11 Jul 2013

New Te Papa chair hopes to strengthen ties with iwi

6:31 am on 11 July 2013

The new chair of the national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa, aims to liaise with a wider range of iwi and communities.

Auckland lawyer Evan Williams recently stepped in to the role, having held the position of deputy chair since August last year. He replaced Sir Wira Gardiner.

Mr Williams said it's a fantastic time to take over the chairmanship and he has exciting plans for the future.

He said the museum is taking a more national approach to its work and hopes that in doing that, it can strengthen relationships with more iwi and communities.

Mr Williams commended Sir Wira, saying very few people would have been able to do what he has done in re-structuring the museum.