical capacity for the future.
Daniel Ngawhika
Bella Ngawhika