Building Vibrant Communities: Introducing Our New Trustees

Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones has announced 38 appointments and reappointments to Aotearoa’s 12 community trusts, including four trustees for Trust Waikato.

Trust Waikato is pleased to welcome three new trustees – Stu Husband, Deserae Frisk, and Rangimahora Reddy and to celebrate the return of Robert Dol. Each trustee brings valuable skills and strong connections to the Waikato region, enhancing our ability to support vibrant, resilient communities. We look forward to the knowledge and perspectives they will contribute to our mahi.

“Welcoming new trustees is more than filling seats; it’s about weaving together diverse perspectives to strengthen our communities. At Trust Waikato, our focus is on creating opportunities that empower whaanau and hapori to thrive, ensuring the Waikato region continues to grow with resilience and heart.” –  Janise Eketone, Chair, Trust Waikato

The trustees collectively bring expertise in areas such as education, business, healthcare, community services, marketing, sports, governance, law, environmental protection, grant allocation, and community development.

The 12 community trusts of New Zealand are custodians of more than $3.5 billion in investments and together grant around $100 million into thousands of organisations throughout Aotearoa each year.

As we welcome new trustees, we also express our sincere thanks to three outstanding trustees who have completed their terms at Trust Waikato:

• Vicky McLennan for her unwavering commitment to governance excellence and her passion for ensuring equitable outcomes for all communities. Vicky was appointed as a Trustee in 2017 and has held the position of Chair since 2021 – 2024, previously held the role of Deputy Chair in 2018.
• Chong Feng for his strategic insight and dedication to strengthening relationships across diverse sectors, helping drive impactful mahi. Appointed in 2017, Chong has been a trustee for two terms.

• Michael Noonan was appointed in 2021, for his strong leadership and advocacy for grassroots initiatives, and his strong support for the Coromandel community.

Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of Trust Waikato, guiding our kaupapa and ensuring that our decisions reflect the aspirations of the communities we serve. Through their leadership, insight, and commitment, they have helped advance our vision of vibrant, resilient communities across the Waikato region.

We are deeply grateful for the time, energy, and wisdom they have shared, and for the enduring legacy they leave behind. A legacy of strengthened relationships, impactful mahi, and a foundation for future growth and wellbeing.

Ko too maatou moemoea kia tipu, kia hua ngaa hapori – Trust Waikato’s vision is for vibrant and resilient communities