What is the wind that calls us forward?

In a world of accelerating change, Māori governors are increasingly required to navigate tensions that do not have simple answers. Tradition and innovation. Tikanga and technology. Stewardship and transformation. Community aspirations and commercial realities.

Drawing on my journey as a Māori governor, and technology executive, I explore the concept of Te Kuru o te Ihu, the prow of the waka where new horizons are first encountered and where leadership is often most exposed.

Through personal stories, reflections on governance, and insights into emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, the challenge will be to rethink what balance truly means. Rather than standing between two worlds, balance may be found in moving confidently forward while remaining grounded in who we are.

This kōrero talks to stepping to the front of the waka, honouring the wisdom of our ancestors, and helping to shape the future for those yet to come.

Dan (Ngāruahine, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Ruanui, Tūhourangi (Te Arawa)) is a technology leader, board director, and CEO/founder of Toitū AI, a kaupapa Māori consultancy focused on tikanga-led and values-based approaches to artificial intelligence. He is passionate about ensuring emerging technologies contribute to the wellbeing and prosperity of communities, while protecting cultural integrity, Indigenous knowledge, and data sovereignty.

A former senior leader at Microsoft, Dan has spent more than two decades leading growth, innovation, and digital transformation across New Zealand and international technology organisations. He now works across governance, leadership, and AI strategy, helping organisations navigate the opportunities and challenges of rapid technological change.

Dan currently serves as Chair of Child Cancer Foundation, Deputy Chair of NZ Māori Tourism, Director of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Deputy Chair of Ngāti Ruanui Holdings, and holds a number of other community governance and advisory board roles across Aotearoa.

In 2025, Dan was recognised as both New Zealand Leader of the Year and Māori Leader of the Year at the New Zealand Leadership Awards & the Rangatira Tohu at Te Hapori Matihiko Māori Technology Awards. He is currently undertaking executive studies through Stanford University while completing PhD doctoral research through Awanuiārangi exploring kaupapa Māori approaches to AI innovation.