A Ngati Kahungunu leader who helped secure the iwi's first Treaty of Waitangi settlement and establish its place in the fishing industry has stepped down as head of the iwi's business arm.
Aramanu Ropiha joined the ranks of Ngati Kahungunu's management as general manager in 2008 before taking the head position at Kahungunu Asset Holding Company.
Ms Ropiha played a pivotal role in securing the iwi's first treaty settlement.
She also worked with local Kahungunu fishermen in the industry and represented the iwi on a national level.
Ms Rophia is leaving Kahungunu Asset Holding Company to work on new unnamed projects.
The company described her time in management as the buoy that helped float the iwi's net.
