Our Board
Rena Kohere - Chairperson
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.
My family and I live at Waerenga-o-kuri, where my husband manages a sheep and beef station.
I’m proud to be the Chair of Weka Guardians, a newly forming community catchment group focused on the health of the Hangaroa River and its tributaries and promoting sustainable land use.
Professionally, I lead the Land Management team at Gisborne District Council, where we work alongside rural communities to promote sustainable land use and help translate national and regional regulations into practical, farm-scale actions. My work is grounded in collaboration, education, and advocacy.
I bring experience from a range of environmental initiatives, including river restoration projects, farm environment planning, and nature-based solutions for flood management. I’m also actively involved with the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust, East Coast Ballance Farm Environment Awards, Farming Women Tairāwhiti, and Rural Women New Zealand.
Sandy Buttler - 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.
My family and I live at Waerenga-o-kuri, where my husband manages a sheep and beef station.
I’m proud to be the Chair of Weka Guardians, a newly forming community catchment group focused on the health of the Hangaroa River and its tributaries and promoting sustainable land use.
Professionally, I lead the Land Management team at Gisborne District Council, where we work alongside rural communities to promote sustainable land use and help translate national and regional regulations into practical, farm-scale actions. My work is grounded in collaboration, education, and advocacy.
I bring experience from a range of environmental initiatives, including river restoration projects, farm environment planning, and nature-based solutions for flood management. I’m also actively involved with the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust, East Coast Ballance Farm Environment Awards, Farming Women Tairāwhiti, and Rural Women New Zealand.
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.
I’m a member of the Rere Catchment group, and am passionate about supporting communities to define and deliver their vision of what a thriving catchment community looks like. Helping the land, water, and community to thrive by enabling them to collectively attract resources and deploy them for a better future on the land.
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.
I’m a proud Gisborne local, a townie, raised close to the stunning Waikanae Beach.
Over the past 15 years, I’ve contributed to a number of inspiring trusts and committees, including the Whinray Eco Trust and the Gisborne Mountain Bike Club. I currently serve as secretary for both the Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust and the Makorori Environmental Protection Society — roles that reflect my deep interest in environmental restoration and active recreation.
Professionally, I bring over 20 years of experience in environmental management, spanning resource planning, land management, ecological restoration, and forestry. I now work at Gisborne District Council in an implementation-focused role, helping coordinate cross-council mahi that delivers positive outcomes for freshwater and biodiversity. My work is grounded in relationships — encouraging people to look beyond their own projects and find synergies with others.
I’m also part of a wider GDC team exploring how our region can transition toward sustainable land management, especially on our most vulnerable landscapes. My focus is on practical, on-the-ground action rather than policy development.
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.
Professionally, I have had several senior finance roles within Tairawhiti businesses. My work often involves farming, the environment and sustainability. My experience with Te Taiao includes water testing, biodiversity monitoring, and measuring emissions, as well as developing and implementing emissions reduction plans. I’m passionate about building community resilience and looking after our land. I look forward to contributing to the board’s vision and the ongoing mahi to enhance the health and wellbeing of our catchments.
