Kara Puketapu-Dentice: Wellington’s Proud Māori Changemaker

Leading Change in the Heart of Wellington

First and foremost, Kara Puketapu-Dentice deserves credit for reshaping the future of Wellington. As a Māori leader, his influence is deeply rooted in the city’s most vital developments. One of his most talked-about achievements is leading the powerful Tūpiki Ora Māori Strategy. This framework, adopted by the Wellington City Council, uplifts Māori voices and well-being in every aspect of city life.

In addition, Kara played a key role in major projects like RiverLink while serving as Director of Economy and Development at Hutt City Council. His work there included overseeing housing, transport, and urban growth—all crucial to Wellington’s future.

From Wainuiomata to Wellington’s Leadership Table

Originally from Wainuiomata, a suburb of Wellington, Kara belongs to Te Āti Awa and Ngāi Tūhoe. He now lives in Wellington, where his leadership continues to thrive. Notably, he holds a Master’s degree with distinction in Planning and Resource Management from the University of Otago.

Moreover, Kara’s passion for growth and connection extends internationally. He joined leadership programs in Hawaii and Malaysia, including the prestigious Obama Foundation Asia Pacific Leadership Forum.

Guiding Wellington Through Culture and Care

Kara is not only about development—he’s also a fierce guardian of Māori culture. As co-chair of the Whaitua Te Whanganui-a-Tara Committee, he ensures Māori values guide Wellington’s environmental decisions. He believes in weaving mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) into every layer of city planning.

What’s more, he now leads Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika, a post-settlement iwi organization with over 20,000 members. There, he works to lift whānau (families) through culture, economy, and the environment.

We’re So Proud of You, Kara

Kara Puketapu-Dentice is a proud Wellingtonian making lasting change. Through courage, care, and connection, he is helping Wellington become a city where everyone can thrive. We are deeply proud of him and all he’s doing for our communities and country.

Kara’s journey from Wainuiomata to Wellington leadership is inspiring. He reminds us all that with vision and heart, we can build a better future—starting right here in Wellington.