Tevita Funaki is the newly appointment Chairperson of the Pacific Business Trust in New Zealand.

New Zealand's Minister for Pacific Peoples, Hon. Aupito Su’a William Sio in a statement last week said Funaki brings extensive governance, business and community experience to the role and has served as a board member since May 2018.

A graduate of the University of Otago with a BCom, Tevita has been the Chief Executive Officer of The Fono since July 2010. 

Prior to this, he held leadership roles in health and education as well as experience running his own consultancy. 

Tevita is driven by a dream to see more Pacific people experience greater levels of wellbeing and this includes economic prosperity.

"All of this can contribute to improving the wellness of our people and communities."

He is looking forward to the transformation that the Trust will be leading.

“We need to continue being courageous and ensure that we maintain our strong values as we align our work to the needs of our community. We are not only working for those who are in business now, but setting up for future business owners and leaders.”

Members

Outgoing Chair was Fa’amatuainu Tino Pereira.

Tevita said Fa’amatuainu has been a staunch advocate for Pacific businesses, his leadership and wisdom guided the Trust through significant times of change including the sale of our Otahuhu premises.

Meanwhile, joining the board are Samuelu Sefuiva and Leaupepe Rachel Karalus for three-years.

Sam has over 30 years experience in public policy, strategic and business advice, cultural and economic development and executive leadership. While, Leaupepe is currently Chief Executive of K’aute Pasifika Trust.

The Pacific Business Trust board members are now: Tevita Funaki, Rachel Taumoepeau- Afeaki, Maria Fuata, Ron Viviani, Samuelu (Sam) Sefuiva and Leaupepe Rachel Karalus.