The University of Otago has appointed Tuari Potiki as its new director of Maori development.
Mr Potiki comes to the university from a senior management role at the Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand and as part of his role he will lead Maori development activities at the university and develop and maintain the institution's Treaty of Waitangi-based relationships with iwi and Maori providers.
University vice-chancellor Prof Harlene Hayne said Mr Potiki brought an impressive mix of skills, knowledge and experience to the position.
"He is very well placed to enhance Otago's ongoing commitment to contributing to Maori development at university, regional, national and international levels," Prof Hayne said.
Mr Potiki, who is of Ngai Tahu, Ngati Mamoe and Waitaha descent, said he was excited about taking up his new position.
"This is a dream role that combines my long-term passion for Maori development and wellbeing with the fresh challenge of providing leadership in this area at a large organisation that possesses such huge mana."
He will take up his new role on July 10.