Meet the Team
ĀTEA is deliberately small and focused. This allows us to work closely with clients, move at pace, and stay grounded in kaupapa and context. We bring senior‑level thinking and practical experience to each engagement. Where scale, specialist expertise, or additional capacity is required, we work alongside a trusted network of highly experienced technical, commercial, and delivery professionals — strengthening project teams while retaining clear leadership, accountability, and continuity. This approach ensures clients receive the right mix of clarity, depth, and capability, without unnecessary complexity.
tĀNA aPIATA
Infrastructure & Delivery SpecialistTana Apiata brings a strong foundation in civil engineering and infrastructure delivery, with experience across consulting, local government, contracting, and asset management environments.
His early career includes roles with engineering professional services, local authorities, and contractor operations, alongside asset management experience with Fulton Hogan. During this time, he contributed to the establishment and delivery of the Northern Roading Network Outcomes Contract (NOC), strengthening his understanding of integrated delivery and long‑term asset performance.
Tana has also worked with RDT Pacific as an Infrastructure Project Manager, supporting delivery, coordination, and the governance interface on the Te Tii Marae project.
Alongside his technical background, Tana has played a key role in fundraising initiatives that have secured significant investment into Far North communities. This includes both major grant funding and the development of infrastructure and operating models that support long‑term commercial viability. His focus is on helping organisations move beyond funding dependency toward sustainable, resilient delivery.
Tana is currently strengthening his governance and leadership capability through the Pou Tuarā Leadership Circle and the Tupu Tonu – Te Uranga Anamata programme, contributing to the development of Ngāpuhi governance capacity and future leadership.
He brings a practical, steady, and systems‑focused approach to ĀTEA’s mahi, supporting organisations to move confidently from aspiration to funded, deliverable, and enduring outcomes.
jaCQUeline (Jacqui) APIATA
Governance & System Performance ConsultantJacqui is a governance and system performance specialist who works with boards, chairs, and senior leaders to strengthen decision quality in complex environments.
Her work focuses on lifting governance discipline, clarifying decision-rights, and improving how organisations perform at the top—particularly where ambiguity, competing interests, and system pressure intersect. She is known for bringing calm, clear judgement to challenging situations and translating governance into practical, real-world impact.
She brings a partnership-based approach, combining structured thinking, sector insight, and a strong focus on what truly matters—ensuring organisations are well-run, fit for purpose, and delivering meaningful impact.