TeRa Morris

TeRa Morris–Ngāpaki is of Te Ātiawa, Ngāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, and Waitaha descent, with strong connections to Te Tauihu o te Waka-a-Māui and Te Waipounamu. He is a Senior Portfolio Lead in the Hauora Māori Service Directorate for Te Waipounamu, bringing senior leadership experience across hauora Māori, whānau ora commissioning, Crown agencies, education, and community health.

He has more than 32 years’ experience, including roles with Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu, the Tertiary Education Commission, and Second Chance Education, and has recently transitioned from Te Aka Whai Ora to Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand.

His work is grounded in strengthening Māori health outcomes, enabling whānau-led solutions, and advancing culturally responsive service improvement across Te Waipounamu.

TeRa also serves as the Māori representative on the Board of Hauora Matua ki Te Tai o Aorere, contributing governance insight and deep sector knowledge in commissioning, hauora Māori, and community-focused service development.

Alongside his professional commitments, TeRa is the youngest of seven, a father of three adult tamariki, and a proud grandfather to his mokopuna.