Rotorua Lakes Council seeks applications for new Te Ahurei role

Councillor Trevor Maxwell, chief executive Geoff Williams, Te Tatau o Te Arawa chairman Te Taru White and Te Arawa Lakes Trust deputy chairman Geoff Rolleston. Photo / Stephen Parker

Rotorua Lakes Council, Te Tatau o Te Arawa and Te Arawa Lakes Trust have joined forces to recruit a leader who will guide the council's relationship with Te Arawa.

The council is seeking applications for the new position of Te Ahurei which has been developed to replace the Kaitiaki Ahurea Māori role held by Monty Morrison.

Morrison, a Ngāti Whakaue kaumātua, is transitioning out of his current role which will enable him to fulfil his tribal leadership commitments.

Council chief executive Geoff Williams said Morrison had provided invaluable manaaki (care/guidance) to the organisation and would remain with the council for a time to help the selected candidate settle in.

"The position of Te Ahurei is an important role which will need a candidate who has the confidence of Te Arawa," Williams said.

"From council's perspective, it is imperative we have Te Arawa oversight in appointing someone for this position because council works on some very complex matters which require the organisation to engage effectively with Te Arawa."

Williams said remuneration for the role was still being worked through but would be reflective of the level of experience and expertise needed.

Te Tatau o Te Arawa chairman Te Taru White welcomed the collaborative recruitment drive.

"This approach demonstrates the essence of the Te Arawa partnership, an agreement which Te Arawa and the council signed in 2015," White said.

The council has asked Te Arawa Lakes Trust, the tribal confederation's mandated post-settlement governance entity, for its support in the recruitment process.

Calls for applications for the position close on April 30.