WAI Wānaka Strengthens its Governance with New Trustees and Board Observer
Local non-profit organisation, WAI Wānaka is thrilled to welcome Richard Burdon and
Stephen Stuart as our newest members to our Board of Trustees, each bringing a wealth of experience, insight and dedication to our mission. Their diverse backgrounds will help guide our strategic direction and strengthen our governance.
We are also excited to introduce Chris Bowie, who is stepping into our Board Observer role – a unique and valuable role that enhances board engagement without formal voting responsibilities.
“We are very fortunate to have such a high calibre of expertise and knowledge in our rohe, let alone in our Board of Trustees. We are pleased to welcome Richard, Stephen and Chris into their new roles. They’ve each made an impactful contribution already,” says Cat Dillon, WAI Wānaka CEO.
Richard Burdon – WAI Wānaka Trustee with a focus on Rural.
A third-generation steward of his family’s high-country farm in Hāwea (Glen Dene Station), Richard Burdon needs little introduction in the Upper Clutha. An agritourism operator and passionate conservationist, Richard plays an active role in protecting the water quality, biodiversity and ecosystems of Lake Hāwea. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable land management, environmental stewardship, community wellbeing and the promotion of responsible hunting and agritourism practices.
Richard is heavily involved in the community and wears a few hats. He is a Guardian of Lake Hāwea, the founding Chair of the Lake Hāwea Stakeholders Group, Chair of
Aotearoa’s Hunters for Conservation; and Director of Landward Management - a company specialising in project management, biosecurity, ecological management and farm business consulting. WAI is honoured to have Richard Burdon join us as a Trustee, with a focus on Rural.
Stephen Stuart – WAI Wānaka Trustee with a focus on Urban.
Having recently relocated from Wellington to Wānaka, Stephen Stuart brings wide-ranging senior executive leadership and governance experience across Government, primary industries and the biosecurity sector. A common thread throughout his career is his strategic leadership, using scientific tools, data, models and technology to deliver operational and business outcomes. Not to mention the importance of building strong relationships and partnerships. Stephen is deeply committed to environmental
sustainability and champions best practise governance.
Stephen’s most recent role was Chief Executive of an animal disease and pest
management agency within the primary sector. During this time, he acted as an Observer on the Mycoplasma Bovis Governance Board, as well as the Board of Zero Invasive Predators and supported the Department of Conservation to shape the future of Predator Free 2050. In addition, Stephen has for many years been a Member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors and is eager to contribute his expertise and skills to our local community, and WAI Wānaka is thrilled to have him join their Board of Trustees.
Chris Bowie – WAI Wānaka Board Observer.
With a Master of Science in Geography and a background in social and environmental
research, Chris Bowie is WAI Wānaka’s new Board Observer. An infrastructure asset
management advisor and strategist, Chris helps local authorities across Aotearoa with long-term planning, business case development and evidence-based decision-making.
While his work spans across both urban and rural communities, Chris is especially
interested in how infrastructure can support thriving communities and sustainable
development. He enjoys collaborating with councils and partners on future-focused
planning.
Based in Lake Hāwea with his young family, Chris is delighted to support WAI’s mission to empower communities and protect water for future generations.
“WAI Wānaka’s collaborative approach to tackling environmental challenges really
resonates with me and I’m excited at the opportunity to contribute to the protection of our lakes and catchments, while learning from a passionate and experienced governance team,” says Chris.
Board Observer: a unique and valuable role
The purpose of the Observer role is to develop governance skills. Our previous Board
Observer, Emily Walker, has stayed on and became a Trustee earlier this year. Cat notes “The Board Observer is a unique and very special role. It’s the perfect opportunity to dip your toe in the water, step into the governance space, observe, and garner those skills.
