The annual general meeting of Te Hui Amorangi ki Te Upoko o te Ika was held over two days from May 23-24, 2025, at St Michael’s Church in Palmerston North, drawing around 60 attendees from across the rohe. The hui opened on Friday evening with karakia at 5pm, followed by early morning Eucharist at 7am Saturday, and a full day of reporting, reflection and discussion from 9am onwards.
First-Ever Bishop’s Certificates of Recognition
A highlight of this year’s gathering was the presentation of the inaugural Bishop’s Certificates of Recognition, awarded by Bishop Wai Quayle to 13–15 individuals who have offered exceptional support to the Amorangi. It was a first for the Amorangi and a heartfelt acknowledgement of those working faithfully behind the scenes.
New Kaimahi
Gendy Tomson from Tikanga Pākehā is currently supporting students as a shared employee between the Diocese of Wellington and the Amorangi for the new Te Takawai Diploma. Initially with the Amorangi for a sabbatical, Gendy has since returned in a paid support role and is contributing significantly to education and formation.
Jodie Karipa, the new Office Administrator who, despite only being in the role for a few months, successfully helped organise this year’s AGM.
Governance and General Business
The business of the AGM included the election of the full delegation of 25 representatives to Te Rūnanganui, with a caveat allowing for a reduction to 15 if needed. A number of new board members replaced those whose terms ended.
The 2024 financial year accounts were shared in draft form; the final audited reports are expected in June. The Aotearoa Trust presented on the Amorangi’s investments, and Te Waka Huia o Te Amorangi gave its governance update.
Ministry, Mission and Formation Updates
Reports were received from each of the Kāhui Tāne, Kāhui Wāhine, and Kāhui Rangatahi, with updates from the Missioners and Education Team highlighting the growing momentum in ministry formation. Deacons and Kaikarakia were ordained in November 2024, and two more are currently in the pipeline. A coordinated rollout of Deacon, Priest and Kaikarakia training is now underway, supported by the education team, which includes two missioners and student support staff.
It was also noted that Vincent Nuku a returning priest from Tikanga Pākehā, has been re-licensed in the Amorangi by Bishop Wai.
New Hāhi-Iwi Governance Model and Looking Ahead
Support from across the rohe was evident throughout the hui. Rev. Jay Ruka from Taranaki Cathedral, now dual-licensed with both Tikanga Pākehā and Tikanga Māori, was also present. A proposal was approved in principle for a new collaborative arrangement with the Diocese of Taranaki over the governance of St Mary’s in New Plymouth. Four seats would be Hāhi (2 x Upoko and 2 x Diocese of Taranaki) and the remaining four would be iwi seats as part of the parishes ongoing reconciliation with local iwi and hapū.
Looking ahead, the Kāhui Rangatahi Winter Camp is set for July in Aotea/Kurahaupō (Whanganui), bringing together 30 rangatahi from across the Amorangi.
A Spirit of Whanaungatanga
As always, it was the moments of connection between the formalities that made the AGM memorable — the karakia, the waiata, the shared meals, and the kōrero in between. The Amorangi gives thanks for Bardia Matiu, General Manager of Te Pīhopatanga o Aotearoa for attending. The farewell speeches at the close sent everyone home smiling.
The Amorangi gives thanks for all who attended, supported, and served in the preparations and proceedings of this year’s AGM. May the work ahead be guided by aroha, wairua, and shared vision.