The Ngai Tuhoe Tribal Authority has hired its first chief executive to build the organisation and the tribe's economy and improve descendants' quality of life.
Te Uru Taumatua was ratified last year after two years of iwi engagement and development, and as part of its growth it aimed to appoint someone to direct and build the authority.
Kirsti Luke has been appointed as the chief executive.
Her role includes recruiting management staff, building relationships with stakeholders and government agencies, and developing policies to improve or co-ordinate options for housing, health and employment for Tuhoe.
She will also provide business recommendations to build up the tribe's economy.
The organisation's chairperson, Tamati Kruger, says Ms Luke holds a Bachelor of Law (LLB) degree and brings financial management experience.
He says she is knowledgeable about the tribe's treaty claims and was also involved in setting up Te Uru Taumatua.
