Rāpaki
Donald Couch Deputy Kaiwhakahaere
Donald was first elected as the Rāpaki representative to Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu in 1998. He grew up in Rāpaki. After attending school in Lyttelton and Christchurch, Donald graduated with BA and MA degrees from Canterbury University College, University of New Zealand. An extended OE in Canada for 30 years, mostly in Polytechnic management, eventually led to his return and permanent residence again in Rapaki.
Prior to his election Donald had actively participated in Rāpaki resource management issues – and still does. With a lifelong interest in kaimoana and customary fishing Donald is Tangata Tiaki for Whakaraupō. He is a Rāpaki Trustee and a Trustee of the MR875 (Rāpaki) Section 1C (Taukahara) Trust and has been a trustee of the Ngāi Tahu Ancillary Claims Trust for more than 10 years.
Appointment as the Ngāi Tahu representative to the Lincoln University Council led in 2004 to election as Pro-Chancellor of Lincoln University.
Donald was elected Deputy Kaiwhakahaere in July 2004 and enjoys balancing his time and mahi between whānau, hapū and iwi responsibilities.
[Since the end of the financial year Wally Stone has been appointed representative of Rāpaki.]