Former Prime Minister Dame Jenny Shipley is the new chair of the Waitangi National Trust

Former Prime Minister Dame Jenny Shipley has been named the new chair of the Waitangi National Trust.

Chief executive Ben Dalton said Dame Jenny was chosen for her proven leadership and governance expertise, as well as her deep understanding of New Zealand's history, identity, and aspirations.

He said her appointment came at a significant time for the Trust, with the 200th anniversary of the Treaty of Waitangi fast approaching.

As well as serving as New Zealand's first female Prime Minister, from 1997-99, she had held a range of governance positions across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.

That included chairing the culturally significant Tuia 250 events in 2019, the Northland Tourism Destination Management Plan Leadership Group and Global Women New Zealand.

"Dame Jenny's appointment reflects the Trust's commitment to strong nation-level governance and leadership as we continue to honour and protect the legacy of Waitangi - while ensuring the Treaty Grounds remain a place where all New Zealanders and international visitors can connect with the stories that have shaped our nation," Dalton said.

Dame Jenny said she was honoured to have a chance to contribute to the stewardship of the Treaty Grounds and work alongside trustees, mana whenua and the wider Waitangi community to support its future.

"Waitangi holds a unique place in the story of Aotearoa New Zealand. It's where our nation's founding document was first signed and remains a place of reflection, understanding and connection," she said.

Dame Jenny, who lives in nearby Kororāreka-Russell, described Waitangi as "a place for everyone".

Jenny Shipley (with former Northland MP John Carter), after she rolled Jim Bolger and became New Zealand's first female Prime Minister.

"It has the beautiful Treaty Grounds with its carved meeting house and Treaty House, two outstanding museums that tell the story of our nation, one of the best golf courses in New Zealand, magnificent mountain bike park, great bush walks, beautiful beaches, a hotel and many other attributes. It's my hope that every New Zealander and international visitor alike will come and visit this beautiful place."

Dame Jenny replaces Tania Simpson, who was the first female chair when she was appointed in July last year.

Simpson's time at the helm was short because of a nine-year limit on the total time anyone can serve on the Waitangi National Trust Board.

She was preceded in the role by iwi leader Pita Tipene.

The trust is responsible for looking after the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Waitangi National Estate, gifted to the nation by Lord and Lady Bledisloe in 1932.

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