Renee Smith-Apanui is a committed to improving health and wellbeing outcomes for whānau across Aotearoa, bringing extensive experience in cultural strategy, Te Tiriti o Waitangi implementation, and systemic transformation. Her governance experience includes associate board role for Te Arataura (Waikato-Tainui), and past roles with Paediatric Society NZ, He Hono Wāhine, and many advisory roles across DHB’s and the Health Quality Safety Commission.

Currently Director of Treaty Capability at the Department of Conservation, Renee leads national programmes embedding Te Ao Māori into organisational strategy and practice. Renee also serves as Managing Director of ŌRUA, a kaupapa Māori architectural firm focused on creating innovative, culturally grounded solutions. When not busy at mahi, Renee is following her four tamariki across the country with all their different sporting, kura, and kapahaka kaupapa.