New Waitangi Tribunal Members Nick Wells and Rick Witana Appointed

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has confirmed two new appointments to the Waitangi Tribunal, Nick Wells and Rick Witana.

I would like to welcome Mr Wells and Mr Witana to their new roles and, at the same time, thank Dr Paul Hamer and Basil Morrison for their service as they step down as members, Mr Potaka says.

Dr Hamer and Mr Morrison will continue serving on their existing panels until those inquiries conclude.

Mr Wells and Mr Witana bring a breadth of experience across governance, law, Iwi leadership, public policy and Crown–Māori relationships that will further support the Tribunal’s work.

Mr Wells joins as a member of the Waitangi Tribunal for a three-year term, replacing Dr Hamer, who has served for six years.

Mr Witana joins as a member of the Waitangi Tribunal for a three-year term, replacing Mr Morrison, who has completed 18 years of service.

Notes to editors Nick Wells Nick Wells is an experienced governance and legal practitioner with extensive expertise in corporate law, investment, and Iwi governance. He currently holds senior governance roles including Chair of Ngāpuhi Asset Holding Company and Kaikohe Berries, and Co-Chair of UNICEF Aotearoa.

Rick Witana Rick Witana is an experienced Māori governance leader with a strong background in Iwi representation, public policy, and Crown–Māori engagement. He previously served as Chair of Te Rūnanga Nui o Te Aupōuri and has held senior Māori relations and public sector roles.