_{13th July, 2026}

The Canterbury Branch of the Institute of Directors are inviting applications for its Aspiring Māori Director Award.  This award is open to both members and non-members in the early stages of their governance career.  

We invite applicants that:

• whakapapa Māori
• are in the early stages of their governance career i.e. with fewer than five years’ governance experience in an independent and/or non-executive role.
• reside in Waitaha Canterbury and/or the rohe of the following rūnanga:
• Arowhenua
• Kaikōura
• Koukourarata
• Makaawhio 
• Ngāi Tūāhuriri
• Ngāti Waewae
• Ōnuku
• Rāpaki
• Taumutu
• Waihao
• Wairewa

Benefits include

• $2000 towards IoD professional development
• Complimentary IoD membership for 12 months 
• Complimentary attendance at all Canterbury Branch events for 12 months 
• 12 months mentoring with an experienced director
• 12 month internship on the board of Presbyterian Support Upper South Island

Applicants cannot be

• a previous recipient of an Emerging Director Award 
• a current mentee participating in IoD’s Mentoring for Diversity programme, Tautua Pasifika mentoring programme and/or an appointed Future Director currently observing on a Host Board. 

To apply, you must

• Demonstrate a commitment to developing your governance skills
• Have skills and experience that would be useful to a board
• Have at least three years’ experience in a senior management role; or as a professional business advisor; or from growing your own business; or a small company board.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of sound governance
• Have not held a significant governance role to date.  For example, roles as a school trustee or officer in a local sports, school or community organisation or club do not exclude you from applying
• Disclose any association with the Aspiring Māori Director Award sponsor, an Emerging Director Award sponsor and/or any local branch sponsor

Cover Letter:

Please ensure the following questions are addressed in your cover letter:

• What motivates you to aspire to pursue a governance journey?
• What value do you believe you will bring to a board?
• What steps have you taken towards your journey in governance?

Application
Applications are open until 5:00pm Friday 7 August 2026

  
Thanks to Presbyterian Support Upper South Island, sponsor of our 2026 Aspiring Māori Director Award. 
  
  
  

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