Darren Rewi is one of Central Otago’s most senior kaumātua. His work has taken him from kindergartens and schools to corporate boardrooms and government offices. He is the founder of Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust, the owner of Engage Safety and an exemplar of manaakitanga. Darren believes that Māori values and wisdom can extend throughout our communities, even in places we may not expect. Businesses can do as people do.

A gifted storyteller and man of great mana, Darren is dedicated to his community. His work ensures local Māori have a voice within the community, and that voice is heard. His great gift is an ability to identify that unifying point of connection and act as the conduit between organisations and Kai Tahu.

Relatable and approachable, Darren draws on experience in the corporate, governance and not-for-profit fields as well as his position as kaumātua, business owner, and family man to encourage and lead.