Ko te manu e kai ana i te miro, nōnā te ngahere
Ko te manu e kai ana i te mātauranga, nōnā te ao
The bird that consumes the miro berry, its domain is the forest
The bird that consumes knowledge, its domain is the world

Ko Tama Tawhai tōku ingoa.

He uri ahau nō Ngāti Kahungnu, Ngāti Rangi, Ngāti Porou, Rangitane.

Originally from Hawke’s Bay I moved to Hamilton 20 years ago to study at Waikato University and graduated with Law and Science degrees. There I met my wife Natalie and together we have 2 children, both at Te Ao Mārama – Emilie-Cate (8) and Blake (5).

Every day they come home full of excitement ready to share how stimulating their day has been. I believe that is down to the passion and dedication the whole team at Te Ao Mārama puts in to making the learning environment as comfortable and enjoyable for all the tamariki. The school has a real sense of whanaungatanga and manaakitanga, which are values that align closely with our whānau. I’ve also seen the same enthusiasm in others at Te Ao Mārama through coaching sports teams and helping with the kapa haka roopu.

I stood for the Board because I want to see that excitement and enthusiasm continue, by helping to drive the vision and values for the school, ensuring the team has the tools and support to continue their awesome mahi and enabling our tamariki to reach their personal and educational achievements.

For the last 15 years I’ve worked in both the private and public sector on national infrastructure projects, predominantly in roles involving programme and contract management, and stakeholder relationship management. I’ve worked with a broad range of people and enjoy working collaboratively to achieve a desired outcome and I appreciate the value that a diverse range of ideas and experiences can contribute towards a common goal.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with whanau and friends, remaining active through regular exercise, getting involved with our kids sports and activities, and travelling both within NZ and abroad (when borders allow).

Also, in complete full disclosure, I still support the Hurricanes and the Magpies… and unfortunately the Warriors.

I am honoured to represent the Te Ao Mārama whānau and community as a member of the School Board and look forward to preparing our manu to take on the world.