New Zealand Geographic Board Members Reappointed and Appointed

Land Information Minister David Parker today announced the reappointment and appointment of members to the New Zealand Geographic Board Ngâ Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa in terms of the New Zealand Geographic Board Act 1946.

“The Geographic Board’s role in assigning and altering official place names is important to New Zealand's infrastructure, social interaction, communication, emergency services, and economy,” David Parker said.

“Geographic names help New Zealanders connect with and understand our heritage,” said David Parker. “The Geographic Board plays a significant role in helping to define New Zealand’s national identity.”

The following members have been reappointed to the Board for three years from 1 February 2007:

• Sylvia Jean ALLAN of Wellington
• Dr Sir Tipene O’REGAN of Christchurch
• Dr James Wharehuia MILROY of Hamilton.

The following are new members who have been appointed to the Board for three years from 1 February 2007:

• David Jeffrey BARNES of Dunedin
• Kay Lenore BOOTH of Christchurch
• Apirana Tuahae MAHUIKA of Ruatoria
• Professor Michael Matthew ROCHE of Palmerston North.

Dr Sir Tipene O’Regan is reappointed on the nomination of Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu. Mr David Barnes is appointed on the nomination of the Federated Mountain Clubs of New Zealand. Professor Roche is appointed on the nomination of the New Zealand Geographical Society.

The eighth member of the Board is the Surveyor-General from Land Information New Zealand, Dr Don Grant of Wellington. Don is the ex-officio chair of the Board.