A young woman with a passion to serve her community has been selected to take part in this year’s Tuia mayoral mentoring programme in Hastings.
The Tuia Rangatahi programme, an initiative of Local Government New Zealand, pairs young Māori leaders with mayors across Aotearoa for a year of mentoring, civic engagement and leadership development.
This year’s appointee, Rahera Johnson, was raised in Clive and says her commitment to service was shaped early in life.
“I was raised in Clive by my grandfather, growing up as his little shadow,” she said.
“Through him, I learned what genuine service to community truly looks like. He was a man driven by the wellbeing of our people — a leader who carried humility, strength, and aroha in everything he did.
“His example shaped the foundations of who I am today and ignited in me a deep passion to serve.
“That passion has been with me since I was young. It continues to guide my commitment to strengthening whānau, building meaningful relationships, and contributing to spaces where our voices deserve to be heard, valued, and uplifted.
“I am honoured and deeply grateful to be selected as the Tuia candidate for 2026 with Hastings District Council. I look forward to the growth, insights, and experiences this kaupapa will bring – the many hua I will gather for my kete – so that I can continue to serve our people with integrity, courage, and aroha.”
Hastings Mayor, Wendy Schollum said she was looking forward to mentoring Rahera throughout the year.
“The Tuia programme gives young Māori leaders the opportunity to step inside local government and understand how decisions that affect our communities are made,” Mayor Schollum said.
“Strong local government depends on capable, informed leaders. Alongside initiatives such as our Hastings Youth Council, programmes like Tuia help build a pipeline of young people who understand the responsibilities and trade-offs involved in governance.
“That understanding strengthens the quality of leadership in our district over time and ensures the next generation is ready to shape Hastings’ future. I’m really looking forward to working alongside Rahera this year, supporting her leadership journey and learning from her perspectives as well.”
Running for a year, the Tuia programme includes monthly mentoring between the Mayor and her Tuia, both through informal catch-ups and participation in formal civic occasions.
Rahera will also undertake a 100-hour community contribution project and attend five national wānanga held in different parts of the country. These wānanga provide opportunities to build networks, gain support and be exposed to a diverse range of leaders and communities.
The programme aims to strengthen Māori representation in local government and encourage greater civic understanding and participation among rangatahi.
