My mission is to enhance the participation of Māori, iwi, and hapū in the construction and infrastructure sectors by supporting our people to achieve mana motuhake and tino rangatiratanga across education, workforce development, design, ownership, operation, and construction of infrastructure. I am dedicated to transforming industry practices through inclusive and empowering approaches that honour our values and aspirations.


Did you know…

I’m based in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, while she is deeply connected to Ngāi Tūhoe through her wakapapa.





Teresa brings a unique skill set in research and consulting experience in education, Te Ao Māori, sustainability, infrastructure, and engineering sectors. Teresa holds governance roles on several boards and advisory groups, including Hanga Aro Rau, Te Waihanga (New Zealand Infrastructure Commission) – Māori Advisory Rōpū, and Diversity Agenda – Education Rōpū. Through these roles, she brings a boarder understanding and context of the infrastructure industry, while bringing a deep understating of the market trends, insights from the public sector and government.

Holding a Bachelors of Engineering Majoring in Environmental Engineering, and a Masters of Engineering, she is committed to challenging traditional project systems and processes, ensuring they align with tikanga and te ao Māori. Teresa has successfully facilitated the integration of these cultural values into projects and their management systems, reflecting her mātāpono and addressing the unique needs of Māori clients.

With extensive practical onsite experience combined with strategic planning, advisory, and research skills, Teresa effectively balances technical and practical considerations to deliver feasible and successful project outcomes. Her passion for environmental and social justice drives her advocacy within the construction and infrastructure sectors. 

Her passion for promoting and supporting environmental and social justice in the construction and infrastructure sectors, as well as her keen interest in incorporating Te Ao Māori, reinforces her commitment to culturally grounded and socially responsible development.