Tupu Angitu CEO Olivia Poulsen steps down

‘Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu’ - ‘Adorned with feathers the bird is able to soar’

The Board of Tupu Angitu, the commercial subsidiary of Lake Taupō Forest Trust, has announced the resignation of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Olivia Poulsen. Olivia has been in the role since the start of 2023.

Tupu Angitu General Manager Investment Michael Hancock, Te Arawa Waka (Mai Maketu ki Tongariro), Tauranga Moana, Ngāpuhi, will act in the CEO role from 1 October 2025, and Olivia will work with him in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.

Chair of Lake Taupō Forest Trust and Tupu Angitu Director, Tina Porou, acknowledged the contribution Olivia made as the organisation’s first Chief Executive, establishing the core kaupapa, strategic direction and relationships at the heart of Tupu Angitu.

“Under her leadership, the organisation has navigated the many challenges associated with establishing an entity, including building a team and resilience, as well as taking positive steps towards greater diversification through new investments.

“Olivia also navigated with expertise and empathy our response to Cyclone Gabrielle, which continues to have a significant impact on our business and our people.

“On behalf of the Board, we recognise and thank Olivia for her service to our kaimahi, whānau and partners and wish her every success,” she added.

Olivia said she was grateful to have had the opportunity to perform a role of such significance for Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Lake Taupō Forest Trust.

“I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved as a team and our progress toward our mission – growing our asset base in an ethical and sustainable way for the wellbeing of current and future generations.

“Having executed investments in the tourism, property, financial services, energy and sustainability spheres, including Te Kiri O Moehau Partnership’s acquisition and redevelopment of Huka Prawn Park in Taupō, acquiring a stake in Pioneer Energy as part of Tōtara Investments, and establishing our joint venture with PMG Funds to launch Te Iho Tahi, a Te Āo Māori property fund, we have made significant steps to diversify and grow and I know Tupu Angitu is well positioned for success going forward.”

Michael Hancock named Acting CEO

Tupu Angitu General Manager Investment Michael Hancock, Te Arawa Waka (Mai Maketu ki Tongariro), Tauranga Moana, Ngāpuhi, has agreed to act in the role from 1 October 2025, while a formal recruitment process is undertaken to replace Olivia.

A carefully planned transition process is in place to ensure stability and business continuity throughout the change.