Mata Cherrington is dedicated to improving hauora outcomes for whānau Māori through strategic and advisory roles.
Mata holds a Bachelor of Laws – LLB and a Bachelor of Social Science in Political Science. She has gained key leadership experience through her time in the military, corporate, health, social, education, and whānau ora sectors. Her passion is driven by her desire to create changes for whānau.
"When I look at my tama and kōtiro, I am reminded that the work I carry out today is because of the desire to realise the aspirations of my tupuna, and my motivation is to ensure we achieve pae ora for my tamariki mokopuna."
Mata Cherrington is a formidable advocate for Māori health and social equity, previously serving as the Kaihautū (Chief Executive Officer) of Awarua Whānau Services in Murihiku (Southland). With over two decades of experience in kaupapa Māori health leadership, Mata has been instrumental in addressing the intergenerational challenges faced by whānau, particularly in the realms of youth justice, education, and systemic racism.
Under Mata’s leadership, Awarua Whānau Services has grown its impact, delivering holistic health, education, and social support grounded in Te Ao Māori. Her deep commitment to rangatahi Māori has sparked innovative programmes that empower youth to reclaim their stories and shape bold futures. Mata credits the diverse leaders who guided her as a young person for instilling the courage to challenge norms and pursue transformative change.
In 2024, Mata contributed to a pivotal resource developed by the Centre for Social Impact, focusing on practical applications of Te Tiriti o Waitangi for philanthropic organisations. Her insights, drawn from years of frontline experience as well as governance roles in philanthropy, have guided funders in understanding the importance of genuine partnership and power-sharing with Māori communities.
Mata's leadership is characterised by her deep-rooted connection to her whakapapa and her relentless pursuit of equity for Māori. Her work continues to inspire systemic change, ensuring that Māori voices are central in shaping the future of Aotearoa's health and social landscapes.
Mata served as Pou Taki ki Te Waipounamu Regional Director at Te Aka Whai Ora, where she championed equitable hauora services across Te Waipounamu, Rakiura, and the Chatham Islands. She approaches hauora holistically, recognising that true pae ora requires addressing education, mental health, spiritual wellbeing, and the environment. Mata continues this vital work within Te Whatu Ora, driving systemic change for healthier futures.
Mata is deeply grateful to those who have shared their wisdom with her. She honours their legacy by using every opportunity to contribute to the collective pursuit of pae ora for whānau Māori me ngā iwi katoa.
Links:
New Māori health leader: ‘they are not just numbers’
Health leader's dreams nurtured at kitchen table
Te Aka Whai Ora - Māori Health Authority confirms interim leadership appointments
17 April 2025
