Evie O’Brien

Chief Executive

Evie, together with our Pouwhakahaere, establishes strategic priorities and oversees key organisational initiatives, ensuring the continued success of Te Wānanga o Aotearoa in supporting whānau transformation through education.

Position: Chief Executive

Iwi: Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāti Maniapoto

Qualifications: BEd. (Adult Education), MBA (Distinction)

Evie has previously held senior roles at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa but returned as Chief Executive in January 2025. She brings a wealth of leadership experience in the tertiary education sector, a strong strategic mindset, and a commitment to ensuring Te Wānanga o Aotearoa continues to empower whānau through education.

Previously serving as Executive Director of the Atlantic Institute at Oxford University and Deputy Chief Executive at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, Evie has dedicated her career to advancing Māori and Indigenous education and supporting tauira success.

A humble and courageous leader, she is committed to enhancing the experience of both kaimahi and tauira, fostering an environment where excellence, innovation, and whanaungatanga thrive.

She is a passionate about the future of learning and the role that emerging technologies and AI have in a kaupapa Māori context.

Contact us

Phone 0800 355 553 from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm

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