13 Facts About Selwyn Parata

Selwyn Parata has served as chair of the Ngati Porou tribal authority, Te Runanganui o Ngati Porou, since 2014.

Sir Selwyn Parata, born in 1956, grew up deeply rooted in his Ngati Porou heritage.

Selwyn Parata's upbringing was centered around the East Coast of Aotearoa, where he was immersed in the traditions and values of his iwi.

Selwyn Parata began his education locally before attending Ngata College, St Stephen's College, and later studying at Victoria and Waikato Universities.

Sir Selwyn Parata's career is defined by decades of leadership and service to Ngati Porou, Maori culture, and New Zealand.

Beyond these contributions, Selwyn Parata has chaired groups such as Rau Tipu Rau Ora, focusing on crisis response and recovery for events like the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters.

Selwyn Parata's career reflects a deep commitment to strengthening iwi resilience, fostering Maori cultural identity, and advocating for effective partnerships between iwi and government.

Selwyn Parata was born at Waipiro Bay in about 1956, the oldest child of Ron Selwyn Parata and Hiria Reedy.

Selwyn Parata's siblings include the former National Party cabinet minister and diplomat, Hekia Parata.

Selwyn Parata was educated at Ngata Memorial College in Ruatoria and at St Stephen's College near Bombay.

Selwyn Parata married Amohaere Houkamau, and the couple went on to have four children.

In 1987, Selwyn Parata was elected a trustee of Te Runanga o Ngati Porou, and has served on that body and its successor, Te Runanganui o Ngati Porou, ever since, becoming chair of the latter in 2014.

Selwyn Parata has been chair of Te Matatini since 2008, as well as chair of Te Pihopatanga o Aotearoa since 2014.