My wife and I have three children (two of them were born in Rotorua) and my wife is a secondary school teacher who has taught at Rotorua Girls High School. We became grandparents in the past year which is something we thoroughly enjoy.
What attracted you to the chief executive job for Te Arawa Group Holdings?
It was really a combination of my interest in the primary sector and the potential of the Maori economy.
There is no doubt the Maori economy will be significant for New Zealand, particularly across the primary sector. TAGH has identified forestry, agribusiness, geothermal energy, tourism, and property as sectors for investment.
The focus on the primary sector and the diversity of activity all add to the attraction of the role. In addition I like the strategic focus of adding value for future generations.
What do you love about Rotorua?
The location is attractive in that it is very central to everything and surrounded by spectacular lakes and forests, but the main feature for me would have to be the people.
I have lived here twice before and have a number of friends and acquaintances, both in Rotorua and the surrounding region. I always feel comfortable returning to Rotorua.
Who is one of the greatest Maori leaders you admire?
It is difficult to single out one person as there have been a number of great Maori leaders, both historically and to the present day.
However, I have always been a great admirer of the Maori Battalion for their bravery and the standards they set both during and after the war both for Maori and New Zealand in general.
If you could have dinner with anyone past or present who would it be?
I cannot go past my wife and family. My wife and I both lead busy lives so its always good to have a family dinner, particularly now with our extended family and new mokopuna.
What are three great things about Te Arawa?
Te Arawa are a well known iwi with a number of great features. I am currently reading the book on their history and I'm not sure it's my place to comment.
However, I admire their resilience and resolve which has brought them successfully through a number of challenging historical events.
What are three things about yourself that people would not know?
Firstly, I have always been a keen sportsman having played sub-union representative rugby and captained the Chilean cricket team. I coached for a while and continue to follow most sports although my participation now is limited to golf, fishing and diving.
Secondly, I had a great professional and family experience living in Chile where our family all learnt to speak Spanish and this experience has led to a continuing interest in other cultures and languages.
Thirdly, I have a keen personal interest in the educational and vocational development of young people. This is something I would like to continue to pursue in my new role.
