Ngai Tahu Representative - Guardians of Lake Wānaka - Department of Conservation

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A prominent Māori organization in New Zealand is seeking a Ngāi Tahu representative for the Guardians of Lake Wānaka. The role involves ensuring that tribal matters are represented and collaborating with Papatipu Rūnanga. Ideal candidates will have a strong understanding of Ngāi Tahu values and commitment to conservation efforts. Meetings occur two to three times a year, with a remuneration of $500 per day.

Qualifications

• Willingness to understand and promote the Deed of Settlement related to Lake Wānaka.
• Time and energy for meetings, field trips, and consultations.
• Desire to assist in developing iwi initiatives for the Guardians.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Ngāi Tahu perspective to the Guardians.
• Ensure tribal issues of significance are communicated to Te Rūnanga.
• Engage with Papatipu Rūnanga during consultations.

Skills

Understanding of Ngāi Tahu values

Familiarity with Resource Management Act processes

Ability to promote customary management practices

Job description

Overview

Kia hiwa rā! The Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu nomination and appointment process is being undertaken to appoint a new Ngāi Tahu representative to the Guardians of Lake Wānaka - Department of Conservation.

Position

One Ngāi Tahu representative position.

Functions of the Guardians of Lake Wānaka

The Guardians was established in 1973 to advise the Minister on matters relating to the Lake Wānaka Preservation Act. This Act provides for the preservation of the normal water levels and shoreline of Lake Wānaka, and the maintenance and improvement of water quality. The group\'s powers are fairly broadly defined but focus on Lake Wānaka issues. In recent years agenda items have included Lagarosiphon, shoreline structures and matters affecting water quality, such as discharges. It will also be a responsibility of the Te Rünanga nominee to ensure that the group consults with Papatipu Rünanga when appropriate.

Purpose of the role

The purpose of this role is to represent the Ngāi Tahu perspective to the Guardians of Lake Wānaka ensuring that any issues of tribal significance are reported to Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu while also ensuring that tribal matters of significance are represented to the Guardians.

Required Skills, Experience And Qualifications

• An understanding of Ngäi Tahu values in relation to conservation and an ability to promote and articulate these values.
• A willingness to understand and promote the undertakings contained in the Deed of Settlement in relation to Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea.
• Familiarity with Resource Management Act processes.
• The time and energy for meetings, field trips, reading and consultation.
• The ability to encourage the adoption of customary management practices where they are applicable.
• The desire to assist in the development of iwi initiatives to integrate into the programmes of the Guardians.
• Position Brief attached for more details

Meeting details

Meetings are held two - three times a year, with a remuneration of $500 per day (pro rata for half day). In addition, there may be special meetings held if there is a particular matter needing consideration. Reasonable expenses for travel, accommodation and meals approved in advance by the Board will be met by the Department of Conservation.

How To Apply

To apply for the position you will need to engage with your Papatipu Rūnanga to complete the selection and nomination process.

Papatipu Rūnanga eligible to nominate to the Guardians of Lake Wānaka

Te Rūnanga o Moeraki, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, Hokonui Rūnanga, Te Rūnaka o Waihōpai, Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka and Te Rūnaka o Awarua

For details on how to apply or assistance connecting with your Rūnanga and for further information, please contact Mishele Radford on 021 943 816 or [e-mail].

Nominations must be received by 5pm, Monday 13 October 2025. Formal notification will be sent to all nominees following the review and appointment process.

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!