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Puamiria Parata-Goodall has been formally appointed to Selwyn District Council as Mana Whenua Representative for Te Taumutu Rūnanga strengthening the partnership between Council and Te Taumutu Rūnanga and ensuring mana whenua perspectives continue to help shape decisions affecting the district.

The appointment was confirmed at the Council meeting on 16 September following a nomination from Te Taumutu Rūnanga. As Mana Whenua Representative, Puamiria (Ngāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Ngāti Kahungunu) will have speaking rights at Council meetings, as well as speaking and voting rights on the Audit and Risk and Finance and Performance Committees

While she will have speaking and voting rights at committees, which are recommending bodies, Puamiria will not have voting rights on Council decisions.

Selwyn Mayor Lydia Gliddon said Puamiria brings significant governance, cultural and leadership experience, along with a deep connection to the district and its history.

"Strong relationships with mana whenua benefit everyone in Selwyn. They help us make better decisions, strengthen environmental stewardship, support sustainable economic development and foster communities that are connected to their place and history.

"As one of New Zealand's fastest-growing districts, Selwyn faces significant opportunities and challenges. Having local mana whenua perspectives involved early in decision making helps ensure we take a long-term view and make choices that will serve future generations well."

Puamiria is a nationally recognised kapa haka and arts champion and has authored cultural narratives that have helped incorporate mana whenua history and cultural markers into the design of public spaces throughout Christchurch and Selwyn.

She will already be a familiar face to many at Selwyn District Council, having previously served as Pou Kaiāwhā, working alongside elected members and staff to strengthen relationships and understanding of mana whenua perspectives, aspirations and responsibilities.

Puamiria said she was pleased to take up the role on behalf of Te Taumutu Rūnanga.

"Te Taumutu Rūnanga values the opportunity to contribute to decisions that affect our rohe and future generations. We share many aspirations for Selwyn with Council, including healthy communities, a strong economy and a thriving te taiao/natural environment.

"Working together allows us to bring different perspectives and knowledge to the table and ultimately make better decisions for everyone who calls this district home."

Puamiria was welcomed through a mihi whakatau attended by whānau, Councillors and staff before making her formal declaration and taking her place at the Council table.

The appointment supports the longstanding relationship between Selwyn District Council and Te Taumutu Rūnanga and helps give effect to Council's commitment to providing opportunities for Māori to contribute to local authority decision-making processes under the Local Government Act.

“This creates greater efficiency by enabling issues to be discussed earlier, helping Council make better-informed decisions that deliver better outcomes for our communities,” says Mayor Gliddon.

Puamiria succeeds former Mana Whenua Representative Megen McKay, who held the role during the previous Council term and played an important part in bringing mana whenua perspectives to Council discussions.

Last modified: 16 Sep 2026 12:09pm