New President Shane Hona
Category: National. Posted: 2 October 2026
The NZ Biosecurity Institute (NZBI) has elected Rotorua-based Shane Hona as its president. Presently Environmental Manager for Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa, Mr Hona has a background in environmental and biosecurity management, Māori development, and environmental stewardship including forestry and biodiversity restoration.
His career has included roles as a Biosecurity Officer with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Advisor and Senior Regional Investment Advisor at Te Puni Kōkiri (Ministry of Māori Development).
NZBI immediate past president Diane Fraser, who stepped down from the role in August, said Mr Hona has been a valuable vice president who has brought to the Institute, a valuable set of skills gained from his roles in the science, cultural and environmental sectors.
Mr Hona said it is important to encourage new people into the biosecurity sector and to promote clear career pathways. He plans to focus on the work begun by the NZBI Executive Committee to further the Institute’s mentoring scheme, and ensure the Institute’s Awards and Scholarships programme remans relevant.