History
Te Runanga o Ngati Apa was established in 1989 to represent that interests of the whanau and hapu of Nga Wairiki and Rangitikei who are generally referred to as the iwi of Ngati Apa.
In 1991 the Runanga became an incorporated society thus allowing the establishment of bank accounts and the commencement of contractual arrangements with organisations such as the Crown Forestry Rental Trust for the commencement of Ngati Apa claims processes under the Treaty of Waitangi.
Since its establishment many people have been a part of the organisation. To get an impression of who has been involved in the past, below is a list of past and present Chairpeople;
- Arikikanara (Uncle Bill) Maremare
- Mihi Rurawhe
- Reuben Ashford
- Joe Huwyler
- Chris Shenton
- Adrian Rurawhe
Currently, Te Runanga o Ngati Apa is the vehicle for the delivery of health and social services and the progression of Ngati Apa claims. Also, the Runanga is supporting the provision of Marae Based Studies (MBS), a tertiary education programme delivered through Te Wananga o Raukawa. As the representative body for Ngati Apa, the Runanga is recognised by Te Ohu Kaimoana as the appropriate body to receive Ngati Apa entitlements from fisheries settlements.
Another important benefit of the Runanga is that it provides a forum for hapu representatives to discuss and get support for a range of issues related to whanau and hapu development. As a consequence, the Runanga has entered into contracts for the delivery of support services for the establishment of robust and sustainable authorities to represent the interests of Nga Wairiki and Rangitikei hapu. At this stage, the Runanga is intervening to initiate this development. In the future it is anticipated that the tables will turn and the hapu authorities will effectively drive the Runanga.
In a more general yet extremely important role, the Runanga provides a point of contact for people needing to contact the Iwi or needing advice on how to contact hapu and Marae.
As a legal entity, Te Runanga o Ngati Apa Society Incorporated enjoys a strong reputation for honest financial management. Runanga accounts are audited annually.