Representative for Tūāhuriri

Nicole Manawatu-Brennan

Nicole is a born and raised Tuahiwi Pā kid. She has a lifelong connection to Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri and is deeply committed to the aspirations of whānau, hapū and iwi. Her leadership is grounded in the values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and rangatiratanga, with a strong belief that leadership is about leaving things better for those who come after us. 

Nicole brings more than 25 years experience in both public and private sector with extensive executive and governance experience across iwi, commercial and community organisations. She is recognised for her strategic thinking, collaborative leadership and ability to navigate complex issues while remaining focused on long-term outcomes. Nicole will graduate with her Executive Master of Business Administration this year, combining practical experience with contemporary governance and leadership practice.

Nicole believes the future of Ngāi Tahu will be shaped by the strength of its papatipu rūnanga. Strong hapū create strong whānau, and strong whānau create a strong iwi. She is passionate about building the capability, confidence and connectedness of our people, creating opportunities for leadership to emerge across generations, and ensuring governance empowers our hapū to lead rather than directing them.