Have Your Say in the Future of Whakatōhea
The Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea Trustee Elections will take place later this year.
These elections are an opportunity for whānau to help shape the future direction of Whakatōhea by choosing the people who will provide governance and leadership on behalf of our iwi.
The decisions made today will help guide the aspirations of future generations. Strong leadership, informed participation, and whānau voices all play an important role in ensuring Whakatōhea continues to grow, thrive, and remain connected.
As we move towards the election period, we encourage whānau to stay informed, ensure their details are up to date, and begin thinking about the leaders they would like to see represent them.
Whether you are considering standing yourself, supporting someone else to stand, or preparing to cast your vote, this is an opportunity to contribute to the future of our iwi.
Key Dates
Friday 14 August 2026
Monday 14 September 2026
Friday 16 October 2026
Friday 13 November 2026 5pm
Wednesday 18 November
Thursday 3 December
Saturday 5 December
Nominations open
Nominations close
Voting opens
5pm Voting closes
Provisional results released
Announcement of results
New Trustees Sworn in at AGM
Eligibility
To vote, you must be registered on the Whakatōhea tribal database, be aged 18 and over, and of Whakatōhea descent. If you’re not, register by clicking here now or phone 07 315 6150.
To stand as a candidate, you must meet the criteria set out in clauses 2.1 and 6.8 of the Second Schedule of the and be registered as a beneficiary. To read the full requirements for eligibility, read our frequently asked pātai.
Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea Trust Deed and be registered as a beneficiary. To read the full
requirements for eligibility, read our frequently asked pātai.
Trustee Positions Available
There will be 16 Trustee positions available"
Hapū Trustees
Two Trustees will be elected from each of the six hapū:
Ngāi Tamahaua
Ngāti Ruatākena
Ngāti Patumoana
Ngāti Ngāhere
Ngāti Ira
Te Ūpokorehe
General Trustees
Four General Trustees will be elected, including:
At least one Rangatahi Trustee (aged between 18 and 35 years)
Duties of Trustees
Know and act in accordance with the Trust Deed
Act honestly and in good faith
Hold and deal with Trust Assets for the benefit of all Members of Whakatōhea
Exercise powers for a proper purpose
Act in accordance with any Code of Conduct developed by the Trust
If elected, Trustees must publicly swear an oath – Te Oatitanga – and agree to be
bound by the terms of the Trust Deed.
To read more about eligibility requirements, nominations and voting, please read our
frequently asked pātai.
Nominations and Independent Returning Officer Contact:
Isiah Roberts
Chief Returning Officer - ElectioNZ
Ph: 0800 666 047
Structure
Governance
