This kōrero reflects on a journey across Crown entities and iwi-led governance, offering insight into what changes when you move between these worlds. Drawing on experience as Deputy Chair of the Health Promotion Agency, a member of a District Health Board during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a founding board member of Te Aka Whai Ora – the Māori Health Authority, alongside iwi governance and Whānau Ora commissioning roles, it explores the realities of governing in complex and often contested spaces.

At its core is a reflection on who you are, who you serve, and what you stand for when you sit at the governance table. Drawing on moments of crisis decision-making, system reform, organisational disestablishment, and reflections on when to hold the seat or make space, it explores how governance leaders navigate multiple accountabilities, exercise judgement, and stay grounded in kaupapa Māori values.

Through personal stories and practical reflections, this kōrero challenges the idea that governance is neutral. It highlights the importance of pro-equity allies, mentorship, cultural safety, collective accountability, and exercising power with integrity while creating space for others. Ultimately, it is a call to govern with clarity of purpose, awareness of power, and a commitment to leaving stronger systems, stronger relationships, and stronger governance for the generations that follow.

Dr Mataroria Lyndon MBChB, MPH, PhD (Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Whātua, Waikato) is a Māori clinician, academic, and governance leader whose experience spans Crown entities, iwi organisations, and health system transformation.

He has held three ministerial governance appointments, including as Deputy Chair of the Health Promotion Agency, a board member of Northland District Health Board during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a founding board member of Te Aka Whai Ora – the Māori Health Authority. He currently serves on the boards of Te Tiratū Iwi Māori Partnership Board, Rangitāmiro Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency, Waitangi National Trust, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Foundation, and co-chairs Pūtahi Manawa, the Centre of Research Excellence for heart health.

Dr Lyndon is a co-founder of Tend Health, one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest primary care providers, a medical advisor to the Ngāti Hine Health Trust, and a Senior Lecturer in Medical Education at Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland. His work focuses on governance, health equity, cultural safety, hauora Māori, and data and digital innovation.

A Fulbright Scholar, he holds a Master of Public Health from Harvard University and a PhD in Medical Education. In recognition of his contribution to public sector leadership, he was awarded the Deloitte IPANZ Young Professional of the Year.