Established under the Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua Act 1988, we proudly serve as the central representative body for ngā uri o Ngāti Whātua. Our kaupapa is to advocate for our iwi, champion social and cultural initiatives, and carefully manage the assets within our rohe to ensure a thriving future for our people.

Core principles guide the Rūnanga: kōtahitanga (unity), mātauranga ki ngā tikanga me ngā kawenata hei tangata whenua (cultural knowledge and responsibilities as tangata whenua), whanaketanga whaiaro me te whanaketanga ā-rōpū (personal and collective development), tautoko whānau (supporting whānau), and he whakahaeretanga pai (effective governance). The Rūnanga envisions a resilient, thriving iwi grounded in aroha.

The Rūnanga is guided by 11 elected kaitiaki from five takiwā, ensuring diverse iwi voices shape its decisions. With oversight of 33 marae, it strengthens connections to tūrangawaewae and collaborates with iwi, hapū, and government agencies to ensure the well-being of its people. Through its leadership, the Rūnanga safeguards Ngāti Whātua’s heritage, ensuring the iwi’s identity, aspirations, and well-being are preserved and nurtured for future generations.