Janice Kuka

Chairperson – Ngāi Te Rangi / Ngāti Ranginui

Janice Kuka is of Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Ranginui descent and has been the managing director of Ngā Mataapuna Oranga since 2010. She spent her early years being educated at the local convent school in Te Puna then went on to Otumoetai College.

Janice has a professional background in Social Work and Community Development. She gained her formal qualifications in later years through Massey University whilst working as a Medical Social Worker at Tauranga Hospital. During this period, Janice was seconded to set up a Kaupapa Māori Service Unit. This unit provided Māori specific services within the hospital as well as follow up services in the community.

The development of hapū and community health has always been a strong interest for Janice and over the years has actively remained committed to this transformation process.

Janice is a Board Member of a number of community and Hauora Trusts, both locally and regionally.