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The chief executive of the Maori Language Commission, Haami Piripi, has stepped down after seven years.
Mr Piripi had been an outspoken CEO who had inspired loyalty and commitment among staff, Commissioner Erima Henare said in a statement.
He was leaving the organisation so he could "return to his homeland and fulfil his destiny," Mr Henare said.
"While the board and staff are sad to see Haami go it is in the knowledge that he returns to lead his iwi of Te Rarawa in the far north.
"It is a role he has been trained and groomed for his whole life," she said.
A new CEO would be announced this week, Mr Henare said.
- NZPA
