Māori Development Minister, Tama Potaka, has confirmed the appointment of Fletcher Tabuteau as Chair of the Te Puia New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) Board.
Mr Tabuteau (pictured) was a teacher at Rotorua Boys’ High School, a lecturer in Economics, and head of the Business School at Waiariki Institute of Technology. He now runs Hoporona Consulting and serves as Director of Capital Government Relations and Communications.
“I want to congratulate Fletcher on his appointment to the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute Board,” says Mr Potaka.
“His experience in governance, management, and business will be an asset to the Board and the important work they do to encourage and promote ahurea and toi Māori.”
Located in Rotorua, NZMACI is home to Te Wānanga Whakairo Rākau (National Wood Carving School), Te Takapū o Rotowhio (National Stone and Bone Carving School), and Te Rito o Rotowhio (National Weaving School).
With a 60-year legacy, NZMACI has a strong history of producing highly skilled crafts people, said the Minister.
“At its core, NZMACI fosters the protection and transfer of mātauranga Māori. It is an integral part of the Rotorua economy and the wider Māori economy, contributing to the sustainable development of scenic and tourist attractions in the Rotorua district and across the motu,” he said.
