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Cultural Advisor, Kaumatua

Russell Whakaoterangi Riki is a distinguished kaumatua of Tainui Waka, known for his deep whakapapa connections to Ngaiti Tahinga, Ngati Haua, and Ngati Mahanga. With decades of experience, Russell is celebrated for his expertise in traditional Māori practices such as whaikorero (oratory), waiata (songs), and karakia (prayers), which he uses to bring balance and harmony to organisations, fostering unity across Iwi throughout Aotearoa.

Russell serves as a cultural advisor for a range of organisations, including Raglan Health and Te Roopu Arahi, where he draws on his extensive knowledge of Māori health and well-being to support community initiatives. His commitment to preserving and advancing Māori culture has made him a trusted figure within his community and beyond.

A respected leader, Russell’s approach is deeply rooted in Tikanga Māori, embracing values of inclusivity, respect, and shared purpose. Known for his ability to bring people of diverse backgrounds together, he promotes a sense of unity and understanding that enriches both individuals and communities. His leadership continues to empower and connect people across Aotearoa, ensuring all voices are heard and valued.

Cultural Advisor, Educator

Blackie Tohiariki is an esteemed cultural advisor and educator born inTe Wairoa, Ngati Kahungunu. Also of Te Arawa and Te Whanau a Apanui descent. Blackie is celebrated for his extensive work in Education, Cultural Diversity/Alignment, and Community Connectivity. With over 40 years of experience in Education, Blackie specialises in fostering connections in the corporate environment, within not-for-profit organisations,whanau and hapuu community groups and small businesses, leveraging his expertise and networks in business planning, analysis, and coaching.

Blackie has an extensive background as a cultural advisor, working with prominent organizations such as Ghella-Abergeldie JV on the Central Interceptor Project, Oranga Tamariki, and New Zealand Basketball's Rangatahi Development Squads. His expertise extends to an international stage, having served as the International Artistic Director for CIOFF NZ at Indigenous Conferences in Greece, Spain, Italy, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Known for his trustworthiness and integrity, Blackie is held in high regard by colleagues and business associates alike. His leadership and inclusive vision continue to inspire and empower communities, promoting resilience, cultural pride, and holistic well-being across Aotearoa.

Chief Executive Officer

Eru is of Maaori and Tainui Descendant and steeped in Kiingitanga. He has been involved in Tribal politics for the past 20 years at all levels from Marae, Haapuu and whanau Trusts so he's very immersed in governance roles and processes.

Eru has spent the past 30 years in the transport, logistics and storage arena. Eru is very passionate about all things Maaori in particular empowering our people through sustainable economic opportunities especially around our environment Eru serves on a number of small Organisations to do with teenage Suicide and Domestic Violence for the pat 12 years, Eru also runs his own successful business in the transport and logistics sector.

Has been involved in Rugby League for the past 35 years as a player, Coach then Administrator. In particular in Maaori Rugby League. He's played and represented at international and national level for Waikato, Waikato Maaori and New Zealand Maaori.

Project Developer, Strategic Advisor

Marlin grew up in Wairoa and Lake Waikaremoana. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in business management at University of Waikato, he worked in Tainui Iwi’s fisheries division to market seafood products to the international market. As a successful entrepreneur, Marlin has 25 years of commercial experience building his own business brands across a broad range of industries both locally and internationally. He has owned multiple health club chains and co-founded the world's largest and fastest growing fitness franchise, Anytime Fitness to the New Zealand market.

He specialises in large scale capital raising for project financing in the sustainable technology space. Having successfully raised USD $1.2 billion project finance to date. In 2018 he delivered a Trust Deed for Ngā Tokorima a Hinemanuhiri and served as a Commercial Strategy Advisor for Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa Trust as part of their post treaty settlement.

Marlin brings business skills, extensive networks and wealth of project experience to the team. To lead and guide indigenous communities toward smart solutions for wealth creation.

Business Development Manager

Jason Whare is an experienced business professional from Tainui, known for his extensive expertise in transportation, logistics, and building strategic relationships. With a strong foundation in managing complex logistics networks, Jason has a proven ability to develop efficient, innovative solutions that serve both commercial and community-focused projects.

Jason’s role as a senior advisor emphasises his exceptional relationship-building skills and extensive networks across various industries. His capacity to foster partnerships and connect people with shared goals has been instrumental in driving successful outcomes for Māori communities. Deeply committed to uplifting his iwi, Jason actively works to create sustainable opportunities and economic growth for whānau and iwi alike.

As a senior member of the Kawa team, Jason combines his logistics expertise, cultural insights, and vast professional network to support resilient, thriving communities across Aotearoa.