Our Trustees

Meet the three trustees that administer the WLG Community & Environment Fund.

Community Trustee – Stephanie Rakuraku

Steph has been an active member of the Strathmore Park community for many years, currently supporting the Strathmore Park Residents Association as Secretary and volunteering with Kaibosh Food Rescue. She currently works as a manager at consulting firm Ernst & Young in the Infrastructure Advisory team, where she leads teams to support clients in delivering on strategic change for vulnerable communities. Steph brings skills in communications, project management and selection and assessment processes to her role as the Community Trustee Representative.

Independent Trustee – Sarah Free

Sarah was first elected as a Motukairangi/Eastern Ward councillor in 2013 and served as Deputy Mayor from 2019-2022. In her time on Council, she has held the portfolio for community infrastructure (including during the planning stages of Johnsonville's Waitohi Library) and the portfolio for walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure. She has also chaired the Council's Grants Subcommittee and served as a trustee on the Wellington Zoo board. Sarah is currently Chair of the Regulatory Process Committee and the councillor representative to the Pacific Advisory Group.

Wellington Airport Trustee – Matthew Palliser

Matthew is the Head of Operations at Wellington Airport. He has over 15 years of experience in Airport Operations in both Auckland and Wellington including 4 years on the Auckland Airport Noise Committee. Matt has developed a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing communities in their efforts to promote growth while preserving the natural environment. Matt brings strong stakeholder engagement, project management, and budgeting skills to his role as a Trustee.