Ngāti Whātua, Ngā Puhi and Ngāti Porou

Materoa has been involved in Māori Health, Whānau Ora and other areas of Māori Development alongside broader community development in various roles for more than 40 years. Materoa is currently the Upoko Whakarae (CEO) of Te Tihi o Ruahine Whānau Ora Alliance (Te Tihi) & Chair of EMERGE Aotearoa. Materoa has held numerous leadership, advisory and Governance roles in the New Zealand Health, science, education, and wellbeing system both nationally, regionally, and locally. Materoa is committed to Māori and community Development and working with Hapori to improve outcomes. Materoa is a strong advocate for solutions that fit well with Iwi, local ethnic and diverse communities.

‘It is important to me that I am able to be a conduit between community and Board, influencing how we, as a community, can be better connected.’

Stefan is a governance director, with more than a decade in board roles, starting at 20 years old and his first chair role at 26. Stefan has served in various governance roles including as Board Member of Manfeild Park Trust, Chair of Queen Elizabeth College Board, and Board Member of Employment Advice New Zealand. Stefan is a committee member with the Institute of Directors and Institute of Public Administration New Zealand. His connections across Manawatū-Whanganui are broad, with experience in the business and community sectors, and a senior advisory role with the Ministry of Social Development.

‘I am interested in making sure that Fire and Emergency’s services focus on preventative measures and high-quality responses to the unique needs of our communities.’

Ross is currently serving his last term as a Councillor with the Horowhenua District Council (12 years) and has over 34 years’ experience in emergency management and emergency services being a former Police Officer. He has solid community connections (including Iwi and Hapu) and understands local risks and needs. 

‘Fire and Emergency are an integral organisation in our district and wider region, and I am looking forward to contributing my skills and experience to benefit the community.’

Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tamatea Arikinui, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Hauiti, Rangitāne

Bonnie has held varied roles in social services, business ownership, real estate and as a NGO manager. She is currently Te Ao Māori Advisor for New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre (NZAGRC). She has a passion and experience working with hard-to-reach communities. 

‘My passion is advocacy and giving mana to community voices and experiences. I know that any positive change comes through positive interaction and engagement. We already have the solutions within our communities. It's about shining a light on them’.

Paul has served the Indian community over the past four decades, including leading the Central Districts Indian Association (CDIA). This role has also connected him into close working relationships with the NZ Police. He is accustomed to working with local and central government to influence change. He has also been the President of the New Zealand Indian Central Association of which CDIA is affiliated to.

‘I offer a perspective from the ethnic communities, especially in the understanding and assistance in explaining the importance of safety, especially when lives and property are at risk.’

Paul has been a Rangitikei resident for the past 52 years with close links to the region. Being a long time Tutor at Flock House Agricultural Institute followed by involvement in the Agricultural Health & Safety sector has given him a full understanding of the needs of the rural community. Since retiring Paul has been elected a Rangitikei District Councillor representing the Southern Ward.

A life Member of the Bulls Rugby Football Club, he is an active committee member of community organisations including the Bulls Historical Society and Bulls Lions Club, as well as being the Director of the Bulls Commemorative Centre Project in the town’s old library building. As a result, Paul is well connected to both the town and wider communities to gain a full understanding of the risks and needs facing the Rangitikei District.  

‘I am passionate about Health & Safety and excited about the prospect of contributing my skills and experience to the LAC.’

Amy is a Senior Advisor for Massey University and has connections across the tertiary and education sectors where she’s made instrumental changes to pastoral care for students. She has previous governance experience as President and Vice President of the NZ Association of Tertiary Education Accommodation Professionals. Her experience and insights into incident response and emergency management come from a background working with the NZ Police and managing University Halls.

Amy’s commitment to whole-of-community solutions to safety and resilience is influenced by her knowledge of te reo and mātauranga Māori, human development theory, and familial ties to the Pacific. Amy looks forward to bringing her ability to connect the bigger picture with immediate issues to the local advisory committee.

‘I am interested in emergency management and incident response, particularly as it relates to wellbeing and safety.’

Graeme has broad connections into the community through his involvement with the Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter based in Palmerston North where he holds several roles.  He is a regular speaker at public events and has formed relationships with emergency service providers, sporting/community groups, councillors and politicians. Graeme is a past Volunteer with Feilding Volunteer Brigade and previous representative on several national committees for the United Fire Brigades Association.

‘I have a long history of community engagement and a deep desire to see safe and resilient communities.’