With $179m under a reset commissioning model, one of Whānau Ora’s new commissioning chairs is promising stronger governance, clearer data, and measurable impact.
WATCH: Rangitāmiro Investment Board Dr Mataroria Lyndon speaks with Mike McRoberts.
What’s at stake? $179m in annual Whānau Ora funding, including about $67m in the upper North Island, now sits under a tighter commissioning and data framework.
Background: The Government replaced previous commissioning agencies from July 1, 2025; introduced independent investment boards; and responded to funding controversy and long-standing concerns about proof of impact.
Main players: Dr Mataroria Lyndon and the Rangitāmiro Investment Board, Minister Tama Potaka, Te Puni Kōkiri chief executive Dave Samuels.
Whānau Ora entered 2026 with something to prove.
After an independent review into alleged misuse of public funds, a live judicial challenge to the overhaul of its commissioning model, and renewed political debate over whether it delivers value for money, the kaupapa now sits under a more formal
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Key points
What’s at stake? $179m in annual Whānau Ora funding, including about $67m in the upper North Island, now sits under a tighter commissioning and data framework.
Background: The Government replaced previous commissioning agencies from July 1, 2025; introduced independent investment boards; and responded to funding controversy and long-standing concerns about proof of impact.
Main players: Dr Mataroria Lyndon and the Rangitāmiro Investment Board, Minister Tama Potaka, Te Puni Kōkiri chief executive Dave Samuels.
