Watene Hema

Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairoa

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Chairman

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Watene is a descendant of Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairoa although raised in the heart of Te Mahunua – The McKenzie country. He is currently based in Ōtautahi.

Previously working for New Zealand Māori Golf and Golf New Zealand, Watene spent 7 years in the recreation sector across both local government and regional sport trusts. Watene is a strong advocate for recreation and physical activity and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to access recreational opportunities when and how they want to. Watene is also a current board member of Recreation Aotearoa, a national body that supports the recreation industry across Aotearoa.

Watene has been involved with the Canterbury Men's Centre since 2021 and has a passion for the not-for-profit sector, and in particular, the kaupapa of CMC, which supports so many tāne across Waitaha. 

Watene is currently the Portfolio and Performance Lead at Te Tauraki.