Our Trustees
Our Board is made up a diverse group of locals who are passionate about our organisation and the wider community it serves.
Chair - Michelle Crook
My husband Grant and I decided to see out the first Covid lockdown at our property at Ōpoutere, and during that period, we decided to make the move to come here permanently. In October 2020, we reestablished Grant's engineering business here, and I set about relocating my marketing and strategic consultancy here too. Prior to moving, I had been heavily involved in the not for profit sector in the Bay of Plenty, and so I sought out an organisation that was aligned with my values when relocated to Whangamatā. I was delighted to meet Sarah and learn more about the Community Services Trust and so I joined the the Trust in November 2021. Outside of work, I like to run, read, explore New Zealand's great walks, and travel.
Charmaine Morrissey
I have been a rate payer in Whangamata since 1981 and a resident since 2002. I joined the board in 2017. I have always been intrigued with the uniqueness of Whangamatā, as a small community, but one that caters for a huge holiday population.
Suella Care
Joining the board in 2020 aligned with my personal ethos of being part of a strong cohesive and healthy community. I believe that we are at the heart of our community in the delivery of services and the passionate support of its people.
My love of life extends to my family, and grandbabies who are such an important part of me.
As an early childhood educator and court support person for many years, I have a passion for youth, strengthening of families in their many forms and empathy for the struggles many face today.
Gina Kennings
Ko Moehau, ko Maungakiekie ōku maunga
Ko Waihou, ko Waitamata ōku awa
Ko Tikapa, ko Waitamata ōku moana
Ko Ngati Whatua Orakei, ko Ngati Kiriwera ōku hapu
Ko Ngati Whatua, ko Ngati Tamatera ōku iwi
Ko Gina Kennings tōku ingoa
No Whangamatā ahau
Kia ora my name is Gina Kennings (Ngati Whatua Orakei, Ngati Tamatera) and I have been a trustee on the Whangamata Community Services Board since 2021. I have lived in Whangamatā for 11 years with my husband and two children. I have been an educator for 24 years and taught in one of the local schools, Ōpoutere School for 7 years. I am the director of Tōku Ara, a 10 week residential localised curriculum for Whangamatā Area School Year 10 students.
I am passionate about achieving positive outcomes for the health and wellbeing of Rangatahi Māori and whanau.
Jo Wolfenden
Kia ora my name is Jo Wolfenden. I joined the Board in 2024. I have lived and worked in Whangamatā for the past 30 years. Firstly, practice nursing at the local Medical Centre and then as owner operator of Ear Health Coromandel.
I am now retired from nursing, but not from life! Our community’s wellbeing is paramount in such financially strained times, and we are lucky to have the Eastern Coromandel Community Services Trust to help provide a range of services to support the lucky people who can call Whangamatā and surrounding communities home.
I’m happy to be on the Board for such an important resource in our community. Ngā mihi
Kaye Taylor
My family, friends and community rate as the most important part of life.
I believe in the old adage charity begins at home and if you have any spare time after supporting your kids, grandies, elderly Whanau then it is very rewarding to help if possible in your community, thus I joined the Board in 2024.
I am a Chartered Accountant and have worked the majority of my 45 year career in the Health and Disability Sector, helping to establish various Social Purpose Organisations in both business management and directorship roles.
We have turned our wonderful holiday destination of 20 years, Whangamata, into our permanent address since 2020 and absolutely enjoy the huge diversity this community has to offer.
Raewyn Vause
Our family of three moved to Whangamata in 1990 where my husband took up a teaching position. We all ended up at the area school, my daughter as a student, and myself as administrator, where I stayed for the next 25 years.
Since retiring I joined the team at Comfort Kai, a volunteer group providing a two course meal once a week. The venue is provided by the Anglican Church and funded by the Community Services Trust and some very generous donations.
I joined the board in 2025 and I’m looking forward to learning more about the Trust and how it serves our community.
