Trustee appointments for Foundation North

Last week the Community Trusts of Aotearoa were notified by the Associate Minister of Finance of Trustee appointments and reappointments, effective 30 January 2026.

At Foundation North we look forward to welcoming the following new Trustees who will be joining our Board in the New Year:

• Natalie Bridges - with a background in journalism and PR, Natalie founded Blink Public Relations. She has served as a trustee on TECT and is currently completing a degree in Fine Arts.

• Martin Cleave – a producer within film and television for over 30 years, Martin is director of 2B Media and serves on the Board of Ngātiwai.

• Philip Crump – an accomplished lawyer, Philip serves on the Board of NZ On Air and was appointed to the Waitangi Tribunal earlier this year.

• Aryana Nafissi – a barrister and solicitor, Aryana is a Tax Advisor at NZ Super Fund and serves on the Board of the Young Finance Professionals Committee of INFINZ.

We are also very pleased to retain the services of Fiugalu Tevita Funaki MNZM for a second four-year term.

In acknowledging our departing Trustees – Sara-Jane Elika, Hana Maihi and Stephen Park – Chair Michelle Tsui warmly thanked them for their diligent and dedicated service, and for the skills and experience they have brought to the governance table.

In February 2026, Trustees and staff will gather to welcome our new Trustees, and farewell those whose terms have ended.