Te Puna Ora o Mataatua Ltd (Mataatua), the social, mental health and Whānau Ora services subsidiary of Te Puna Ora Matua (the Group), has appointed Lee Colquhoun, pictured, (Ngāpuhi) as its new manawhakahaere | chief executive.

Colquhoun will also serve as manawhakahaere of the group's housing subsidiary, Te Puna Ora o te Kāinga Kōpu.

His appointment reflects the successful execution of the group's leadership succession strategy and its commitment to developing leadership from within.

Colquhoun was previously chief operating officer and assumed his new responsibilities on July 1.

Mataatua board chair Kataraina Monika (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Porou, Tūwharetoa), said the appointment provided continuity and aligned strongly with the kaupapa of the group.

“Lee has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a deep commitment to our kaupapa, and a strong understanding of the communities we serve through his executive leadership over the past five years,” she said.

“He has played a pivotal role in advancing our strategic priorities, strengthening service delivery, and supporting the wellbeing of whānau across our rohe.

“Lee brings integrity, extensive executive experience gained in both Aotearoa and Australia, and a deep understanding of our organisation.

“I am confident he will lead with purpose and vision as we continue to work towards whānau thriving through self-determination.

“This appointment reflects both the depth of leadership capability within our organisation and the strength of our succession planning.

“It pairs proven operational leadership with strategic oversight across the wider Group.”

Te Puna Ora o Mataatua Ltd, Te Puna Ora o te Kāinga Kōpu Ltd, Te Puna Ora Ira Āwhiorangi (Te Whare o Toitū AI), and Te Puna Ora o Rongoā Māori (Te Whare o Rehua) are subsidiaries of the group.

Group manawhakahaere Chris Tooley said the appointment was an example of the group's commitment to developing leadership from within.

“Our purpose remains unchanged. Toi Ora Motuhake connects us to the history and whakapapa of Mataatua, while Te Poutokomanawa o Te Puna Ora provides the framework for improving outcomes through a whānau ora approach to health, wellbeing and self-determination,” Tooley said.

Group board chair Fiona Wiremu said the group model enabled each subsidiary to remain focused on its role while contributing to a shared vision for whānau wellbeing.

“The group approach enables us to grow strong leaders from within while ensuring each subsidiary remains focused on delivering for the communities it serves.

“It reflects our commitment to building sustainable, values-driven organisations that can continue to thrive for generations to come.”