Helen Potiki brings over 30 years of public service experience, including senior executive and governance roles across multiple government agencies. She currently serves as Associate Deputy Secretary and General Manager, Regulatory and Identity Services at the Department of Internal Affairs. Her leadership has included directing two Royal Commissions of Inquiry—into Covid-19 Lessons Learned and Abuse in State and Faith-Based Care. Helen has chaired governance committees at the Department of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and has designed kaupapa Māori governance frameworks. She is a skilled financial manager, strategist, and incident leader, with deep expertise in HR, organisational development, and risk assurance. A committed member of the Ōtautahi Māori Women’s Welfare League and a long-time contributor to whānau, hapū, and iwi initiatives, Helen’s motivation to serve is rooted in her desire to strengthen whānau wellbeing. Her alignment with Whaea Dame Aroha Reriti-Croft’s vision and her extensive leadership experience make her a valuable addition to the trust board. Helen affiliates to Kāi Tahu, Tapuika and Ngāti Porou.
