Our Governance Structure:

Te Puna Ariki’s governance structure reflects a unique and values-driven model that upholds our unwavering commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, to tikanga and kawa, and to the wellbeing of future generations. Our approach intentionally weaves together kaupapa Māori principles with best-practice governance standards. This includes a Strategic Advisory Committee of independent SME’s that strengthen our growth mindset and ensures excellence in stewardship, a Rangatahi Leadership Council and Trustee Rep that embodies our hopes and accountability to the generations to come, and dedicated Tangata Whenua and Tangata Tiriti board representatives who give practical effect to our commitment to Te Tiriti. Together, this structure ensures our governance remains courageous, inclusive, and grounded in the aspirations of our hāpori. Through every step on this journey, we're focused on staying true to our values.

Te Poari Matua | Board of Trustees

  • Glenn Benfell | Kaitiaki - Trustee

    Te Pou Matua | Chairperson & Strategy Portfolio

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  • Anania Ransfield-King

    Te Pou Tuārongo | Rangatahi Trustee

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  • Maringi Kete | Kaitiaki - Trustee

    Te Pou Tohutohu | Policy Portfolio

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  • Cass McLean | Kaitiaki - Trustee

    Te Pou Whanake | Treasurer & Finance Portfolio

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  • Kelly Albrecht | Kaitiaki - Trustee

    Te Pou Tuarua | Deputy Chair

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Strategic Advisory Committee

This groups collective expertise supports the Trust in achieving its vision and delivering lasting impact for the communities it serves.

It’s Purpose: The Strategic Advisory Committee plays a vital role in ensuring independent oversight of the Trust’s strategy, direction, and operations.

It’s Value: Acting as a critical layer of accountability, the committee strengthens the Trust’s capacity in governance and strategic development by providing informed, impartial advice.

It’s Membership: The committee’s members bring a wealth of experience spanning social development, financial investment, educational leadership, communications, community and Māori governance, offering diverse perspectives that enhance decision-making and long-term planning. The current committee members are:

  • Te Rika Temara-Benfell (CEO), Glenn Benfell (Chairperson), De Thomas (Independent - Public Sector & Mātauranga Māori Specialist), Lanea Strickland (Independent - Education Specialist), Adele Barsdell (Independent - Social Investment & Community Development Specialist), and Matiria Temara (Independent - Finance Specialist).

Ngā Upoko o Te Puna Ariki | Senior Leadership Team

  • Te Rika - Te Pou Whakahaere | CEO

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  • Henare | Head of Sport Development

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  • Kelly | Deputy Head of Sport Development

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  • Manaaki Temaarua - Te Pou Ārahi | Operations Manager

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  • Trina - Te Pou Hāpori | Community Connection Manager

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  • Maia - Senior Comms Advisor

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Rangatahi Leadership Council | Te Kōmiti Rangatahi

  • Makurata Anderson

    Rangatahi Councillor | Te Wharekura o Ngāti Rongomai

  • David Barsdell

    Rangatahi Councillor | Home Schooled

  • Isaiah Strickland

    Rangatahi Councillor | Rotorua Boys High

  • Anania Ransfield-King

    Rangatahi Councillor | Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ruamata

  • Bella Kerr-Grant

    Rangatahi Councillor | John Paul College

  • Keirah Ratahi

    Rangatahi Councillor | Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ruamata

  • Elijah Adams

    Rangatahi Councillor | Te Kura o Raukura

Our Accountant:

Isabelle Yee is the Director of ICY Chartered Accountants. ICY provides the trust with personalised accounting services and assists us in achieving our financial goals. ICY’s values and whakaaro aligned well with those of the trust, making them an obvious choice for us.