Manahautū - General Manager - Te Rūnanga o Waihao

About Te Rūnanga o Waihao

Te Rūnanga o Waihao is committed to reshaping how it supports its people and land by renewing its foundations to embed mana whenua leadership, kaupapa Māori principles, and intergenerational wellbeing at the core of its work. This organisation is embarking on a new path rooted in rakatirataka, guided by tikanga, and energized by whakapapa, focusing on place-based strategies and sustainable solutions benefiting the rūnanga, hapū, and whānau today and for future generations.

Role Overview

The Manahautū – General Manager acts as the driving force behind Te Rūnanga o Waihao's strategy and operational management. This senior role involves directing daily activities, collaborating closely with the Board, leading a small team of staff, and maintaining meaningful connections with whānau, the Marae, partners, and other stakeholders. The role is based full-time in Waimate and centers around advancing strategic goals, enhancing systems and processes, supporting governance frameworks, managing budgets and compliance, and ensuring that all initiatives remain aligned with the cultural values and long-range vision of Waihao.

Key Qualifications and Attributes

• Exemplifies leadership with humility, integrity, courage, and care
• Strong advocate and practitioner of tikanga, mana whenua leadership, and Māori aspirations
• Capacity to transform strategy into tangible outcomes and actionable plans
• Significant experience in strategic leadership, operational oversight, and managing people
• Proficient in financial management, budgeting, and business strategy
• Experience engaging with Boards, preparing comprehensive reports, and offering trusted strategic guidance
• Skilled at cultivating lasting relationships with whānau, Te Tiriti partners, community groups, and stakeholders
• Presence and engagement within the local takiwā and Marae community as appropriate
• Effective communicator with diverse audiences, both orally and in writing
• Proactive, resilient, adaptable, and dedicated to sustaining legacy, whenua, and kaupapa

Additional Information

This role represents a unique opportunity to join a whānau-centred organisation at a pivotal stage of transformation. The appointed General Manager will have a critical influence on Te Rūnanga o Waihao’s development, fostering robust operations, partnerships, and place-focused initiatives that empower the rūnanga, hapū, and whānau.

Location: Waimate (full-time onsite)

Application deadline: 5pm, 20 August 2026 (early applications encouraged)

For confidential inquiries, contact Karyn Reid at 021 132 2225.

To apply, submit your CV and cover letter as directed.

Te Rūnanga o Waihao – For us, and for generations to come.