KO WAI AU?

Georgie Thompson is the Tumu Whakarae (Chief Executive) of Ruapōtaka Marae, a vibrant kaupapa Māori institution based in Glen Innes, Tāmaki Makaurau. Of Waikato descent, Georgie brings deep cultural grounding, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to whānau, hāpori, and kaupapa Māori advancement.

Under her leadership, Ruapōtaka Marae has become a beacon of resilience and innovation, upholding mana motuhake while delivering a wide range of whānau-centred services. With more than 4 decades of experience in community development, Georgie has championed initiatives that weave together cultural identity, social wellbeing, and economic empowerment – aligned with the values of Whānau Ora. Her approach to leadership is collaborative and future-focused, ensuring that whānau voices shape the marae’s direction. She has led significant milestones, including marae redevelopment planning, rangatahi-led projects, and culturally responsive services that uplift the potential of Māori and other communities in Tāmaki.

A passionate advocate for systems change and mana-enhancing service delivery, Georgie continues to drive Ruapōtaka Marae’s vision of being a safe, inclusive, and culturally rich space where whānau can thrive – now and for generations to come.

"Mā te tokomaha ka kā te ahi – By the many, the fires are kept burning."