Over the past two months we have farewelled two trustees who generously gave their time, energy, and expertise over a combined nine years of service. We also welcomed two new trustees who bring fresh perspectives, strong ties to our region, and a shared commitment to helping Taranaki thrive.

The new trustees were welcomed at the Taranaki Foundation Board meeting on 25 June 2026.

Thank you to Bryce Barnett and Aaron Foley

Bryce Barnett joined the Taranaki Foundation Board six years ago, serving as Chair for the first three. His leadership, bold thinking and infectious passion for intergenerational impact have been woven through a period of real growth for the Foundation. He retired as trustee in May, but he is not going far. Bryce moves into a new role as a Taranaki Foundation Ambassador, and it is hard to imagine a more fitting next chapter for someone who has championed this organisation with such heart.

Aaron Foley joined the Board in late 2023 and brought thoughtful, steady contribution during a period of continued growth. More funds under management, stronger regional connections, and more support flowing back into our community; Aaron has been part of all of it. His connection to the Foundation does not end here either. He will continue giving through his own fund and championing philanthropy across the region.

To both Bryce and Aaron, we thank you.

Welcoming Hannah and Mary

Joining the Taranaki Foundation Board are Hannah Middleton and Mary Bourke. Between them, they bring decades of governance experience, strong ties to communities right across the region and a shared belief in what Taranaki can become.

Mary Bourke

Mary Bourke is a former long-term Mayor of the South Taranaki District, now based in Stratford, where she remains embedded in community life. She chairs the Bishop’s Action Foundation and the Bashford-Nicholls Trust and has contributed to the philanthropy, health, and education sectors at both regional and national level. A skilled facilitator, mediator and coach, Mary brings practical wisdom and grounded leadership to the table.

“I hope to be able to bring my own brand of common sense to add value at a strategic level. I am looking forward to working with a great team of people at the Foundation and learning more about the amazing things that people do to make Taranaki a great place to live.”

Hannah Middleton

Hannah Middleton was born and raised on the Kelly family dairy farm in South Taranaki and after years away gaining wider experience, returned home drawn by her connection to the region and Taranaki Maunga. She now lives in Waverley with her husband and three young children. Hannah brings a strong background in regional development, youth, and sport, with previous roles including CEO of Whanganui and Partners and Youth Development Lead at Sport Taranaki, alongside extensive governance experience across employment, economic development and netball.

“I am looking forward to listening to our community, raising the bar and ensuring that our region, and in particular the smaller districts that make up our region, have equitable and equal opportunities to thrive. I am passionate about using my strengths and connections to continue building Taranaki’s prosperity, especially for the next generation.”

Looking ahead

With Hannah and Mary joining the Board, the Foundation has two new trustees with strong lived connections to communities across Taranaki, particularly in South Taranaki. The Foundation exists to support every part of Taranaki, and having additional voices around the table that reflect that lived reality only strengthens the work ahead.

“Change at governance level is always a moment worth marking. It is a chance to reflect on what has been built and to feel genuinely optimistic about what comes next. Hannah and Mary bring exactly the kind of energy and connection we need, adding further strength to an already strong board, and I know the Taranaki Foundation is in excellent hands as we look ahead to this next chapter.” – Phil Hinton, Chair, Taranaki Foundation.

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The new trustees will join current board members Phil Hinton (Chair), Lindsay Thompson (Deputy Chair), Dan Radcliffe, Marilyn Davies, Ainsley Luscombe, Floyd Wicksteed, Maree Schumacher, and Jake Mills (IOD Emerging Director).

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