Trust Holds First PSGE AGM

Te Korowai o Wainuiārua Trust gathered with uri on Saturday, September 27, 2025, for its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) following the passing of it’s settlement legislation earlier this year.

Held both in person and live-streamed online, the hui marked an important milestone in the Trust’s journey as the new post-settlement governance entity. Trustees, kaumātua, whānau and supporters reflected on achievements to date, outlined future priorities, and invited open discussion on the Trust’s direction.

Looking back and moving forward
Trust Chair and trustees opened the hui by acknowledging the significance of the settlement bill’s third reading in Parliament in March. It was described as a moment of unity and remembrance for tūpuna who had carried the kaupapa through decades of struggle.

The Annual Report and audited financial statements were presented and adopted. Settlement funds totalling $31.6 million have been received, with the Trust now holding equity of $31.8m. A Finance, Risk and Audit Committee and subsidiary entities, including an investment company, have been established to manage assets and opportunities.

Strategic planning and sovereignty
A draft Five-Year Strategic Plan has been released, shaped by feedback from more than 30 uri through surveys and hui. Trustees emphasised financial sovereignty, capacity-building, and creating opportunities for rangatahi as key priorities. Consultation on the draft plan remains open until October 10.

Open floor kōrero
Whānau were invited to ask questions and raise issues following the Annual Report. Topics included:

• ensuring strong financial literacy across the iwi,

• pathways to sustainable employment for young people,

• the role of subsidiaries in managing assets and property,

• and the importance of energy, water, and environmental sustainability.

Trustees acknowledged challenges in the current economic and political climate, but reinforced their commitment to protecting Treaty rights, building resilience, and creating long-term benefits for uri.

Acknowledgement of Our General Manager – Final Report and Farewell

At the AGM our General Manager delivered his final report before stepping down from his role. This moment marked the end of an extraordinary chapter for Te Korowai o Wainuiārua Trust, and we take this opportunity to acknowledge his significant contribution over more than a decade of service.

In his final report, he reflected on the journey of our iwi throughout the past year – most notably the milestone of our Settlement, with the third reading in Parliament held on the 6th of March, a moment he described as "a profound moment of unity" for our hapū. He recalled the presence of whānau in the gallery that day, and the many who could not be there, whose spirit was carried with us.

He outlined the progress made in governance, including:

• The first election of new trustees, now confirmed with their rotational terms;

• The winding up of the Uenuku Charitable Trust, the mandated entity through settlement negotiations;

• The establishment of new structures including Finance, Risk and Audit Committee, Makotuku Charitable Trust, Toutou Investments Limited Partnership, and Whiria Te Muka Assets Custodian Trustee Limited;

• Continued mahi to oppose legislation that undermines Te Tiriti rights;

• The development of a 5-year strategic plan, built on the kōrero and feedback of over 30 responders to our survey.

As he closed his report, he shared his gratitude:

“It’s been a wonderful journey. The future looks very bright. On behalf of my wife and daughter, our whānau thank you for the opportunity.”

Steven Hirini started his journey with us as Uenuku Charitable Trust’s Treaty Negotiations Project Manager and then went on to become the PSGE General Manager. His service for us spans more than 10 years.

Following his report, a heartfelt acknowledgment was made by one of our uri, reflecting on the breadth of his service and deep connection to our people:

"Steve came to us over a decade ago. We welcomed him, his own daughter was just 3 months old when he started, and now she’s 12. He’s been a project manager, general manager, and a key cog in the wheel through the toughest parts of negotiation. He’s endured opposition, navigated systems, and stood alongside us the whole way."

"There is great respect for what Steve has contributed to Te Korowai o Wainuiārua. We acknowledge the sacrifice of his weekly travel from Levin, the time away from his whānau, and the many roles he played. He leaves behind a strengthened waka and a legacy of determination, resilience, and care for our people.”

Ngā mihi nui ki a koe, Steve. Thank you for your aroha and your service.
Haere rā, and we wish you all the very best in your next chapter.

The meeting closed with thanks to all who attended in person and online.

Next steps
The Trust encourages uri to review the draft Strategic Plan and provide feedback by October 10. The final plan will set the direction for the next five years as Te Korowai o Wainuiārua Trust works to strengthen its foundations, uphold mana motuhake, and create opportunities for future generations.

You can watch the AGM on our Facebook page - Click Here