Te Rēhia joins the Waikato LAC with extensive community and governance experience, recognised with a Queen’s Service Medal in 2021. Of Waikato-Maniapoto, Ngāti Porou, and Ngāti Whakaue descent, she served for over 22 years as Regional Commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development. Te Rēhia has been involved with numerous community initiatives focused on well-being, education and youth offending.

Shayne holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Waikato. His career spans tertiary education and hapū economic development. Shayne also serves in governance roles with Pregnancy Counselling Services, Volunteering Waikato, and Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa, and is passionate about supporting not-for-profit and community initiatives.

Jan brings significant governance and environmental management experience. She has served as an RMA Commissioner and Local Body Politician for Waikato District Council. Jan has chaired organisations like Te Araroa Trust’s Finance Committee, North Waikato Crime Prevention Trust, and Waikato District Lakes and Freshwater Wetlands. She is a life member of the RSPCA and a Fellow of the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand. Her extensive community service reflects her passion for conservation and public safety.

Lauola works for Foundation North, following 10 years with the Department of Internal Affairs as a Community Advisor. With a background in environmental studies, Lauola is passionate about climate change and community development. Lauola is of Samoan and Palagi descent and lives on the Coromandel Peninsula.

Jeremy is a Partner and CEO of Navigator Limited, a community and cultural development practice. He has senior leadership experience in health and heads the Ngāti Tuwharetoa health provider arm and the formation of its Whānau Ora Alliance. He serves on the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Standards Committee for the New Zealand Law Society and the Sport Bay of Plenty Trust Board. Jeremy is passionate about strengthening community voices in emergency management.

Paula is a highly regarded community leader, with over 30 years of governance experience in the education, environment and local government sectors. She recently stepped down from her six years as Mayor of Hamilton City, Chair of the Metro Sector of LGNZ and Chair of Upper North Island Strategic Alliance. Paula is keen to continue to support the community and use her vast networks to create positive outcomes.

Jocelyn is a former school principal and deputy principal with deep education experience and current role at Tauhei Solar Farm. She has governance experience through local sports committees and strong community connections in Paeroa, Tokoroa and Te Aroha, including trusted relationships with Pacific communities. Jocelyn offers valuable insight into rural and youth-focused needs.

Dr Nicolina is a disabled person with governance experience in Campus Creche Trust, CCS Disability Action, Enabling Good Lives Waikato and the Southern Health and Disability Ethics Committee. She currently works for IHC, and has worked for Whaikaha and People First NZ, bringing lived experience and expertise in inclusion. Based in Matamata, Nicolina is an advocate for disability representation and offers strong regional insight.