At our AGM late last year, we formally welcomed three new board members– Maree Schumacher, Floyd Wicksteed and Lindsay Thomson. Between them, they have an enormous amount of talent and experience and we’re very much looking forward to their input and guidance.

Our trustees play an important role in raising awareness of Taranaki Foundation and inspiring generosity across our region. Their expertise supports the growth of our endowment fund, increasing grant-making capacity and ensuring long-term community impact.

Phil Hinton, Foundation Chair, says, “It is great to welcome Maree, Floyd, and Lindsay to our team of voluntary trustees. Each brings unique expertise, background, and skillsets that will be incredibly beneficial. We look forward to working with them to sustain our momentum and continue driving philanthropy forward for our community.”

 

Meet Our New Trustees

Maree Schumacher

Maree co-founded Stars Travel, which has been operating for over 38 years. Her passion for community has driven her involvement in various charitable organisations, including serving as Treasurer and Chair of the New Plymouth Community Foodbank. She is currently a board member for Alzheimer’s Taranaki and has also contributed to Look Good Feel Better, Hospice, and St Joseph’s Church. Maree is deeply committed to making a positive impact in her community and her extensive experience reflects her dedication to both business and philanthropy. 

 

Floyd Wicksteed

Joining the Taranaki Foundation is an honour for Floyd. He looks forward to contributing to its success and sharing the impact it can have on building a lasting legacy within the community. As a Director at Schurr and Ireland Chartered Accountants, Floyd brings over a decade of experience in the accounting industry, working across a diverse range of clients, businesses, and sectors.

 

Lindsay Thomson

Lindsay looks forward to contributing to the Taranaki Foundation board, building on the significant achievements of previous trustees and working to expand the Foundation’s future footprint for greater outcomes in Taranaki and its communities. Professionally, Lindsay is an investment expert at The HTL Group Limited, offering personal financial planning and investment advice. Outside of work, he was chairman of the Taranaki Rugby Union Board from 2011 to 2020, and has been involved with numerous other boards over the years.

 

We are grateful for the time, expertise, and passion that all of our trustees bring.  Not only do they help steer the waka but also advocate for Taranaki –our people, our place, our economy, and our future.

Together, we are building a stronger Taranaki and fostering a spirit of philanthropy that will benefit generations to come.

 

The new Trustees will join current board members Phil Hinton (Chair), Bryce Barnett, Dan Radcliffe, Marilyn Davies, Ainsley Luscombe, Selwyn Metcalfe and Aaron Foley.

For more information about our Trustees and their backgrounds, visit our Trustee page