The Public Service Commissioner has today announced that Secretary for Māori Development and Chief Executive of Te Puni Kōkiri, Dave Samuels, will retire from his role next year.
Mr Samuels was appointed to the role in 2019.
“Mr Samuels has led Te Puni Kōkiri with distinction, drawing on a 26-year career in the New Zealand Army and more than two decades in senior public service roles, including at the Department of Corrections, Ministry for Primary Industries, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade,” said Commissioner Sir Brian Roche.
Sir Brian acknowledged Mr Samuels’ contribution to Māori development and to the public service.
“Mr Samuels has been a consistent advocate for supporting Māori aspirations and achievement,” he said.
“I thank him for his leadership and his commitment to public service. His contribution has made a lasting impact and will be valued for years to come.”
Mr Samuels said he was grateful for the opportunities he has had to serve New Zealand over the past 48 years.
“On retirement I will begin a new chapter centred on whānau and community while remaining committed to contributing to Aotearoa New Zealand if called upon,” said Mr Samuels.
Mr Samuels final day of service will be 26 June 2026. The Commission will shortly commence recruitment for a new Secretary for Māori Development.
