Annual General Hui Captures Time of Transition

Date Created: October 27, 2021

Tēnā tatau katoa,

The Trust was pleased with the level of attendance and participation in the virtual Annual General Meeting held on 12th September, which included more than 80 attendees from across the motu. Mouri ora.

Much like the season shifting to Spring, the virtual hui captured the time of change and transition that is upon the Trust. This was highlighted in having the incoming Trustees formally appointed, and in having the presentation delivered by new kaihautū Nancy Tuaine and outgoing chairperson Gerrard Albert.

The role of the Trust moving forward was reinforced, and that is to empower hapū and to affirm their rights in decision-making relating to the Awa. Hapū and whānau are encouraged to build relationships with the Trust throughout the year, adding that the kaihautū and trustees are always open for discussions around any matters.

The Annual Report 2020-2021 features a number of highlights with a focus on hapū sharing their own success stories. The report captures the voice of those at the flax roots getting the mahi done, reinforcing our potential to achieve our own aspirations and demonstrating how the Trust can provide support where necessary.

At the close of the past financial year, our total assets sit at $122,325,210 of which 80% are invested in managed funds. Despite the ups and downs of the Covid-19 pandemic, managed funds achieved an impressive gain of $15.3 million and the value of our land and buildings increased by $1.36 million. Full financial reports are available in the Supplementary Documents which can be found on our website alongside the Annual Report.

Those attending were invited to pose any questions through the group chat or Questions and Answers, and queries were received regarding the appointment of Silks Auditors for the next financial year.  The chairman confirmed there were no conflicts of interest between the Trust and Silks Auditors. Uri were able to vote on the two resolutions surrounding the appointment of an auditor and trustees remuneration – both of which were supported.

We later received a pātai regarding communications from the Trust, and are happy to report that the bi-monthly Ngā Tāngata Tiaki o Whanganui e-pānui has been reinstated to keep whānau up to date with Trust activities and other hapū and iwi related matters. The website is also undergoing some changes to make it easier for whānau to access the latest information on the homepage.

Gerrard also advised at the hui that the term of Dame Tariana Turia as Te Pou Tupua has been completed, and her contribution and work in the role was acknowledged by both Gerrard and Turama Hawira. In the near future, an opportunity to welcome and induct a new Pou Tupua will be announced.
 
Again, this hui reinforced the changing times and a sense that the Trust has done a lot of ground work to establish its systems and processes and prepare for this next phase, the building phase. The key message being that our door is always open and we encourage hapū and whānau to come through it, build a relationship with us, and see where we can support you.