Tararua REAP Board seeks new blood
Tararua REAP (Rural Education Activities Programme) has been a part of the Tararua community for over 36 years. During this time the team has been busy supporting our community, however the Tararua REAP Governance Board has been the consistent directing support that ensures quantity and quality of service provision and effective longterm strategies that have enabled this Not-for-Profit to successfully continue to make a positive difference in the Tararua community. Tararua REAP is unique in its role as a provider, facilitator, and broker of lifelong learning opportunities for the communities of the Tararua District. Tararua REAP’s programmes, resources and services are based on filling gaps in education provision through innovation and the use of a comprehensive needs’ analysis process.
Stephen Paewai is one of the Board members that has been, and continues to be, part of this long journey. Stephen celebrated 20 years of service and was given lifelong membership when he stepped down from his position as Chairman in 2020. Wendy Lansdown, the new Board Chair, has been supported in her role by deputy chair Liz Gunson who has been on the Tararua REAP Board since 2008. Liz will resign on the appointment of a new Board member. “I have enjoyed my time on the Board immensely. There have been good times and difficult times, happy times and sad but never in my time on the Board has REAP been as exciting and vibrant as it is today.” explains Liz. “Tararua REAP is in the strongest position it has ever been, I believe now is a good time to exit and let someone else enjoy the good vibe. New blood brings new ideas and vitality that is essential for the future.”
That sentiment is echoed by Board member, Sue Berry, who is leaving the district and has also resigned from the Tararua REAP Board. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the Board. It felt good to be part of a service that genuinely wants help people. This support is delivered in so many ways, from employment support to budget advice. The potential to wrap services around individuals or families is invaluable for those in need. It has felt good to be part of a service that has people at the heart of all that they do. I am sorry to say goodbye to the Tararua community and REAP.” states Sue.
It hasn’t been a regular occurrence for Tararua REAP to have two Board members resign at the same time and thankfully Liz is happy to remain in her position until a replacement is found. One of the risks for a governance Board is the Manager as they ensure the operational side of the service aligns with policy, legislation, and service strategy. Tararua REAP’s General Manager, Claire Chapman was described by Liz Gunson as “a fantastic Manager, who just gets on with stuff and leads by example. She is totally respected by her staff, Board and by the wider community and has worked tirelessly to create an awesome atmosphere within Tararua REAP.” In the last three years, under Claire’s management, the contracted service delivery has increased from an annual budget of $650K to $890K. For 2021-2022 this is expected to hit the million-dollar mark. Additional funding brings additional contracts and opportunities to support our community – “he tangata he tangata he tangata – it’s all about the people.”
Having a strong governance Board is vital for the ongoing success of the Tararua REAP. So, if governance is an interest or speciality, please visit www.tararuareap.co.nz . If your ethos and principles align with the Tararua REAP ’s mission and values statement and you have a few hours spare every two months, then this could be a great platform to share your knowledge and expertise
Tararua REAP is in the strongest position it has ever been, I believe now is a good time to exit and let someone else enjoy the good vibe. New blood brings new ideas and vitality that is essential for the future.
For an information pack and application form contact Tararua REAP reception, phone 06 374 6565 or email office@tararuareap.co.nz