Whangara Farms

Ingrid Collins

Chairperson

Ko Pukehapopo te maunga
Ko Waiomoko te awa
Ko Pureihuriata te waka
Ko Ngati Konohi te hapu
Ko Te Aitanga-A-Hauiti te Iwi
Ko Ingrid Nea Collins toku ingoa

I have been in governance positions since I was first appointed to the board of the Whangara B5 Incorporation in 1974. Since then I have had many governance roles, mostly associated with Maori farming or the medical industry. In farming circles I have been leading our Whangara B5 Incorporation through some large changes in recent times, culminating with the establishment of a Partnership with a sister Incorporation to form the Pakarae/Whangara B5 Partnership (now known as Whangara Farms). I have been the chairperson of this Partnership since its establishment in 2006.

In 2003, I was appointed Chairperson of the Tairawhiti District Health Board. This role has been a challenging one given the very public nature of the Board. During this time I have lead the Board through some very demanding changes to the health system, directing changes to meet the Governments needs. This role has also required attendance at numerous governance training work shops, increasing my knowledge of good corporate governance.

As a Maori woman in business, I have never been caught up on rank or the traditional trappings of power. I believe empowering all those who work with and around me. I recognise that science, technology and commerce have accelerated world wide in the last few decades at a speed never before seen in human history, I have no intention of being left behind.

In Maori Business we must remember Tikanga. Our Tikanga is an all embracing way of life which encompasses, values, customs, practices and traditions. I have been able to apply this philosophy to each position of leadership. It is the wisdom of experience that will support the creative thinking which comes from an open mind.