09-07-2025
Tai Tokerau Leader Pita Tipene Announces Bid For Northland Regional Council - Te Raki Māori Constituency
A Tai Tokerau leader, Pita Tipene, has today confirmed his intention to stand as a candidate for the Te Raki Māori Ward in the upcoming Northland Regional Council elections.
Known for his longstanding commitment to whānau, hapū and iwi development across Tai Tokerau, Pita Tipene says the decision to stand reflects a continued desire to bring strategic, Māori-led solutions for environmental, economic and regional issues.
Pita has worked within the Northland Regional Council as part of Te Ruarangi - Māori and Council Working party for the past twelve years, most of that as co-chair, so is well acquainted with the workings of Council.
'It's time for bold, committed and unapologetic Māori leadership at the Council table — to protect and enhance our environment, support our Tai Tokerau communities, and hold our institutions accountable,' says Pita.
'Standing for the Te Raki Māori Constituency is a continuation of the work I've dedicated my life to — empowering and building resilient communities, protecting our environment, and ensuring Māori voices are heard where strategic decisions are made.'
'Te Raki Māori Ward offers an opportunity to bring our values and ways of working into the council chamber. It's about partnership, kaitiakitanga, and working together to solve the challenges facing our rohe, from water quality and climate change to public transport and economic opportunity.'
This year has already been momentous for Pita having recently received the King's Service Order for services to Māori, as well as being awarded the Tai Tokerau Māori Business Leader Award in recognition of his work across multiple sectors and serving the people and indigenous communities globally.
Pita's candidacy is expected to resonate across Tai Tokerau, where he has served in key governance and leadership roles including Chair of the Waitangi National Trust, Chair of Te Pouahi o te Tai Tokerau (Māori Housing), Chair of the Motatau Marae and co-Chair of the Indigenous Peoples Economic and Trade Co-operation Arrangement, amongst other key governance roles while serving his people at local, regional, national and global levels.
Nominations for the Northland Regional Council elections are open and close on 1st August 2025. Voting packs will be delivered from Tuesday 9th September, with votes closing Saturday 11th October, 12pm. Official results will be announced on Friday 17th October 2025.
