Dr Tuihana Pook
Dr Pook has been involved with education for many years with a focus on Māori, te reo Māori, and supporting her local community. She is the Tumuaki (Principal) of Te Kura Mana Māori o Whangaparaoa and is committed to creating opportunities for students’ future career pathways.
Dr Pook was awarded a QSM in 2012 for services to Māori education and the community.
Dr Pook was previously appointed by the Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment Minister on 26 July 2013 as a member of Te Mana Whakahaere o Awanuiārangi. Dr Pook now serves on Te Toi Apārangi o Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, an advisory roopu who provide advice to the Council and to the Chief Executive regarding mātauranga Māori, te reo, tikanga, kawa and any other matters that concern Awanuiārangi.
In 2025, Dr Pook was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Māori Development by Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, in recognition of her leadership and lifetime of dedicated service to her iwi, to Māori, to education, and to the Māori language.
Advisor to Council: Dr Tuihana Pook
Qualifications: QSM, D.MD (Hon. Causa), DipT
Iwi: Te Whānau-ā-Apanui