Tainui Group Holdings (TGH) Chair, Hinerangi Raumati-Tu’ua, is stepping down from her role as the commercial arm of Waikato-Tainui prepares for a transition in governance. Her departure follows the completion of nine years of consecutive service, reaching the maximum term permitted under the iwi’s governance arrangements for elected representatives.
Ms Raumati-Tu’ua has been a steady hand at the helm, balancing the complex requirements of tribal and commercial obligations. Her service included time as a marae representative on the tribal parliament, Te Whakakitenga, and its executive committee, Te Arataura. Since joining the TGH Board in 2017 and assuming the Chair in 2021, she has overseen a period of significant growth and structural development for the iwi.
Reflecting on her tenure, Ms Raumati-Tu’ua highlighted the collective effort required to drive the iwi’s commercial success.
“Serving on Te Whakakitenga, Te Arataura and the TGH Board over the past nine years, including six years as Chair of TGH, has been a privilege and an honour. I am proud of what we have achieved together. The Board, management team and our kaimahi have worked hard to strengthen the commercial foundations of the iwi while staying focused on our responsibility to current and future generations,” Ms Raumati-Tu’ua said.
Under her leadership, TGH reached several major milestones, including:
• The implementation of the Puna Whakatupu Taangata investment framework, which integrated tribal assets under a unified model.
• The strategic partnership with Brookfield Asset Management, a move that accelerated the progress of the Ruakura Superhub.
• The expansion of the commercial portfolio, including the opening of the Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel and the establishment of Ruakura Energy.
• The appointment of current Chief Executive Officer, Craig West.
For Ms Raumati-Tu’ua, the role was defined by the unique challenge of aligning commercial performance with the broader vision of the iwi.
“I have valued the opportunity to work alongside talented and committed people who care deeply about the success of Waikato-Tainui. Balancing commercial performance with our wider tribal aspirations has made this role both meaningful and rewarding,” she noted.
While a process to appoint her successor is currently underway, Ms Raumati-Tu’ua will continue in her role as Chair until that process is finalized. As she prepares to depart, she expressed confidence in the path ahead for the organization.
“I leave with gratitude for the opportunity to serve our iwi, and with confidence in the future of TGH, the strength of its leadership and people, and its ability to continue creating long-term value for generations to come,” she said.