Mātai Smith

Mātai served on Te Tai Rāwhiti Pae Motuhake for three years prior to his appointment to the Board in 2019. He has extensive experience working in broadcasting as an award-winning presenter and producer and graced our television screens for more than two decades. Mātai graduated from the first intake of Te Panekiretanga o Te Reo Māori and exhibits an unquestionable commitment to the revitalisation of the Māori language. 

As the current Station Manager for iwi radio station Tūranga FM, he continues to work tirelessly to ensure the Māori language continues to grow and flourish in Gisborne and Te Tai Rāwhiti. Mātai led the genesis and development of both the Rongowhakaata and Ngāi Tāmanuhiri rautaki reo. He currently sits on the boards of a whānau trust, Te Tira Whakaari and is acting Deputy Chairman for Te Whakaruruhau o Ngā Reo Irirangi Māori.

Declaration of Interests:

• Metcon Mauri
• Larf Productions
• Tūranga FM
• Te Tira Whakaari
• Ngā Uri o Te Kooti Arikirangi
• Te Whakaruruhau o Ngā Reo Irirangi Māori