Activating whenua through governance, trust‑building, and long‑term collective vision

Roma Balzer (Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Apakura, Te Arawa) is a trustee and governance strategist supporting whenua and whānau in the Waikato. Stepping into governance with little experience, she helped transform a dormant trust into an active, purpose-driven collective. Her kōrero builds on earlier episodes by showing how whenua is sustained through developing relationships, long-term visions, and shared responsibility to ensure whenua Māori remains a living asset for future generations.

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini

My strength is not that of one but of many

---------------------------------------------

Disclaimer

Te Karanga o Te Whenua is led by researchers based at the Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research Group, now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – Maiangi Taiao.

The stories shared in Te Karanga o Te Whenua are personal accounts that were recorded with permission and are presented to reflect the lived experiences, perspectives, and voices of the research partners. These narratives are shared in good faith to inform, reflect, and inspire listeners, and are not intended for advisory purposes. The views expressed are those of the individuals featured and do not necessarily represent the views of the funders or hosting organisations.