New Te Mata Park trustees appointed

Hastings District Council is responsible for making these appointments to the Trust Board, which involved the Board’s chair in the short-list and interview processes.

Councillor Malcolm Dixon, one of Council’s representatives on the Trust Board, said the contenders for the positions were all of a high calibre.

“It was a very robust process, with quality candidates, five of whom were interviewed for the position.”

The successful appointments were Liz Read and Shannon Bray.

Shannon lives in Havelock North, and said he was a regular Park visitor.

“After three years acting as an aspiring trustee, I’m excited to be officially joining the trust board and I look forward to continuing to ensure that Te Mata Park is the best it can be.”

Liz said she was delighted to be joining the trust board.

“It’s a huge privilege to be able to contribute to ensuring the Park remains a protected taonga, valued and enjoyed by current and future generations.”

Outgoing trust board Chair Mike Devonshire said the two appointments would bring strong skills to the table.

“This will help build on the good relationship we have formed with Council, and the good governance practice in place. Everyone at heart wants the best for Te Mata Park.”

The appointments are for an initial period of three years, and can be renewed for a further two terms.

Two new Aspiring Trustees were also selected as part of this process –  Julia Harison and Jess Thomas. This role involves attending Board meetings for a year as an observer. While in time the Aspiring Trustee will become a full contributor to Board discussions, the role does not have the responsibilities of being a full Trustee and does not have voting rights.

Click here for more information about the Te Mata Park Trust Board, including a full list of board members.

Press release courtesy of Hastings District Council.

Pictured: Liz Read and Shannon Bray , Trustees, Te Mata Park Trust.