Author and Te Reo Māori champion, Kiwa Hammond (Wairoa Hopupu) is the chairperson for the Wairoa District Council Māori Standing Committee. Their purpose is to consider the role of Māori in protecting and enhancing the future wellbeing of Wairoa District. Considers governance issues relating to Council obligations to tangata whenua. Investigates and reports to the Council on any issues that the Māori Standing Committee considers necessary that may have an implication for tangata whenua.