Our communities are leading the way in restoring and caring for the taiao. These projects show the strength, creativity, and dedication of local groups across Tairāwhiti. LFTL is proud to support kaupapa that uplift people, whenua, and future generations.
Our whāinga is to enable learning and action projects at a community level that improve taiao across Tairāwhiti.
We do this by community based funding
Encouraging groups to share project aims and outcomes based on their community’s aspirations
Providing a knowledge platform for groups to share their mahi and learn about other projects
Supporting groups with coordination and administration overheads
Telling the stories reflect our love for te taiao, the mahi of our groups, and inspiring others to join the journey
Our Board
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![A woman with curly dark hair smiling, wearing a dark denim shirt and a cream-colored necklace.]()
Rena Kohere
CHAIRPERSON
Introduction coming soon
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![An elderly man with short light hair wearing a red hoodie with 'Kathmandu' logo standing against a transparent background.]()
Peter Reeves
DIRECTOR
Introduction coming soon
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![A woman with blonde hair smiling at the camera, wearing a black and white gingham long-sleeve shirt and green pants.]()
Nicki Davies
DIRECTOR
It’s a privilege to serve on the Leading from the Land Board. I’m inspired by the projects ability to empower and support catchment groups — helping communities grow, connect, and care for the wellbeing of their place.
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Jane Rau
DIRECTOR
I live in Okitu where my family and I own a small farm. I’m proud to be part of Wainui Catchment Group, where our focus is on improving the water and environment for future generations.
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![A woman with curly red hair smiling, wearing a black jacket and black shirt, standing against a plain background.]()
Kerry Worsnop
DIRECTOR
I bring 20 years of land management experience through sheep and beef farming, environmental consulting, catchment project management and Federated Farmers Gisborne / Wairoa region.
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![A woman with glasses, wearing a white collared shirt under a dark green sweater, smiling slightly, with her hands behind her back.]()
Sandy Butler
DIRECTOR
I’m passionate about supporting landowners and communities to achieve positive environmental outcomes and am excited to contribute to the board’s vision and mahi.
Our Team
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Tania Swift
PROJECT MANAGER
Kia ora, I’m Tania Swift, Project Manager for Leading from the Land – Tairāwhiti. I bring over 18 years’ experience in environmental management, funding, and community development — including senior roles with the Ministry for the Environment, Gisborne District Council, and the Department of Conservation.
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Hamish Johnson
COMMUNICATIONS LEAD
Working at a community level to help te taiao regenerate and thrive is hugely fulfilling mahi and I feel privileged to have this opportunity with Leading from the Land.
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Ami Hokianga
SECRETARY SUPPORT
Kia ora, ko Ami Hokianga tōku ingoa.
He uri ahau no Rongowhakaata me Ngāti Porou.My experience with Te Taiao is guided by kaitiaki and a deep appreciation for our Taiao. I am committed to ensuring our whenua is thriving for our tamariki and future generations who will inherit it.
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Laura Watson
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMUNITY COORDINATOR
Joining the Leading from the Land team as an Environmental Community Co-ordinator allows me to combine my love for the environment with my commitment to education, sustainability, and community collaboration—helping to build more resilient, nature-connected landscapes for generations to come.
