Towards the end of last year, one of our long-standing Directors, Kate Cherrington, completed her time with Tapuwae Roa, closing an important chapter in the Trust’s story and leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape our kaupapa today.
Kate’s journey with the Trust began in 2017, when she joined the Board of Te Pūtea Whakatupu Trust under the leadership of the late Matua Norm Dewes, bringing a steady presence, sharp foresight, and an unwavering belief in the potential of our people.
Kate later stepped into the role of Chair during one of the most pivotal chapters in the Trust’s history, guiding us through transition, growth, and transformation as we evolved from Te Pūtea Whakatupu into Tapuwae Roa. This was not simply a change of name, but a re-grounding of purpose and a realignment of direction toward ambitious, impact-driven aspirations.
Kate consistently encouraged the Trust to pursue a bold vision of the future, creating space for innovation, experimentation, and growth with a soft landing for our people. Many of our kaupapa were initiated or nurtured through her belief that our people should be encouraged to give things a go and explore new ideas without fear of failing. Her leadership embraced the whakataukī, whaia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu koe, me he maunga teitei.
Kate was a significant influence as the Trust deepened its role within the philanthropy and impact investment space, shifting the Trust towards toward a more intentional, impact-focused approach to how pūtea is mobilised in ways that honours intergenerational responsibility and mokopuna futures. This thinking helped position Tapuwae Roa as a leading voice in Indigenous philanthropy and contributed to the Trust being recognised internationally as a case study in Indigenous-led, intergenerational approaches to impact investing.
Beyond this, Kate was pivotal in building and maintaining strong relationships with both stakeholders and new partners. She played a key role in building cross-Tasman relationships and opening global pathways, including fostering meaningful connections with other Indigenous communities internationally, such as our Toi Tukua partnership with Native Max of Turtle Island, creating opportunities for Indigenous creatives to connect, collaborate, and share stories across oceans. Kate was also instrumental in formally shaping and naming the Kāhui o Te Ohu Kaimoana, bringing together Te Ohu Kaimoana, Te Wai Māori, and Tapuwae Roa under a shared sense of collective identity and purpose.
Beyond governance, Kate’s contribution extended generously into delivery. Whether as a kaikōrero at Amorangi Māori in Governance Summit, a pūkenga within He Tukutuku Koiora, or as a mentor behind the scenes, Kate was a staunch advocate that our legislative responsibilities were our minimum requirement, and we will be forever grateful for Kate’s long and impactful service to our Trust.
Ngā aroha nui ki a koe, Kate. Your leadership has helped shape who we are today, and your contribution and legacy will continue to guide us as we move toward our Hawaiki.
