Mike hails from Murihiku (Southland) and an active Ngāi Tahu Iwi member. He has a passion for advocating for better outcomes for Māori, Pasifika and low income communities, ensuring whānau voice is at the forefront of central and local governments policies.

Mike founded and is CEO of Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust, providing environmental, health and social outcomes for vulnerable communities across Central Otago and Aotearoa and actively works alongside Government agencies advocating for low income communities. Alongside the trust, he was a recipient of the Prime Minister’s COVID - 19 response recognition award.

Mike is also a trustee on Shaping Our Futures Inc, Rewiring Aotearoa and holds advisory roles within Waka Kotahi ensuring community voice is woven through government strategy.