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KAUPAPA THAT SHAPED OUR YEAR Our role as kaitiaki in action How we’re

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He Rau Tau, He Rau Mahara – our centenary is coming

NATURE OF BUSINESS

YEAR ESTABLISHED

OFFICES AND CONTACT INFORMATION

TE PAPATOHU

He Maimai Aroha

Sir Tumu Gerard Te Heuheu Tūkino VIII KNZM

(22 August 1941 – 23 September 2025)

Kia hiwa rā! Kia hiwa rā!

Kia hiwa rā ki tērā tū! Kia hiwa rā ki tēnā tū!

Tū tei tū whakaara pā!

Nā Meremere Tawera te whetū takiaho mai i te ata pō ki te ata tū.

Matangiruatawa Pou te Rakarakaia

Te Tapeka ō Rongo, Whatu ō Rongo ka riro e!

Ka heke te Waihīhī! Te Waihāhā! Te Waihi Rere tapu ō Rongomai atua!

He kāwai heke iho, te roimata tapu, ki roto i te puna, puna mai i Te Manawa ō te ika ā Maui Tikitiki ā Taranga.

Te kōkōmako whakahau i te ata, i runga i ngā pari ō Waihi Kahakaharoa, tahuri te taniwha, upoko waipare, hoki atu ki tana rua!

Tuku manu tāiko e rere i te pō, pō, pokia te pō, ngaro te pō!

Te mātuku hūrepo hū! Hū! Hū i te whakatara o te pō!

Taku manu ariki e rere kei runga te tumu whakarae whenua. Ko koe Te Tumu Whakarae Ariki e rere!

Ki te wāhi ngaro ki te kāinga tūturu, e kōrerotia ā o tātou tūpuna mātua.

Te Ariki Pakewa Hereara ki te rangi tū tonu! Tū tonu! Tū tonu!

Te Ariki Tamaroa Te Rangimaheu, i te whenua, tū mai rara rā! Tū mai rara rā!

Tūwharetoa! Maranga ake!

Toea atu rā te tatau o te pō!

Pō! Pō! Pō! Whiti ao!

E whiti, e whiti, e whiti ki te ora

Tūturu o whiti whakamaua kia tina

Haumi ē! Hui ē! Tāiki e!

He tirohanga ki te tau

Nā te Tiamana

Our guiding pou

Nearly a century ago, our Koro Hoani Te Heuheu set the foundation for this Trust: look after our people and protect our taiao. He saw the impacts of hardship on our iwi and acted with purpose. His vision still guides us today. Mahi Rangatira ki te Iwi remains our compass.

Investment in our people

We continued to invest directly in whānau. This includes support for kōhanga reo, kura kaupapa and tertiary pathways. Education has always been central to our iwi story. We also supported marae with insurance, restoration projects and capital upgrades. Much of this is delivered with our partners — the Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust and Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries Charitable Trust. Working together allows us to reach more whānau in consistent and practical ways.

“ Our pou have never changed — our people, our taiao, and Mahi Rangatira ki te Iwi. ”

John Bishara

A challenging political year

This has been a difficult year for iwi Māori across the motu. The coalition government’s agenda has created real risks for our people, our landowners and our rights. We have had to reassess how we engage with both central and local government. Some local authorities have simply followed the political winds. We remain clear, however, about our responsibilities and the boundaries of our authority. We will continue to stand firm.

Strengthening Tūwharetoa unity

Despite the challenges, we have made strong progress as an iwi. Under the leadership of our Ariki, Tā Tumu te Heuheu, we strengthened the relationships between our Tūwharetoa entities and aligned our efforts. We honour his recent passing and remain committed to carrying his legacy forward through kotahitanga and steady direction.

He Mihi

Thank you to our whānau, trustees and staff for your commitment this year. I look forward to continuing to serve you all, guided always by our enduring kaupapa — Mahi Rangatira ki te Iwi.

“ Protect our wai. Support our people. Make decisions that secure our long-term future. ”

Rakei Taiaroa

Nā te Toihau

A year of steady progress

As our Chair has mentioned, this has been a focused and consistent year. We stayed clear on our responsibilities and made progress where it mattered. We protected our taiao, supported our people and kept the Board steady through change. Our approach stayed simple: protect our wai, support our people and make good decisions for the future.

Caring for our taiao

Our team worked across the rohe to monitor the health of our moana and awa. They supported hapū with local projects and responded quickly when issues came up. We also tracked policy changes and spoke up where our rights and interests were at risk. This mahi is constant, but it sits at the heart of who we are as Tūwharetoa.

He Whare Hono

A particular highlight was the opening of He Whare Hono. It is a modern, welcoming space for our people, but it is also a smart investment for the Board. It reflects both sides of our work — supporting our people today, while building something strong and lasting for tomorrow.

Financial and commercial strength

Our financial position remains strong. We managed our operations carefully and maintained steady commercial performance. Taupō Moana Group Holdings made a solid contribution, and the licensing of operators on the lake continues to support long-term growth. This financial strength allows us to deliver benefits now while also protecting the assets that support our future.

Steady through change

This year brought several challenges. Policy shifts and environmental pressures required quick decisions and calm leadership. Our kaimahi, trustees and whānau stayed committed, which kept us steady and allowed us to keep moving forward.

Our commitment to the iwi

We remain committed to our purpose — Mahi Rangatira ki te Iwi. We honour our tīpuna through our service and make decisions that support the wellbeing of our people, our taiao and our mokopunai.

Pou Taiao

Pou Taiao recognises our responsibilities as kaitiaki of our moana and awa, and our obligations to our wai and the surrounding whenua.

Project Kaitiaki

A kaitiaki journey shaped by whānau, hapū and marae

Project Kaitiaki has been a highlight for the Trust Board, bringing whānau, hapū and marae together to talk about the future of our taiao. The formal project ended in February 2025, but the benefits will continue for many years.

Wānanga across the rohe

More than 400 whānau took part in the wānanga held across six marae. Each wānanga had its own flavour, but the feeling was the same — people reconnecting, sharing stories and building confidence in their role as kaitiaki.

There was laughter, kōrero, kai and deep reflection. Many whānau said they felt more grounded and more connected to their whenua after taking part.

“ Many whānau said they felt more grounded and more connected to their whenua. ”

Planning for our Taiao

A big part of the programme was the creation of six Marae Kaitiaki Plans. These plans capture the values and priorities of each marae. They describe what whānau want for the taiao and how they want to be involved when decisions are made about their taonga. Each plan was shaped by the whānau and hapū it belongs to, with support from the Trust Board and environmental experts.

Practical tools for kaitiaki

A popular tool to come out of the programme was the Tohu Taiao Journal. It helps whānau learn the local tohu of the season, record what they see and understand the patterns of our environment. It was launched at Nukuhau Pā and Waihi Marae, and whānau of all ages took it up — tamariki, rangatahi, kaumātua and everyone in between.

Legacy of the kaupapa

Although the project has finished, we have secured more funds to complete plans with two more marae and hope to do even more in the future.

The legacy is clear. Many whānau now have more confidence to speak about taiao issues, respond to consents or lead their own environmental projects.

The plans are being used in real time, and the relationships built through the wānanga remain strong.

Ngā Taikura Taiao will carry this energy forward. Rangatahi who took part in Project Kaitiaki are now stepping into leadership roles, sharing their voices at regional and national forums and standing strong in their identity. The seeds planted in these wānanga are already growing.

Project Kaitiaki was about more than planning. It was about people. It was about pride, connection and knowing who we are. And it will continue to shape the way we care for our taiao for many years to come.

Ngā Kaihautū – Fisheries Management Plan

Ngā Kaihautū o te Awa o Waikato continued their mahi as the hapū collective responsible for the upper reaches of the Waikato Awa. Their job is to bring together the knowledge, priorities and tikanga of the hapū connected to this part of the river, and to guide the work that protects its health and mana. The group draws on the whakaaro of the whānau and marae who live beside the awa and carry its stories and responsibilities.

One of their key pieces of mahi this year was the Waikato Awa Fisheries Management Plan. Hapū set the direction for the plan, using their mātauranga of what the awa and its fisheries need.

Our role as the Trust Board was to support that direction and shape it into a clear and workable plan.

The writing was completed during the year, and the plan was formally approved in July 2025.

The plan gives hapū a stronger voice in decisions about freshwater fisheries. MPI must have regard to it, and councils must consider it when they make rules or consent decisions that affect the awa. It places hapū values at the centre of decisions that shape the health of our kai and our waterways.

This mahi is part of a wider kaupapa kaitiaki that continues to grow. Our job is to back their leadership and help them give effect to the things they want for their awa.

Crown Accord

The Crown Accord come from the Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Raukawa and Te Arawa River Iwi Waikato River Act 2010.

The Accord we signed in 2019 brings together our earlier deeds with the Crown, the 1992 and 2007 agreements.

Those deeds confirmed our ownership of the Lake Taupō lakebed and the water and air column above it.

The 2007 Deed also confirmed our ownership of the Waikato River up to Huka Falls and its tributaries.

These were important steps for Ngāti Tūwharetoa. They recognised our role in looking after these taonga.

The Accord, signed in 2019, guides how we work with the Crown around the river settlement and our deeds. It sets out how the Crown should uphold its commitments and how we continue our kaitiaki responsibilities.

We haven’t been satisfied with the Crown’s progress on some important issues. These include the riverbeds that were meant to come back to us and the ongoing challenges with the public right-of-way around Taupō Moana.

We are also watching the law changes closely, as some of them could weaken the our protections. On top of this, the wider reforms across the motu have raised questions about how Māori rights are being treated.

Because of this, the Board changed its approach. Instead of going through officials and Ministers, we wanted to have a kōrero with the Prime Minister. Our message was clear. These issues matter to our people, and we need the Crown to take them seriously and make real progress.

We have seen some movement in recent months, but there is still a long way to go. We will keep going and update whānau as the mahi develops. This kaupapa will take time. But we’re committed to it.

Our job is to protect what our tīpuna fought for, to speak up when things aren’t right and to make sure our iwi is treated fairly

Joint Management Agreement

Some of you will have heard kōrero about the Joint Management Agreement this past year.

The JMA comes from the Waikato River Settlement. It is one of the ways iwi and council can work together to look after Taupō Moana and the Upper Waikato River. And it has been a big focus for the Trust Board this year.

Leaders and kaimahi from both the Trust Board and the Taupo District Council worked together, each bringing their experience to the table. This created a better space for kōrero and helped the mahi move forward.By June, a full draft was ready. It described how iwi and council would work together on decisions that affect the lake and the rivers. It also includes that a three-year work plan will be developed once the agreement is approved.

The draft reflects the values, history and responsibilities we carry as kaitiaki.

The Council chose to defer the final decision until after the local elections, and so the mahi continues. The Board has since met with hapū to talk through what this means and to plan the next steps together. We will keep our people updated as the work moves forward.

This is long-term mahi, so we’re not done yet.

Our focus is simple: make steady progress, stay connected to hapū, and hold space for kaitiakitanga.

Emergency Management

Emergency Management is an important part of the Trust Board’s work. Our team responds to incidents that can affect the health of our lake, our rivers and our people. These can include drownings, spills, storm damage and other events that need quick and careful decisions.

This year, the team responded to 26 incidents. Each one followed a clear process. First, we gather the basic facts…what happened, where it happened and who is involved. Then we check the risks to people and the taiao. We then speak with the affected hapū and whānau so that tikanga guides what happens.

We also talk with the right agencies so everyone has the right information.

“ This year, the team responded to 26 incidents. ”

Once we know the path forward, we help coordinate the response. This can include rāhui, safety notices or ongoing monitoring. Some incidents are simple. Others take more kōrero and follow-up to make sure they are handled safely and respectfully.

Two abatement notices were issued this year based on evidence provided by the Trust Board. An abatement notice is a formal direction from the council telling someone they must stop or fix an activity because it is harming the environment.

They are not handed out lightly. The fact that our evidence supported these notices shows the importance of being on the ground, gathering information and speaking up when things aren’t right.

Much of this mahi sits with our Taiao team, but the leadership comes from our people. We especially want to mihi to Bubs Smith for his steady guidance and knowledge when incidents occur. Our job is to provide support and to make sure agencies understand our tikanga and priorities. This part of the work isn’t loud, but it matters. It protects our waterways and honours the mana of those affected.

Pou Taiao is central to our mahi

Looking After Our Lake and Rivers

Much of our 24/25 mahi focused on the health of Taupō Moana and the Upper Waikato River. We kept watch on lake levels, followed up erosion concerns and stayed alert to places where pressure on the taiao was growing.

Some of this mahi meant working alongside whānau.

At Poukura, we helped whānau understand the technical reports and supported them to secure funding for shoreline repairs. At Nukuhau, we worked with whānau and agencies on solutions for the old tyre wall, making sure the plans worked for the people who live there.

Waitiaki carried out regular monitoring across Taupō Waters. They checked stormwater outlets and drains, watched for changes in water clarity and flow and stayed alert to new contaminants.

This early-detection mahi helped us understand what was happening in real time.

Responding to Pressures on the Taiao

This year, our team worked through 192 notifications and 68 resource consents. Each one came with pages of reports, maps and technical detail that needed careful reading. Some were simple. Others required site visits, follow-up kōrero or changes to the proposals.

Toa Taiao played a key role in this mahi, especially over summer. Their work included biosecurity checks, compliance monitoring and responding to risks on the lake. A major focus was the Ironman 70.3 World Championships, where more than 5,500 competitors passed through Taupō. The team checked thousands of wetsuits and fully decontaminated about 15 high-risk suits, helping stop freshwater pests from spreading.

They also checked fishing guides and operators, monitored events like the Big Bang fireworks and stayed alert for new threats such as gold clams. This on-theground mahi protected the mauri of Taupō Moana and helped keep users accountable.

Working With Councils and Agencies

Throughout the year we met with Waikato Regional Council, Taupō District Council and other agencies. These kōrero helped us stay across rule changes, environmental planning and the decisions coming our way. Being at the table meant we could speak up early and make sure Tūwharetoa values were understood.

Community Planting and Outreach

We also supported several local planting projects and community taiao initiatives. Even when we weren’t leading the kaupapa, being there mattered. It gave us chances to connect with our people, strengthen relationships and support whānau who are taking care of their own environments. This kanohi kitea approach helps grow confidence and capability across our rohe.

Looking Ahead

The mahi carried out across 24/25 shows the scale and depth of our environmental work. Some parts are quiet and detailed. Others are hands-on and visible. Together, they help protect our moana, our awa and our whenua, and support our hapū to stand strong in their kaitiakitanga.

“

The mahi carried out across 24/25 shows the scale and depth of our environmental work.

”

Pou Tangata

Pou Tangata is focused on giving direct support to our people, through grants and targeted distribution of funds.

Manaaki Kaumātua

He pou tikanga – our steady guides

Our kaumātua carry the stories, wisdom, and character of Tūwharetoa, guiding us, steadying us, and reminding us of who we are. Looking after them is not just support, it is our responsibility as whānau.

Each year, kaumātua tell us how the medical support we provide helps them keep their independence, stay active, and remain connected to the people they love. Some talk about hearing their mokopuna clearly again. Others share how good vision or reliable dental care has restored confidence. Simple things, but important ones.

One kaumātua shared,

“I am so grateful for this pūtea… If my skills are ever needed, I would be more than happy to koha them back to anyone who may benefit.”

A quiet reminder that manaaki flows both ways.

Support that keeps us connected

Our kaumātua medical grants help with hearing treatment, dental care, eye care, and travel to medical appointments. This support removes practical barriers so kaumātua can stay well, stay engaged, and stay present with their whānau and communities.

But support is more than just practical help…

Celebrating Our Kaumātua

This year’s kaumātua lunch brought warmth and connection to the forefront. Kaumātua from 33 Tūwharetoa marae joined us for a day of shared stories, kai, and laughter. It was a moment to slow down, acknowledge their contribution, and celebrate the people who keep our marae warm and hold the memories of our tīpuna.

This is manaaki in action. Simple, meaningful support that helps our kaumātua live well and stay connected to the heart of our iwi.

KAUMĀTUA MEDICAL SUPPORT 2024/25

351

HEARING GRANTS

249

EYE CARE GRANTS

351

DENTAL GRANTS

GRANTS FOR TRAVEL TO MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS

He Ara Whakatupu

He iwi whai hua – a people full of potential

Across Tūwharetoa, our people are learning, training, creating, researching, and carving out their own futures. Education has always been a strength of our iwi — a way we build confidence, sharpen our skills, and shape opportunities for ourselves and our whānau.

Pou Tangata

This year, more than 1,800 Tūwharetoa learners received support through Pou Tangata. Every one of them is on their own path, bringing their own talent, determination, and ideas. The impact goes well beyond one person — learning supports whole households, whole whānau, and eventually, the iwi.

Working together for greater reach

We do this mahi alongside Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust and Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries. By combining our pūtea and effort, we back more learners and create a wider range of opportunities across the rohe and beyond.

It’s simple: together, we reach further.

I’m truly grateful for the awhina and tautoko I received. I hope to carry this kaupapa forward and give back to our iwi and wider community.

“ Thank you so much for this grant… I cannot begin to describe the relief. This grant blesses us. ”

Many journeys, one purpose

Our grants and scholarships support a wide spread of learning — early childhood through to secondary, tertiary, trades, and specialist pathways. Some are beginning their education, some are upskilling for work, and others are deep in research and postgraduate study.

The journeys are diverse, but the purpose is the same: supporting our people to grow in the ways that matter to them.

Learners tell us that this tautoko gives them room to focus, stay motivated, and keep moving forward. It’s not about “fixing” anything — it’s about backing the potential that already exists.

Investing in our people

The benefits of education ripple out. They show up in whānau who feel proud and hopeful. In parents who see their tamariki growing in confidence. In adults taking on new learning later in life. And in graduates returning home with skills ready to contribute in their own ways.

These grants don’t create success — our people do that.

What they do is clear the path a little, so talent, hard work, and determination can shine through.

“

Your support strengthens my commitment to succeed and contribute meaningfully to our iwi.”

”

Our people are the heart of everything we do

Tūwharetoa has a growing registered membership, now more than 28,000 strong, with around 1,000 new whānau members joining our iwi records this year.

Through Pou Tangata, we supported our people with almost 2,850 grants, investing just under $1.2 million back into Tūwharetoa whānau.

What does that look like?

A bit more manaaki along the way alongside our grants, Pou Tangata also supports kaupapa that help keep our whānau connected, confident, and cared for.

Tamariki Hī Ika continues to encourage our young people onto the lake and awa, strengthening their connection to fishing, mahinga kai, and the places that define us.

We continue to contribute to the Coastguard cadet scheme and the Tūrangi Volunteer Coastguard, supporting water safety and community capability on Taupō Moana.

We also provided support to 13 Tūwharetoa kōhanga reo, backing our youngest learners in spaces grounded in reo, tikanga, and whānau.

The Business Start-Up Grant remains available for whānau exploring new ventures and ideas, offering future potential for Tūwharetoa-led enterprise.

Our Kākahu Tamariki Programme, delivered with Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust, provides schoolready packs for our young learners. TST supplies key items such as bags, lunchboxes, books and vouchers, while TMTB contributes a potae, t-shirt, and hoodie. Many whānau express their gratitude when collecting these packs.

Together, these kaupapa reflect the depth and reach of Pou Tangata and the many ways we stand alongside Tūwharetoa whānau throughout the year.

Pou Tikanga

Pou Tikanga is focused on supporting marae and hapū to retain and share Tūwharetoatanga, so our mātauranga, tikanga and reo is kept alive for future generations.

Our marae, our places

Our marae sit at the centre of our iwi. They are where we gather, uphold tikanga, welcome manuhiri, and carry the stories and responsibilities handed down to us.

This year, we continue to focus on making sure haukāinga have the support they need to keep these places strong.

Investing in safe, resilient marae

We supported major capital works across the rohe this year. Only one marae can receive this funding each year. This ensures the investment is large enough to make a real difference and is not spread too thinly.

Waihi Marae received $750,000 for critical upgrades including ablution blocks, roof work, paepae, not to mention foundations and flooring in Hinana.

These works are essential to keep the marae safe, functional and ready to host iwi kaupapa.

We’re also excited to have been part of Maroanui Marae rebuilding their dining room and kitchen. After two years of support they are celebrating the opening of their marae in December.

These investments ensure our marae remain places where whānau can gather, practise tikanga, and host events without the worry of unsafe or outdated facilities.

“ Before Xero, everything was on Excel and took hours. Now I can reconcile, pay bills, raise invoices and prepare reports without the stress. This system is lifechanging. I honestly would have resigned ages ago if we didn’t have Marae Xero.

Insurance that removes pressure from haukāinga

Insurance is one of the biggest annual costs for our marae. To ease this load, we paid $416,000 in insurance premiums for 27 marae this year. This support protects our whare and reduces financial stress on committees who already carry a heavy voluntary workload.

Marae Xero: A system that makes a real difference

More marae are moving away from manual spreadsheets and into a proper accounting system. This year, 11 marae used Marae Xero, with the Board covering subscription costs and providing annual training.

The impact is immediate and the value speaks for itself.

Safer, well-supported marae

Our safety and readiness work continued across the rohe this year. We checked essential systems, followed up on maintenance needs, and made sure equipment was working as it should. Marae also received practical guidance on gas use, kai preparation and emergency planning. We completed AED checks during these visits and supported haukāinga to keep their spaces safe for everyday use and large gatherings. The Korowai Āwhina also played an important role for marae to connect with each other and receive updates on kaupapa. These included Waitiaki, Project Kaitiaki, insurance and compliance.

A strong foundation for our tikanga

By investing in our haukāinga, we are building long-term stability for our marae. When our marae are strong, our tikanga is strong. And when the load is shared, our people can focus on the things that matter most… caring for whānau, supporting tamariki, and keeping our Tūwharetoatanga alive

Mahinga kai on our wai

Mahinga kai remains an important part of life for many whānau. It connects us to the wai, supports marae and kaumātua, and gives tamariki safe ways to learn these practices. This year our support focused on making access simple for both marae and whānau.

Kai for the pā

We issued 426 fishing licences and 55 boat ramp permits to marae. These licences help haukāinga continue long-standing practices, gather kai for hui, and support kaumātua when needed. They also make it easier for marae to manage busy events and large gatherings on their own terms.

Learning the ropes

Our Tamariki Hī Ika kaupapa supported the next generation of fishers. Tamariki received 23 free season licences during this period. The kaupapa is designed to build confidence and create safe, supported opportunities for tamariki to learn mahinga kai on Taupō Moana and in our awa.

Together, these two kaupapa help keep our knowledge and practices active. Marae continue their role in gathering and sharing kai. Tamariki learn the skills and tikanga they will carry into the future.

Our knowledge, our connections

Keeping our mātauranga close

We continued to invest in resources and tools that help whānau access, use and protect their mātauranga. This included 250 Matariki resources for wānanga and 320 Te Wiki o te Reo Māori packs. These resources are simple, practical and designed to support learning at home, at kura and on the marae.

The Rokirokitia programme was introduced this year. Whānau from Korohe, Hirangi and Waihi marae took part in workshops to learn how to digitise old media and important documents. Korohe and Otukou marae also got into hands-on digitisation and capturing audio, photos, maps and handwritten material.

We also continued to help marae access national archives. This included support to navigate Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision, the Alexander Turnbull Library, Archives New Zealand and Te Papa. This mahi keeps our history safe and within reach of the people it belongs to.

Kaupapa that bring us together

We also supported key iwi kaupapa that keep our tikanga strong. These are events where our whānau gather in large numbers and where Tūwharetoa has long-standing relationships.

Taiopenga remains a major event in our rohe. It brings together whānau from the iwi and across the wider rohe to celebrate ngā mahi ahurea. We provided funding and were present throughout the festival to support whānau, register beneficiaries and engage with our hapori.

We also supported travel and attendance for Koroneihana and Rātana, recognising our historic connections and the value of showing up as Tūwharetoa.

Ruia Taitea, our inaugural ahurei, was another key kaupapa. It brought our hapū together in a positive and unifying way.

Finally, we continue our support for the Matua Tū Taua, which remains an important part of the Arikitanga and the whakataukī Hāpai te Ariki, Hāpai te iwi.

Across these events, we provided funding where needed, but we also turned up in person. Being present with our people is as important as the sponsorship itself.

Pou Tātāwhai

Pou Tātāwhai ensures the Trust Board is well-governed, and financially secure for future generations.

He Whare Hono

When He Whare Hono opened earlier this year, it marked an exciting moment for our iwi. For the first time, we had a shared place right in the centre of Taupō where our people, our teams, and our partners could come together. It’s a space that feels open and familiar the moment you walk in. Warm, grounded, and unmistakably Tūwharetoa.

A home for our iwi and for the wider community

Today, He Whare Hono is home to several Tūwharetoa organisations, bringing our mahi into one shared space. But it doesn’t stop there. Taupō District Council, Amplify, and Love Taupō also work from the whare, creating a natural hub where our iwi and community partners can connect, kōrero, and collaborate with ease.

The design draws from our whenua, our wai and our stories

The building has been shaped with us in mind. Natural colours, warm textures, and open spaces give it a calm, grounded feel. The layout makes it easy for people to move between hui, offices, and shared areas.

Our amazing Tūwharetoa ringatoi created artworks that bring our whakapapa and narratives into the space in bold, creative ways. These pieces add life and meaning to the building, reminding us — and everyone who visits that this is a Tūwharetoa place.

E rere tonu ana ngā mihi maioha kia koutou

- Te Maari Gardiner, Haki Williams, Kingi Pitiroi, Te Manawa Williams, Len Hetet.

A place our whānau can walk into

One of the most important parts of He Whare Hono is how easy it is for whānau to come in, ask questions, get support, or simply reconnect kanohi ki te kanohi. It supports our people, anchors our mahi, and gives us a shared place to plan for the future.

Te Whare Hono o Tūwharetoa Limited Partnership

This wasn’t just a Trust Board kaupapa. Many of our trusts came together together to make this happen.

Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board

Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust

Tauhara Properties Limited

Tupu Angitu Limited

Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries Holdings Limited

Lake Rotoaira Trust

Investing with purpose

Every dollar we invest has a job: to help us look after our taonga and support our people. Our funds aren’t about building wealth for the sake of it.

They exist so we can back our kaupapa across the iwi, strengthen our future, and keep Tūwharetoa in a strong position for the generations ahead.

A strong, steady year

This year our investment funds performed well, with returns over 9%. We didn’t chase risky markets or short-term gains. Instead, we stayed focused on a long-term, diversified approach that protects the pūtea while still growing it.

This continues a pattern we’ve seen for many years with our funds returning between 9% and 10% this year. Over the long run they have steadily delivered around 7–8% a year after fees — far stronger than what we would get by simply holding cash in the bank. Even with normal ups and downs, this approach keeps the pūtea growing.

“Over 9% return this year from a steady, well-balanced investment approach.”

Investing with our values

Our investment approach reflects who we are as an iwi. We continue to reduce our exposure to highcarbon activities and avoid unnecessary climate risk. This low-carbon setting has proven to be both responsible and financially sound, helping us grow the pūtea while matching the values we hold as Tūwharetoa.

What this means for our people

Strong, steady returns help us fund the mahi that matters — supporting whānau, protecting our taiao, and investing in opportunities that strengthen our iwi. We invest with purpose and care, making decisions that support our people today and help secure the future for those who will follow.

“ Beautiful tops. I love wearing mine. Warm and light to wear. Gonna order a couple more. Tūwharetoa proud!

”

Wearing Tūwharetoa with pride

One of the unexpected highlights this year has been the response to our Tūwharetoa merchandise. What started as a small idea, a way for our people to wear something that reflects who we are, has turned into a kaupapa that whānau have really embraced. Everywhere we look, our people are wearing our designs with pride.

Designed by one of our own

The design work was led by Te Manawa Williams, drawing on Tūwharetoa patterns and identity in a modern, simple way.

The result is something that feels familiar and grounded, while still being fresh and easy to wear. It’s a look whānau have connected with straight away.

Our people loved it

As soon as the merch went live, the comments came flooding in. Whānau shared photos, messages, and stories about why they wanted one, or why they were already wearing theirs. Many described the tops and hoodies as warm, light, comfortable, and something that makes them feel connected to Tūwharetoa no matter where they are.

A small kaupapa with a big heart

The merchandise isn’t about clothing. It’s about identity, belonging, and the pride our people carry in being Tūwharetoa. This kaupapa has given whānau a simple way to show that pride, and the response has shown just how much it means to our people to see themselves reflected in what they wear.

“ Beautiful tops. I love wearing mine. Warm and light to wear. Gonna order a couple more. Tūwharetoa proud! ”

Our Finances at a Glance

What did we do?

A snapshot of the key activities and kaupapa delivered across the year1.

Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board

How it was funded and what it cost?2

Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board Revenue: $19.3m

$10.6m

$8.7m

What we own and what we owe?3

Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board

What we own (assets): Current assets: $12.1m Non-current assets: $104.8m

Total assets: $117.0m

What we owe (liabilities):

Current liabilities: $4.3m Non-current liabilities: $214k

Total liabilities: $4.5m Net assets: $112.5m

How we did our accounting

Taupō Waters Trust

$8.9m

$7.9m

$0.9m

Taupō Waters Trust

What we own (assets): Current assets: $6.0m Non-current assets: $40.0m

Total assets: $46.0m

What we owe (liabilities):

Current liabilities: $2.2m Non-current liabilities: $0.1m

Total liabilities: $2.3m Net assets: $43.6m

We follow Public Benefit Entity standards, which ensures our reporting is transparent, reliable, and independently audited.

2Refer to Summarised Statement of Comprehensive Revenue & Expenses p 8 and p14 of Annual Report 2025

3Refer to Summarised Statement of Financial Position p10 and p 18 of Annual Report 2025

Budgets for the year ahead

5,127,328

567,090

3,500,000

4,162,090

965,238

Our Hāpai Ō

Licensing on Taupō Moana

Taupō Moana is one of our most important taonga, and the licensing work we do helps protect it for everyone who uses it. Our role is to make sure operators meet the standards expected on the lake and that tikanga is upheld across their activities.

We support operators to get things right. We help them understand requirements, addressing issues early, and working through improvements where needed.

At the same time, we take firm action when safety, compliance, or our values are at risk. This balanced approach protects Taupō Moana, supports good operators, and keeps the lake safe and well-managed for all.

The Engine Room

Behind every kaupapa is a large body of operational work that keeps the Trust Board moving. Our corporate services team looks after the systems and processes that enable all of our other mahi.

This includes finance, payroll, HR, contracts, IT systems, record-keeping, procurement, and keeping us on track with audit, compliance, and legislative requirements. We also maintain the internal tools that support our teams every day — M-Files, Salesforce, Asana, and our wider digital systems — so information flows smoothly and teams can work efficiently.

These functions often sit in the background, but they are essential. Good systems give us the stability needed to deliver for our people, respond quickly when opportunities arise, and plan confidently for the future. They ensure we can focus our energy where it matters: supporting whānau, protecting our taiao, and strengthening our iwi.

Taupō Moana Group Holdings Ltd

Taupō Moana holds our identity.

Taupō Moana Group Holdings (TMGH) helps make sure our stories, our people, and our presence are front and centre on our lake. It’s one way we create opportunities for whānau and build economic strength that supports our iwi into the future.

Why TMGH matters to us

TMGH isn’t just a set of tourism businesses. It represents a visible Tūwharetoa presence on our lake and in our rohe. When visitors come to Taupō Moana, we want them to experience it through a Tūwharetoa lens and our stories.

Every boat, every attraction, every staff member on the lakefront helps make that happen.

A year of momentum

Hole in One

Hole in One had another big year. Consents for its redevelopment were approved, and we’ve expanded the site and improve the visitor experience. It’s becoming one of the standout spaces on the lakefront — a proud Tūwharetoa presence.

Chris Jolly Outdoors

Chris Jolly Outdoors had another solid year, welcoming thousands of people onto the lake. Our ownership in the company has grown, giving us a stronger foundation as we look ahead. We’re also shaping the stories shared about Taupō Moana and how visitors connect with this place.

Taupō Parasail

Taupō Parasail had a challenging weather season but still delivered unforgettable experiences for many visitors. It remains an important part of our tourism footprint and strengthens our presence across Taupō Moana.

Our people at the centre

More whānau than ever are joining TMGH businesses. Over 80 applications came through Tūwharetoa networks, and around 60 staff are employed during our peak summer season — many of them our rangatahi. These roles create pathways, confidence, and experience for our people, right here at home.

Taupō Waters Trust

Looking after Taupō Moana, together

Taupō Waters Trust has a clear role.

It is responsible for administering the lakebed and associated assets. This includes making sure commercial activity on Taupō Moana meets the standards expected of mana whenua. Although the Trust is a distinct legal entity, much of the dayto-day mahi is delivered by our Trust Board team through Pou Taiao and Pou Tātāwhai.

Where care and management meet

The Trust’s responsibilities sit across both pou. Its environmental work helps us understand the health of the lake and guide decisions about

protection and restoration. Its licensing work ensures activity on the lake is carried out safely, respectfully and in line with good practice. You can see more about this mahi in the Pou Taiao and Pou Tātāwhai sections of this report.

A role that supports our wider responsibilities

Taupō Waters Trust provides the structure we need to look after

Taupō Moana well. It keeps the legal, environmental and commercial parts aligned, and helps the Board uphold its responsibilities as kaitiaki. It is steady, practical work that helps protect a taonga that belongs to us all.

Looking Forward

Tiro ki te pae tata

The year ahead is about making things work for our people. Our refreshed Strategic Plan gives us a clear path: stay grounded in tikanga, focus on what matters most to whānau, and keep things practical and accountable.

We’ve taken on board the feedback from our people. You want to hear from us more often. You want clear, accurate information. And you want to understand how our decisions support whānau, hapū and marae. This is a priority for us, and you will see stronger engagement and communication across our mahi.

Tūwharetoatanga sits at the centre of the new plan. It anchors how we make decisions and how we deliver. It keeps us aligned to who we are, not to outside frameworks that don’t reflect us. Every pathway in the strategy pushes us to strengthen identity, uphold our responsibilities as kaitiaki, and support the wellbeing of our people in a way that is sustainable.

This year we will focus on building systems that help the Board and the organisation work better, improving how we share information, and making sure our mahi is easy to follow. Most importantly, we are committed to showing a stronger link between the aspirations of our people, the mahi we deliver, and the outcomes you experience.

We remain committed to Hoani Te Heuheu’s vision of Mahi Rangatira ki te Iwi now and into the future.

Strategic Plan

Mahi Rangatira ki te Iwi

“Make it work for our people”

Here’s how we will make sure all our mahi serves our people in a way that is practical, meaningful, accountable, and grounded in Tūwharetoatanga:

Ngā Ara Matua

Strategic Pathways

Ko Tūwharetoa te Iwi

Ngāti Tūwharetoa live and thrive as Tūwharetoa.

He Mana Kaitiaki tō te iwi

We are kaitiaki of our taonga, Taupō Moana, awa, and whenua.

He Wai Oranga mō te Iwi

Build, deliver, and support initiatives that provide sustenance for our people.

Mahi Tika,

Mahi

Pono

We will apply tikanga Tūwharetoa to all our mahi. This is how we ensure that every decision, action and initiative is grounded in our values, practices and serves Ngāti Tūwharetoa.

2025-2027

Ko Tongariro te maunga

Ko Taupō te moana

Ko Tūwharetoa te iwi

Ko Te Heuheu te tangata

Ngā Hua

Outcomes

A thriving iwi connected by whakapapa to people and place with a unique cultural identity.

Sustainable management of Taupō Moana and awa.

Our people are thriving and resilient in all aspects of their lives.

Ngā Mahi:

Outputs are what we deliver. They are our work programmes, initiatives, kaupapa.

Ngā Taituara:

Enablers are systems, tools, people and resources. They are the ‘engine room’ that helps us do our mahi.

He Rau Tau, He Rau Mahara

In 2026, we mark 100 years of the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board. It’s a significant moment — not for the Board alone, but for all our whānau. Across a century, our tīpuna, our kaumātua, our marae, and our hapū have all shaped the path we stand on today. This milestone belongs to all of us.

Throughout the year we’ll create opportunities for whānau to come together, reflect, and celebrate in ways that feel real and connected to who we are. Some events will be familiar, others will be new, but each one will carry the wairua of the centenary: acknowledging our past, strengthening our relationships today, and looking ahead to the future our tamariki and mokopuna will inherit.

The focus is simple — making space for our people to gather, share stories, enjoy each other’s company, and recognise the legacy handed down to us. Whether it’s a wānanga, a whānau day, time on the water, or a moment to honour those who paved the way, this year is about us as a collective.

As we head into this centenary year, we carry the memory of those who walked before us and the hope of those who will follow. He rau mahara kua herea e te rautāwhiri o tō tātou iwi. We can’t wait to mark this milestone with you and your whānau across 2026.

Please scan the QR Code for the following publications.

TE PŪRONGO-Ā-TAU

2025 Annual Report

NGĀ WHAKAWHIWHINGA 2025 Grants and Scholarship Recipients

HUI-Ā-TAU

2024 Minutes

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Email: info@tuwharetoa.co.nz

Website: www.tuwharetoa.co.nz