Blackie Tohiariki
Blackie is from Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, Te Arawa and Te Whānau a Apanui. He has a demonstrated history of over 40 years in education, cultural alignment programmes, supporting community projects and small business. He is experienced in networking within not-for-profit and community organisations. He is skilled in business planning, business analysis, and coaching. A strong entrepreneurial and professional background recently focused on education via Te Whare Aio, health and wealth creation.
He is a Director at Tohitu Indigenous Solutions Ltd, a Restorative Justice Facilitator and a Practitioner of Mātauranga Māori (Auckland/Hawkes Bay).
Rory Norton
In 2022, Rory completed his Master of Architecture (professionals) at AUT’s School of Future Environments - Huri te Ao.
Awarded First Class Honors, Rory’s thesis was centred around a co-design development with the prominent Hawke whānau of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. Rory’s design was chosen specifically by the whānau as it embodied their vision for a vertical papakāinga, which reflected their kaupapa and acts as a foundation for current and future generations of iwi.
Rory understands that housing can be a turbulent and ever-changing industry - requiring a unique and personal approach to every project independently.
Along with his appreciation for visually impactful design, Rory also holds a deep understanding that well-designed housing has the potential to repair communities and solidify cultural identities.
His notable skills include:
Refined and methodical design processes.
An attentive and sensitive approach to in-person client consultations.
An understanding and ability to incorporate Te Ao Māori principles and concepts within an architectural setting.
Ability to effectively synthesize client desires with intrinsic architectural knowledge.
Strong written and communication skills.
Extensive digital software skills, i.e. Revit, CAD and Adobe products such as Photoshop and InDesign.