MŌ MĀTOU
About Us
Taurewa Farm Trust governs 697 hectares of Māori freehold land located near Tongariro Forest Park, representing a legacy of cultural heritage and responsible stewardship. With over 3,000 registered owners, the Trust is committed to balancing cultural, social, environmental, and economic goals to ensure the whenua thrives for future generations.
Established under a Māori land trust order, the Trust’s foundation is embedded in kaitiakitanga (guardianship), manaakitanga (hospitality), and whanaungatanga (connection). Historically, the land has been leased for dry stock farming, providing a steady income while preserving its natural and cultural significance. In 2019, trustees and owners endorsed a shift toward self-management, guided by the Deloitte Land Use Options Report, which explored opportunities such as diversified agriculture, mānuka honey production, forestry, and eco-tourism.
In 2024, the Trust engaged experts, to prepare for this transition. As the Trust transitions to self-management, it remains steadfast in its mission to preserve the legacy of Taurewa Farm while building a prosperous and sustainable future for its owners and whānau.
Our History
Taurewa Farm Trust was formally established 25 October 1978 under the Trust Order for Taurewa 5 West, reflecting the significant legacy of Māori land governance and stewardship. This trust structure was created to protect and manage approximately 697 hectares of Māori freehold land.
The Trust Order sets out the foundational framework for the governance of the land, including the appointment of trustees and their responsibilities. Central to the Trust's purpose is the protection and sustainable use of the whenua, with a focus on balancing cultural, heritage with modern economic opportunities.
Through this governance framework, Taurewa Farm Trust has maintained its focus on fostering unity among its owners, providing economic returns, and upholding its role as kaitiaki of the whenua. The Trust Order continues to serve as the guiding document for decision-making, reflecting the collective aspirations of its owners and the importance of the land as a taonga tuku iho.
Our vision
To preserve the legacy of Taurewa Farm while creating a thriving, sustainable, and innovative future that honors our connection to the whenua and supports well-being to our people.
Our Mission
To uphold the principles of kaitiakitanga by managing and developing the whenua responsibly, ensuring cultural, environmental and economic benefits for the Trust’s owners and future generations.
Tō Mātou Hononga ki te Iwi me te Whānau
Our connection to our whānau
At Taurewa Farm Trust, our people are at the heart of everything we do. By fostering connections between landowners and the wider Ngāti Tūwharetoa iwi, we ensure that our actions reflect the values and aspirations of those we serve.
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Taurewa Farm Trust plans to develop grants and scholarships to support educational opportunities for owners and their whānau. These initiatives will aim to empower individuals through higher education, training programs, and skill-building, fostering personal and professional growth while contributing to the sustainable development of our whenua.
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The Trust is working toward creating training and apprenticeship programs designed to equip owners and whānau with practical skills in farming, land management, and sustainable practices. These programs will provide hands-on experience and open pathways to meaningful careers connected to the whenua.
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Workshops
Future workshops hosted by the Trust will focus on cultural, environmental, and agricultural topics, offering owners and whānau opportunities to learn, share knowledge, and engage with the land. These workshops aim to strengthen community ties while fostering education and innovation.
Events
Taurewa Farm Trust envisions hosting events that bring owners and their whānau together to celebrate, learn, and engage. These events will highlight the Trust’s work, promote cultural and environmental stewardship, and encourage collective participation in shaping the future of the whenua
GOVERNANCE
The Trust operates under a governance model where trustees are responsible for making strategic decisions, ensuring alignment with the Trust's mission and values. They work to manage assets, oversee financial health, and ensure compliance with legal obligations. Trustees are accountable to the landowners, and their decisions prioritise both the sustainable development of the land and the well-being of the Trust’s beneficiaries.
The Board of Trustees are supported by a part-time business and accounts manager, who handles the day-to-day management of business operations and financial affairs.
OUR TRUSTEES
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Zac Te Ahuru (CHAIR)
His commitment to preserving the legacy of the whenua while creating opportunities for future generations exemplifies his role as an enabler of growth and sustainability for Taurewa Farm Trust.
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Tania Phillips
Her commitment to sustainable land management and her ability to balance traditional practices with modern farming approaches make her an invaluable asset to the Trust. Whether leading initiatives or supporting activities required of her as a trustee, her dedication ensures that the Trust remains a strong and united entity.
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Lance te Ahuru
His enduring commitment to the Trust ensures that its values and legacy are preserved while guiding its future with wisdom and compassion.
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Kerei Heeney Iwikau
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Fiona Kahukura Chase
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Parekura Hollis
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