Taituarā members come from across the motu and work in a range of operational, leadership and strategic roles in local government. They are united by a drive for professional excellence through connection, knowledge and care for their communities. Our member profiles allow us to get to know our members better, share their stories and highlight the passionate people working in local government.
Get to know Taituarā member, Corin Haines – who is about to step into the role of Chief Executive at Tararua District Council.
We spoke to Corin Haines just days before taking on his biggest local government role yet: Chief Executive at Tararua District Council. After 14 years in the sector (across three different stints), it’s a move that reflects both the breadth of his experience and his long-standing connection to communities.
Until the end of this week, he’s Group Manager Community at Masterton District Council, and preparing for a shift to Dannevirke with his wife, two dogs and seven chickens.
A grounding in libraries
Corin’s local government story started in the library at New Plymouth District Council during the development of Puke Ariki, a memorable project to be part of.
“It was a job where I’d spend the morning leading the migration of data, and then in the afternoon find myself helping move a cannon that had been used in the New Zealand Wars,” he says. “It was humbling and pretty special to be part of creating something like that.”
Most of Corin’s career since then has had a library focus, including being part of the management team through the Auckland amalgamation at Auckland Libraries.
Moving on up
Becoming a Chief Executive wasn’t always the plan. However, after a year at Masterton his manger left and Corin decided he’d better “put my hand up or shut up”. He had ideas on how things could be done better and this decision became a turning point in his career trajectory.
He stepped into an acting executive role, was appointed permanently, and as Group Manager Community, found himself leading a huge and varied portfolio – from community development and customer services to emergency management, environmental health, animal control, facilities and open spaces.
“That grounding across so many areas is what’s really enabled me to grow my career into senior leadership.”
Another turning point for Corin was taking part in the Taituarā Accelerated Leadership Programme in 2021 which continued to spark an interest in senior leadership and helped set the direction for the next stage of his career.
GM of crafts and hobbies
Corin’s many hobbies have earned him the nickname “GM of Crafts and Hobbies” among friends and colleagues.
He’s been baking sourdough since 2006, makes his own gin and vodka using his own stills, has sung in a number of bands, and likes building things, including a greenhouse, smokehouse and wood-fired pizza oven at home.
He’s also into fashion, those who attended the Taituarā 2024 conference might remember Corin took home the award for Best Dressed at the conference dinner – although he insists he doesn’t like to go on about that. (See photo evidence of a well dressed Corin accepting his award below)
His Wairarapa hot tip
Corin has enjoyed his time in the Wairarapa – his top recommendation for any visitors is a clear swimming spot.
“Come to Featherston, go to the Bucks Road campsite and swim in the Tauherenikau River. Too many of our rivers are polluted now, but not there — you know you’re alive when you’ve done that.”
He also rates a visit to Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre which happens to sit right on the border of the Masterton and Tararua districts.
Keep it local
Corin says local government is where he feels most connected and useful.
“It’s the people and the community. Central government can feel quite removed, but in local government you see the impact of decisions every day, and they can make a real difference to people’s lives.”
Corin’s advice to others is to take hold of opportunities that come your way particularly if that opportunity is to work for a smaller local authority.
“You get amazing opportunities and real breadth of experience. Take the chances that come your way, and find a good mentor. I’ve been very lucky in that regard.”
The next chapter
With a career built on saying yes to opportunities and staying close to the communities he serves, Corin is looking forward to the next chapter in Tararua and the difference he can make there.
All the best for your new role in Tararua Corin, we hope the chickens enjoy their new digs in Dannevirke!
