Ko Tararua te maunga,
Ko Manawatū te awa,
Ko Ngāti Raukawa te iwi
Ko Leilani Maraku tōku ingoa

Leilani Maraku is a distinguished leader and innovator, greatly inspired and driven by her whānau. In her role as Director of Innovations at Te Rau Ora, Leilani exemplifies a remarkable work ethic and an adept ability to manage complex challenges.

Career Highlights: Leilani’s career is marked by her leadership roles in significant Maori mental health and addiction services. As the Pou Whakahaere for Te Kete Pounamu and the Manukura (Chief Executive) of Mana o te Tangata Trust, she has successfully led initiatives to support and enhance the wellbeing of the community.

Her previous work includes significant contributions in the role of Te Ūpoko for Ngā Oranga o Te Rae. Here, she was instrumental in supporting both Māori and non-Māori mental health and addiction providers, providing them with technical support, in-service training, and amplifying tangata whaiora voices.

Leilani’s commitment to community health extends to her innovative work in developing whānau addiction peer support services across the Manawatū region, including impactful programs within the Manawatū prison system.

Advocacy and Vision: A nationally recognised advocate for lived experiences in mental health and addiction, Leilani brings invaluable grassroots experience in service delivery, administration, and leadership. She is a vocal proponent for the rights and voices of Tangata whaiora and their whānau, advocating for systemic change across all sectors. Her vision for Te Rau Ora is to create a strong foundation for our people to learn, lead, and dream, furthering the organisation’s mission to empower and support the community.