Henare Te Karu serves as Kaumātua for St John of God Hauora Trust, a role he has held since 2023. He brings extensive experience across health and social services, grounded in bicultural practice and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of tangata whenua.
His career spans mental health social work, child and family services, and cultural leadership across Canterbury DHB and Wairarapa, including a decade as Kaiārahi Matua (Cultural Manager). He holds a Bicultural Social Work degree from Te Wananga o Aotearoa and bicultural supervision qualifications.