In previous newsletters we’ve described how the WWP was initially established, funded and operated. We’ve also talked about the results of our 2025 independent review, and further work to explore a series of future operating and funding options for the project.
The key outcomes of that work included:
A need to further refine our operating model to better show how our work leads to real world changes and impacts
A need to broaden our funding and operating model to ensure financial sustainability
A need to formalise our legal structure so that we can work with a wider range of funders and stakeholders to secure our future.
We have now established the Wellbeing Waikato Charitable Trust, to continue the work of the WWP.
The Trust deed sets out our purposes as:
to promote and benefit the general health and wellbeing of the Waikato community, through research, knowledge sharing, storytelling and advocacy which aims to uncover the root causes of Waikato region’s wellbeing challenges;
the relief of poverty and its causes, through the undertaking and publishing of research and reports on wellbeing, including but not limited to youth wellbeing, health, housing, access to food, energy security and social equity;
the advancement of social and community welfare;
the advancement of education and learning;
to provide and facilitate community workshops, events, resources and forums for public dialogue in relation to wellbeing, for the benefit of the Waikato community, and to enhance social cohesion;
the support of other charitable organisations which further the above purposes;
any other purposes within New Zealand which are charitable according to the law of New Zealand.
The Deed allows for up to seven Trustees, with 3 currently appointed while we get established and confirm our priorities. All three trustees were previous members of the WWP Kaitiaki Advisory Board from 2021 to 2025, and the 2025 Transition Leadership Group (TLG) which led the identification, evaluation and decisions on the new operating model.
The establishment Trustees for the new entity are:
Delwyn Abraham – previously the co-chair of the WWP Kaitiaki Advisory Board and the Chair of the WWP TLG. Delwyn was appointed to the WWP’s governance group by Waikato Tainui on behalf of Waikato Māori | iwi as part of the project’s recognition of the important role of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in our wellbeing future. Delwyn is also currently the Head of Treaty Partnerships for the Crown Response Unit for the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry. Delwyn is of Waikato, Raukawa , Ngaati Maniapoto, Ngaati Patupoo, Ngaa Puhi and Ngaati Whaatua descent.
Don Scarlet – is the Strategic Advisor for Key Relationships at Mercury. He is also chair of the National Wetlands Trust, co-chair of the Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust and a trustee of Waikato River Care and Predator Free Hauraki Coromandel.
Mike Rolton – was previously the co-chair of the WWP Kaitiaki Advisory Board with Delwyn Abraham. Mike is the General Manager of Vinnies Hamilton and has significant national and international experience in forestry, seafood and general business. Mike has strong whakapapa links to Ngati Haua.
The Trust will formally commence operations in May 2026. There will be more information available shortly on our updated website and contact details.
