Chief Executive, Lifewise NZ

Haehaetu Barrett

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Ko Te Arawa te waka
Ko Ngāti Whakaue te iwi
Ko Ngāti Kārenga te hapū
Ko Ngongotahā te maunga
Ko Te Utuhina te awa
Ko Te Rotoruanuiakahumatamomoe te roto moana
Ko Te Koutū te marae
Ko Tamatekapua te tangata
Ko Haehaetu Barrett toku ingoa
Ko au te Upoko Rangatira o Te Whanau Lifewise Trust

Haehaetu Barrett is a trained clinician and manager with a unique 30-year background in Māori leadership, management, clinical and quality risk expertise, strategic planning, business development, and Iwi (tribe) partnerships. Born and bred in Te Koutu Rotorua, she has served the mental health and addictions sector at all levels ensuring that the voices of people with lived experience are upheld and align with the aspirational values and teachings of her tūpuna (ancestors).  

Haehaetu was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of Lifewise Aotearoa in 2022, leading the delivery of social services across Auckland and the Bay of Plenty Region for tamariki (children) through to kuia (grandmother) and kaumatua (grandfather). When able, Haehaetu supports her Iwi trusts, the growth, and development of small business organisations.  Haehaetu is a recognised national and international guest speaker at conferences relating to indigenous well-being, mental health, and addictions, Māori Hauora (holistic wellbeing), and homelessness. Haehaetu is committed to ensuring that services and workforce are competent for the people it serves.  

A proud mother, grandmother, and leader, Haehaetu emerged as a top 10 semi-finalist for New Zealander of the Year 2023 marking significant recognition for her tireless efforts in combating social injustices and championing the cause of marginalised communities in Aotearoa, New Zealand.