Media Release Info

Tātou Collective has appointed six distinguished leaders to its inaugural Whānau Ora Investment Board, a strategic advisory panel established to guide commissioning decisions for Pacific families and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

The Investment Board plays a pivotal role in shaping investment priorities that reflect the aspirations and needs of Pacific families. These appointments mark a significant milestone in the evolution of Whānau Ora, reinforcing the commitment to data-driven, locally led and culturally responsive solutions.

The newly appointed members bring a wealth of experience, regional representation and deep cultural insights.

Tofilau Nina Kirifi-Alai QSM (Auckland) is a senior Pacific leader in tertiary education and community development. With a Master of Indigenous Studies and a BA/LLB, she offers extensive stakeholder networks and a strong track record in supporting families and community mobilisation.

Professor Tracie Mafile’o (Palmerston North) is a leading academic in social work and Pacific-led practice. Her expertise in evaluation, data use and Indigenous methodologies, combined with mature governance experience, brings a vital NZ-born and Tongan perspective to the Board.

Pauline-Jean Luyten MNZM (Timaru) is a lawyer, notary public and experienced governor. Her governance roles span the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, NZ Rugby Pasifika Advisory Group, inaugural NZ Pasifika Rugby Council and Aoraki Legal where she serves as Co-Director. She anchors South Island representation with strong regulatory and legal expertise.

Pulotu Tupe Solomon-Tanoa’i (Wellington) is a former diplomat and current philanthropic executive. With a background in international trade, public policy and legal research funding, she brings a systems-thinking approach and deep governance experience.

Tua’ipulotu William Cuthers (Hamilton/Waikato) is an Inspector with NZ Police, with over 20 years of service. His heritage is Cook Islands, Samoan, Māori and Pākehā, alongside his data-driven approach and community engagement, offers grounded insight into high-deprivation contexts.

Fila Fuamatu (South Auckland) is a community innovator with strong local connections. Her background in public health, sport and education, combined with lived experience in Samoa, positions her as a practical problem-solver and codesigner of whānau-led initiatives.

These appointments follow a rigorous Expression of Interest process designed to ensure transparency, diversity and alignment with Whānau Ora principles. The Board will provide strategic advice on investment planning, ensuring commissioning decisions are informed by whānau voice, evidence and community priorities.

Tātou Collective Chair, Leopino Foliaki, who also chairs the Investment Board, said: “We are honoured to welcome these exceptional leaders. Their collective wisdom, lived experience and commitment to Pacific advancement will ensure our investments are both impactful and transformative for families.”

The Board will meet regularly to guide the development of the Tātou Investment Plan and future commissioning activities. Members are appointed for a three-year term, with the possibility of renewal.