Trustees act in an unpaid, voluntary role and provide governance, strategic direction, and oversight of the operational programme of work, to ensure the Trust delivers on its purpose and achieves meaningful restoration outcomes.

This is an opportunity to shape the next chapter of MRT’s work, and help achieve our ambitions to scale our impact on the restoration of Motutapu.

About Us:

The Motutapu Restoration Trust (MRT) is a charitable trust working to restore the wellbeing of Motutapu’s native ecosystems, as well as to inspire people to participate in conservation and care for and connect with this special island.

Founded in 1994, MRT works alongside the Department of Conservation and mana whenua Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki. The Trust has facilitated the planting of over half a million trees, creating habitat of over 100 hectares of regenerating native forest on pest-free Motutapu. 

The restoration programme continues with propagation of native plants in the on-island nursery, planting, and weed control in the regenerating forest. The programme of work is achieved almost entirely through a significant volunteer programme which also assists with translocations, track maintenance and maintenance of historic structures. Our mahi supports biodiversity, habitat and ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience.

Two Trustee vacancies are available following the retirement of two board members, creating an opportunity to shape the next chapter of MRT’s work, and help achieve our ambitions to scale our impact on the restoration of Motutapu.

About This Role:

This is a voluntary unpaid role. Trustees provide governance, strategic direction, and oversight of the operational programme of work, to ensure the Trust delivers on its purpose and achieves meaningful restoration outcomes.

The expected commitment includes:

• Attending six Trust meetings each year, along with associated preparation including reading of reports. Meetings are typically held in the evening from 7-9.30pm, with three online and three in person in central Auckland.
• Participating in or leading sub-committees to progress particular strategic objectives or governance responsibilities such as negotiation of agreements or development of strategic plans.
• Visiting Motutapu at least four times per year to ensure that you are across the Trust’s operational activity on the island. Due to transport availability, visits typically require a full day from ~9am-4pm and can be made during weekends or weekdays.

‍Key responsibilities include:

• Contributing to the governance and strategic direction of the Trust

• Oversight of operational and financial performance and risk management

• Engaging constructively in board deliberations and committee work as required

• Acting as an ambassador for the Trust and its work.

What we’re looking for:
We are looking for Trustees who are interested in making an impact in conservation in Tīkapa Moana/the Hauraki Gulf, and in helping lead MRT to be an organisation at the forefront of best practice in community conservation. 

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with experience and interest in the following areas:

• Ecology and conservation
• Working alongside kaupapa Māori-lead initiatives
• Fundraising and sponsorship
• Marketing, communications, PR and social media
• Strategy and planning

Networks across conservation, te ao Māori or business as well as prior board governance experience are an advantage, but not essential. We welcome applications from all individuals with an interest in our kaupapa, and particularly encourage applications from tāngata whenua and younger members of the community. 

We expect Trustees to actively engage in group decision-making and help develop an inclusive sense of shared purpose. In addition, we are seeking Trustees who:

• Have a collaborative approach and are relationship oriented
• Are creative thinkers and problem solvers
• Listen well and engage constructively in a collegial setting

How to Apply:

To apply, please email an Expression of Interest to MRT Chair Nathalie Morris on nathalie@motutapu.org.nz by Sunday 22 November 2026. This should include:

• Your name and contact details
• A short summary of your background
• Why you are interested in becoming a Trustee
• The skills, knowledge, or experience you would bring to the Trust
• A governance or other CV (if available)

If you have any questions or would like to have a conversation prior to applying, please email MRT Chair Nathalie Morris on nathalie@motutapu.org.nz