The Tumuaki is responsible for chairing executive meetings, and also holds the deciding vote where required. They also hold a seat on LUSA, and are generally the person that is invited to any board meetings. However, there are a lot of hui! Because of this, the Tumuaki may also delegate certain responsibilities to the Vice (or Co-) Tumuaki, or to another member of the executive.

This role is flexible, and it is up to the elected executive each year to decide whether this role is expressed as a Vice Tumuaki (ie a second-in-command to the Tumuaki) OR as a Co-Tumuaki (which is a more collaborative style). The option exists in order to allow the tauira elected to choose the leadership style that they feel best fits them.

This role is typically called the “Secretary” in other governance groups, and they are responsible for taking minutes at meetings, sending out the agenda and managing the Te Awhioraki email account.

Otherwise known as a “Treasurer”. This role is ideal for accounting students in particular, but that’s not a requirement! Typically responsible for collecting receipts, and doing regular shops to keep Te Whare Whakakotahi well stocked for tauira.

There are three kaimahi positions available on the executive each year, and each tauira typically chooses a portfolio that they are interested in holding for the year: Pou Whakawhenua - Cultural Anchor and Advisor The Pou Whakawhenua ensures all kaupapa and mahi of Te Awhioraki remain culturally grounded and aligned with our purpose. This role identifies and advocates for the cultural needs of tauira Māori, while fostering a safe and inclusive space where identity can be explored and celebrated. Through the promotion of tikanga and te reo Māori, and collaboration with key contacts, the Pou Whakawhenua strengthens the cultural integrity of the association and supports its ongoing development as a meaningful space for Māori students. Āpiha Whakawhanaukataka - Engagement and Wellbeing Officer The Āpiha Whakawhanaukataka focuses on building strong connections within Te Awhioraki, supporting the wellbeing of tauira, and increasing engagement across all kaupapa. This role nurtures tuakana-teina relationships, encourages participation, and creates opportunities for students to feel a genuine sense of belonging. Through events, initiatives, and consistent connection with tauira, the Āpiha ensures our community remains active, supported, and inclusive. Āpiha Whakapā - Social Media and Branding Officer The Āpiha Whakapā is the voice of Te Awhioraki, shaping how the association is seen and experienced both online and in person. This role manages communications, branding, and digital engagement to ensure kaupapa are promoted clearly and consistently. By creating content, sharing stories, and connecting with tauira across platforms, the Āpiha Whakapā strengthens the visibility, reach, and identity of Te Awhioraki. Portfolio’s are flexible though—if you have a particular passion, we wanna hear about it! Kaimahi are also not responsible for the portfolio all by themselves. For example, if you are interested in making sure tauira Maori have events to socialise at together, you are the ideas person and might organise things like dates and details, but you can also ask the rest of the executive to support your events.