Oranga Tamariki Executive and Leadership Team

Wira Gardiner, the Chief Executive Officer at Oranga Tamariki, directs the overarching strategy and operational framework for safeguarding and supporting children in New Zealand. Gardiner's leadership ensures the effective delivery of critical services, including family support, caregiving placements, and youth justice initiatives, all designed to protect children whose wellbeing is at significant risk. This executive role involves aligning departmental efforts with the organization's core mission of creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive. Gardiner oversees the integration of various programs to address complex needs, driving the ministry's commitment to child welfare across New Zealand. The focus remains on enhancing service provision and ensuring accountability for positive outcomes for at-risk youth and families. Wira Gardiner's strategic vision guides the organization's response to evolving societal challenges impacting children.

Stephanie Short, the Acting General Manager, Office of the Chief Executive Officer at Oranga Tamariki, manages critical administrative and operational functions supporting the Chief Executive's strategic objectives. Short ensures the seamless execution of policies and programs aimed at safeguarding children and youth in New Zealand. This role involves coordinating inter-departmental efforts, facilitating communication between leadership and operational teams, and overseeing the efficient delivery of services such as family support and caregiving. The Acting General Manager, Office of the Chief Executive Officer plays a vital part in maintaining the organization's focus on creating a secure and nurturing environment for children. Stephanie Short's responsibilities include driving operational improvements and ensuring that the ministry's resources are effectively allocated to meet the needs of at-risk children and families. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining organizational coherence and advancing the mission of child protection.

Elizabeth Scurr, the Chief Financial Officer at Oranga Tamariki, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the organization. Scurr is responsible for managing budgets, financial planning, and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources to support the safeguarding and wellbeing of children in New Zealand. This executive role involves overseeing financial reporting, risk management, and compliance with governmental financial regulations. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in enabling the delivery of essential services, including family support, caregiving, and youth justice programs, by ensuring financial stability and sustainability. Elizabeth Scurr's leadership ensures that financial decisions directly contribute to the organization's mission of providing a nurturing environment for children. This involves optimizing financial performance and driving fiscal accountability across all departments, supporting the ministry's commitment to child welfare.

Emily Hockly, the Chief Legal Officer at Oranga Tamariki, oversees all legal affairs and provides strategic counsel on matters pertaining to child protection and welfare in New Zealand. Hockly ensures the organization operates in full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of children and youth. This executive role involves managing legal risks, advising on policy development, and representing the ministry in legal proceedings. The Chief Legal Officer is integral to the effective provision of services such as family support, caregiving, and youth justice programs, ensuring legal frameworks support a nurturing environment for children. Emily Hockly's expertise guides the organization's approach to complex legal challenges, reinforcing the commitment to child safety and support. This leadership position is critical for maintaining legal integrity and advancing the ministry's mission.