Dr Tanira Kingi

Tanira is responsible for developing and implementing AgResearch’s Māori Strategy. He has a PhD in agricultural economics and development from the Australian National University and is currently managing a number of research projects in Māori land development, environmental impacts of pastoral agriculture, and scenario modeling for NZ’s pastoral industries.

Current Directorships include Agriculture ITO, NZ Qualifications Authoritiy and Waerenga-Pukahukiwi Ltd. Former committees of management positions include Ngāti Whakaue Tribal Lands and Aohanga Incorporation.

Tanira works extensively with Maori incorporations and trusts and iwi authorities and is a regular speaker on Maori land tenure and Maori agribusiness at international conferences including Canada, USA, Malaysia, Australia, Fiji, PNG and other South Pacific Island nations.

Hoani Ponga

Hoani Ponga of Whanganui, Ngāpuhi, Rangitane, Ngāti Tuwharetoa and Te Whānau-a-Apanui descent is the Māori Relationships and Business Manager based at Grasslands.

Hoani comes from a marine science background and brings a depth of experience in local government, Māori community relationships and Maori environmental practice. “This is an exciting time to be a part of contributing to Māori aspirations of economic development. On the whole I believe our people are on the cusp of a significant development breakthrough.”

Irene Kereama-Royal

Irene Kereama-Royal, who is affiliated to Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Tuwharetoa and Ngāti Raukawa, is responsible for the Māori partnerships and innovation strategy for AgResearch.

Irene has been involved in Māori community development for more than 20 years. Her particular interests include the development of sustainable community housing on Māori land, she has lectured and practiced in environmental law, presented at national and international conferences on Māori environmental ethics and practice and acted as an independent monitor and panel member for NZQA. Irene has held a number of director positions and trusteeships of Māori companies and Boards and is a current trustee of an Ahu Whenua Trust in the Hauraki Gulf.