Christmas comes early for Hokitika man
Christmas has come early for Hokitika-based Wharerimu Iraia, who has been selected as a recipient of the Institute of Directors (IoD) Canterbury Branch First Steps in Governance Award 2023.
Iraia is the Chief Executive of West REAP (Westland Rural Education Activities Programme Incorporated Society), which provides educational pathways to local communities across the Westland and Grey districts. Prior to his current role, the former commercial lawyer spent close to 15 years living in Dubai, overseeing the development and execution of large property and renewable energy projects.
On returning home to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2018, it was time for a career change and Iraia’s focus has been socially led, with a strong emphasis on fostering the needs of the community.
“My dedication to community improvement extends to my role as a member of the Hokitika Primary School Board of Trustees, which has allowed me to actively contribute to the educational development of young students in our town,” Iraia said.
Contributing to building a strong community takes many forms for Iraia, including addressing core needs such as food resilience, which led him to set up a foodbank.
“I am deeply committed to addressing issues of food insecurity in our community and to ensure that no one in our town goes hungry. At the food bank, our organisation coordinated food drives, organised distribution efforts and worked tirelessly to secure donations to support those in need,” he said.
Creating opportunities to build a strong sense of connection to cultural identity is another area that motivates him, and Iraia has also established a Mataawaka organisation, which focuses on connecting individuals with their Māori heritage, raising awareness through activities that deepen an understanding and appreciation of te reo and te ao Māori culture.
Selection panel chair and IoD Distinguished Fellow, Rex Williams, said the panel were impressed by Wharerimu’s dedication and commitment to social purpose, one that is underpinned by a strategic, legal and commercial lens.
“In today’s governance environment, it is important that every individual on a board has a strong sense of purpose, regardless of the industry or sector.
“We believe Wharerimu’s strong foundation of being socially and community driven aligns with the core values associated with strong governance and leadership. This holds true now more than ever, especially at a time when stakeholder values impact decisions made by boards. Wharerimu illustrates the passion and drive, as well as the strategic thinking and purpose needed around the board table today, and we look forward to seeing how this opportunity assists him on his governance path,” Williams said.
As a recipient of the First Steps in Governance Award, Iraia will receive $1,000 towards an IoD course, complimentary IoD membership and event attendance over a 12-month period, and the opportunity to be mentored by an experienced director.
“I have an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around me and I am motivated by people, and seeing them succeed. The role of director excites me as the effects of good governance and successful strategies can bring about immense success,” Iraia said of receiving the award.
Iraia will attend an evening function in Christchurch on 19 February to receive his award.
Established in 2014, First Steps in Governance is awarded to young professionals and helps them to gain first-hand experience on a not-for-profit board. Eligible recipients must not have held any substantial board roles, but can have experience on local sports, schools or community boards or trusts.