Two New Trustees for the Trust

Community Trust South is pleased to announce the appointment of Megan Templeton and Garry Hopcroft to its Board of Trustees.

Confirmed by the Associate Minister of Finance as part of the 2025 national Community Trust appointments, Megan and Garry began their four-year terms on 30 January 2026.

Trust Heamana/Chair Margot Hishon said the Trust is delighted to welcome two highly capable Trustees who will bring a wealth of knowledge and lived experience.

“Both Megan and Garry have strong ties to Murihiku Southland and bring valuable governance, community, and professional experience. Their insight will support our continued focus on strengthening our communities and ensuring careful stewardship of our Trust’s assets,” said Mrs Hishon.

 With Megan based in Waimatuku, Western Southland, and Garry located in Central Southland, the Trust continues to benefit from strong geographical representation across the rohe, ensuring local voices and perspectives inform decision‑making throughout the region.

Megan and Garry join current trustees, Heamana/chair Margot Hishon, Samuel Grant, Mel Montgomerry, Maria Pera, Warren Skerrett, Stephen Canny and Tuarua Heamana/deputy chair Bridgette Smith.

Heamana/chair Margot Hishon acknowledged the service of retiring Trustees Leon Hartnett and Leanne Samuel who finished their term as Trustees on the 29th January 2026.

The Community Trust South Board will have its first meeting for 2026 on Wednesday 18th February.

Community Trust South is governed by the Community Trusts Act 1999 and provides significant funding to a wide range of community organisations for projects, services and programmes across the rohe (region). Since its inception in 1988 it has distributed $240 million in grants.