Photo credit: Kate MacPherson / Stuff
Business leader Johnny McGregor (Te Ātiawa, Ngāti Rārua) is replacing recent New Year honours recipient Paul Morgan as chair of Wakatū Incorporation in Nelson.
Morgan, who was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit earlier this month, has stepped down for a sabbatical to recognise his long service. He served more than 30 years on the Wakatū board, including 22 years as chair.
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Paul Morgan was Wakatū chair for 22 years. Photo credit / Stuff
McGregor has served on a range of boards and expert advisory groups, including the World Economic Forum’s Trade and Indigenous Programme and the Federation of Māori Authorities.
“Johnny is a respected leader who will bring great energy, leadership and perspective as we advance our 500-year intergenerational plan, Te Pae Tawhiti,” says Wakatū chief executive Kerensa Johnston.
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Newly appointed Wakatū chair Johnny McGregor. Source / Wakatū Incorporation
“It’s an important time for Wakatū as we come out of a tough operating environment to embark on a year of transformation, and the board looks forward to working with management to make strategic decisions that continue to prepare us well for the future.”
Wakatū has grown from an $11 million asset base in 1977 to a current value of more than $350 million. It manages a diverse portfolio including vineyards, orchards, marine farms and waterspace. Its associated business, Kono NZ, is a food and beverage producer and exporter of premium wine, beer, cider, seafood, fruit and natural fruit bars.
Wakatū has āpproximately 4,000 owners who descend from four iwi: Ngāti Koata, Ngāti Rārua, Ngāti Tama, and Te Ātiawa.