24/07/2026
Kei te Hikatoa o Te Puna Tahua Toa anei tō taua e tūpou nei.
Yesterday we had the privilege of an acknowledging one of our great trailblazers in the Finance world.
Waihō ma tana iwi ia e mihia.
Proud of you Joe!
Congratulations to our Chief Financial Officer, Joe Hanita, on being named the 2026 recipient of the Hikatoa! Trailblazer Award.
Presented by Te Puna Tahua Toa, the Hikatoa! Trailblazer Award recognises individuals who keep the fires of leadership burning across generations through an unwavering commitment to advancing Māori prosperity, sovereignty and cultural vitality. Inspired by the whakataukī "Ko te ahikā te mana o te whenua," the award celebrates leaders who bring a Te Ao Māori worldview to modern business and finance.
Joe joins an esteemed group of previous recipients including Sir Hēnare Ngata KBE, Professor Whatarangi Winiata and Hinerangi Raumati Tu'ua MNZM FCA, reflecting the significance of this recognition and the calibre of leadership it honours.
Joe's career has spanned more than two decades of financial leadership across Māori organisations, where he has consistently combined commercial excellence with a deep commitment to kaupapa Māori. His leadership, integrity and dedication to creating enduring outcomes for iwi and future generations make him a worthy recipient of this prestigious honour.
Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
Congratulations Joe on this well-deserved recognition. We are proud to have you as part of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, and look forward to the leadership you will bring in your new role as Group CFO.
📸 Pictured: Kaumatua Phil Tane, Chief Financial Officer Joe Hanita and Te Puna Tahua Toa Executive Committee Member Jamie Rihia.