Manaia Te Wiata has been appointed chief executive of Matamata-Piako District Council.
Manaia Te Wiata has been appointed chief executive of Matamata-Piako District Council.
Matamata-Piako District Council’s Manaia Te Wiata, who has been its group manager of business support for the past 30 years, will be taking the reins as chief executive when Don McLeod retires.
Mayor Adrienne Wilcock said the council went through a “thorough external recruitment process” as the CEO position was “critical” to a progressive council.
“We were impressed with the high calibre of candidates for the role, and went through several rounds of interviews,” Wilcock said.
“Manaia was a clear stand out from the pool of candidates and the council was unanimous in appointing him to the role.”
She highlighted his unique combination of strategic vision, leadership and community passion, saying he wasn’t only a skilled leader, but genuinely cared for the community.
“His track record, strategic focus, and local connections make him the perfect fit for the CEO position. I’m confident he’ll provide excellent continuity for our staff and the community, building on the strong legacy of Don McLeod, who has served the council and community for 25 years.”
McLeod approved of Te Wiata’s appointment, saying the community would be in “safe hands” with his leadership.
“He has been a valued part of council’s executive team for 30 years and his understanding of our projects, goals, and community needs is second to none.”
Te Wiata has lived in the district since 1985, and came from Ngāruawāhia to join the Morrinsville Borough Council. He then joined MPDC, which was formed in 1989, as the finance manager, and became an executive member in 1994.
In addition to council finances, information management and asset management, he’s been responsible for a wide range of council activities, including pools, facilities, libraries, water and wastewater systems, works and property.
These roles have brought him into contact with many people across the district. With his wife Brenda, they’ve formed strong connections in the district, raising their family in Morrinsville and participating in a wide range of sports and community activities
His Waikato iwi also have strong links to the district’s iwi.
He takes pride in the many things the council does to improve people’s lives and was particularly proud of the great team at Matamata-Piako District Council.
“We have a diverse, passionate, and committed team, and I feel honoured to have been selected to lead the organisation by Mayor Adrienne and the council.”
Having worked with Mcleod since 1989, he acknowledged that “Don has been an amazing chief executive, and I will do my best to continue the great legacy he has established.”
