Mana Whakatipu: Ngai Tahu leader Mark Solomon on leadership and life

Description

In 1998, just as South Island iwi Ngai Tahu was about to sign its Treaty of Waitangi settlement with the government - justice of sorts after seven generations of seeking redress - a former foundryman stepped into the pivotal role of kaiwhakahaere or chair of Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu, the tribal council of Ngai Tahu, Mark Solomon stood at the head of his iwi at a pivotal moment and can be credited with the astute stewardship of the settlement that has today made Ngai Tahu a major player in the economy and given it long sought-after self determination for the affairs of its own people. Bold, energetic and visionary, for 18 years Solomon forged a courageous and determined course, bringing a uniquely Maori approach to a range of issues. Now, in this direct memoir, Ta Mark reflects on his life, on the people who influenced him, on what it means to lead, and on the future for both Ngai Tahu and Aotearoa New Zealand.

Sir Mark Wiremu Solomon KNZM (Ngai Tahu, Ngati Kuri) served as kaiwhakahaere of Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu, the tribal council of Ngai Tahu, for approximately 18 years, from 1998 until 2016. Founder of the Iwi Chairs Forum, he stepped down as deputy chair of the Canterbury District Health Board in late 2020. Mark Revington is a freelance journalist who has worked for many leading publications including National Business Review, the Listener and Unlimited. His awards include Westpac Financial Journalist of the Year and business magazine editor of the year. He spent six or so years working for Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu and he holds a post doctoral diploma in entrepreneurship from the University of Otago.