Ko Wai Mātou

DIRECTOR

Hineatauira (Ira) Wilkinson

BCom, CA

Ngāti Porou, Te Ātiawa

Ira brings over two decades of expertise in accounting to her role as a Board member of the Māori Education Trust. Her extensive background includes a tenure as an Associate Partner at Findex NZ Ltd., an international firm known for its proficiency in Accounting and Audit.

In 2023, she established Kākano Advisory Ltd, where she is a co-director of the firm based in Wellington and Auckland, an Accounting, Tax and Advisory practice. Ira leverage’s her deep understanding of accounting and tax compliance to deliver advisory services to diverse clientele, including individuals, small to medium enterprises, and Trusts. Dedicated to fostering the growth of Māori business, Ira combines her professional insight with a culturally informed approach to support and guide Māori entrepreneurs.

Her commitment extends beyond her directorial duties at the Māori Education Trust as she holds Director/Trusteeship roles with the Tu Atea Network Services Ltd and the Anglican Insurance Board. Ira also contributes to the financial oversight and governance of the New Zealand Māori Council as an Audit and Risk Committee member. Ira is currently the Deputy Chair of the Māori Education Trust.

DIRECTOR

Heta Hudson

LLB

Ngāti Awa, Tūhoe, Whakatōhea, Ngāi Tai

Heta Hudson brings over 25 years of business advisory experience, having worked extensively within government agencies and, more recently, as a Partner at Findex, a leading trans-Tasman accounting and wealth management firm. Throughout his career, he has provided counsel on a wide range of commercial and governance matters, supporting entities such as iwi organisations, Māori land trusts, and whānau-owned businesses.

Current Board Roles

· Chair, Whāriki Māori Business Network

· Director, Manaaki Law

· Director, Ngāti Paoa Group Investments Ltd

· Director, Pouarua Farm Limited Partnership

DIRECTOR

Leisa Nathan

CA

Ngati Whatua, Ngapuhi, Ngati Kahu, Ngati Raukawa

A Chartered Accountant with over 25 years’ experience, Leisa brings deep expertise in financial reporting, governance, and business advisory services. Her previous experience includes her time as an Auditor with KPMG, Business Manager with Waitemata DHB and Service Manager with NZTE before establishing a training provider and managing this for over 20 years.

Leisa was the previous Chairperson for Kahui Tu Kaha Limited and Treasurer for Te Matapihi He Tirohanga Mo Te Iwi Trust. She is also the Director of Property Investing and Trading entities.

She is passionate about empowering organisations to build sustainable financial and governance capability. Leisa leads Kākano with a clear kaupapa: to grow financially capable, confident clients through trusted advice, integrity, and relationships built on manaakitanga and excellence.