What We Do

Te Rūnanga o Waihao exists to represent, support and connect Waihao whānau.

A large outdoor event tent filled with people sitting at tables, eating food, and socializing. Outside the tent, cars are parked on the grass.

Working for Waihao whānau

Te Rūnanga o Waihao provides a collective voice and structure for Waihao whānau.

Through the Rūnanga, whānau are able to come together, make decisions, protect shared interests and pursue aspirations for the future.

Our mahi is grounded in whakapapa, connection to Waihao and responsibility to the generations who came before us, as well as those still to come.

A group of people, mostly women, standing and conversing inside a large tent at an event. Some are holding drinks, and one woman is playing a guitar. In the background, a large screen displays part of a logo or text that reads 'Hui-'. The people appear to be engaged in conversations, wearing dark clothing and accessories, and some are smiling.

Our Role

Representation, connection and support

Te Rūnanga o Waihao represents manawhenua within the Waihao takiwā.

The Rūnanga provides a way for Waihao whānau to stay connected, participate in decision-making and contribute to the direction of our people, marae and resources.

As an incorporated society, Te Rūnanga o Waihao can also carry out practical responsibilities on behalf of its members. This includes managing land and assets, employing people, entering agreements and receiving funds for the benefit of Waihao.

Our Mahi

Representing Waihao

We represent Waihao interests across our takiwā and in wider kaupapa that affect our people, whenua, waterways and future.

Managing resources responsibly

We help manage the responsibilities, relationships, assets and obligations of the Rūnanga in a way that protects what has been built and supports future generations.

Supporting whānau participation

We provide opportunities for registered members to stay informed, attend hui, vote, contribute to decisions and help shape the direction of the Rūnanga.

Sharing information and opportunities

We keep whānau updated through pānui, events, reports, resources and member communications.

Caring for the marae

We support Waihao Marae as a place of gathering, connection, learning and belonging for Waihao whānau.

Supporting kaupapa that matter

We contribute to kaupapa that strengthen Waihao identity, education, environmental connection, cultural knowledge and whānau wellbeing.

Guided by our members

Te RŪNANGA o Waihao is guided by its members.

The Board manages the affairs of the Rūnanga in line with the direction and decisions of members. Committees, representatives and the operations team then support specific areas of mahi, including marae, governance, member services, education, events and wider kaupapa.

This structure helps ensure the Rūnanga can meet its responsibilities while keeping whānau connected to the decisions that matter.

Governance & Structure
A group of people seated around tables in a meeting room, with some looking at a television screen at the front of the room. The room has a wooden ceiling with exposed beams and windows with blue curtains. There are various items on the tables, including papers, pens, and a map.

Stay connected and take part

Registered members of Te Rūnanga o Waihao can access member information, attend meetings, vote where eligible and stay involved in the future direction of Waihao.

If you whakapapa to one of the Kaumatua listed in the 1848 census, you may be eligible to register with Te Rūnanga o Waihao.

Register with Waihao
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