New Trustee Appointed to Te Whare
Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri Trust is pleased to welcome Carmen Tonks (Te Roroa, Te Rarawa) to its Board, bringing strong financial expertise and a genuine connection to Te Tai Tokerau.
Carmen is a Chartered Accountant with nearly 15 years’ experience in professional practice. Over that time, she has worked alongside a range of trusts, including iwi settlement trusts, building solid experience in financial reporting, audit, and governance.
Her appointment brings practical insight to the Board, particularly in supporting strong financial oversight and long-term sustainability.Carmen has whakapapa connections to Te Tai Tokerau.
She grew up in Manurewa, where her whānau still live, and is now based in Whangārei. She currently works as a Group Accountant for an organisation focused on conservation and biodiversity.Board Chair Natalie Vincent welcomed Carmen to the Trust, saying her mix of skills and connection to the region will be a real asset.
“Carmen brings both strong financial expertise and a real commitment to our communities. Her experience working alongside iwi and community trusts fits well with our kaupapa and where we’re heading.”
Carmen says she’s excited to be joining the Board and contributing to the Trust’s mahi.
“I’m really looking forward to supporting the important work of Te Whare and using my experience to help strengthen its financial sustainability into the future.”
Media contact: