Governance

NorthTec Establishment Advisory Group (EAG)

The role of the EAG is to provide governance, leadership, and strategic oversight to ensure NorthTec delivers high‑quality, industry‑aligned programmes for Te Tai Tokerau.  

This includes:

- strategic leadership – setting the long-term vision and direction, approving strategic plans and priorities.

- financial stewardship and risk – approval of budgets, financial planning and sustainability, organisational risk and compliance.

- academic quality – ensuring institutional performance, quality assurance and compliance.

- partnership with community, iwi and industry – ensuring EIT engages with key partners to ensure programmes meet learner, community and workforce need, are culturally responsive, and uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi

- oversight of the Chief Executive.

The EAG currently comprises three members appointed by the Minister of Vocational Education.  

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Northland Polytechnic Limited (NorthTec)  - EAG Members

Graeme Kerr CA

• Graeme Kerr is a senior Northland business leader with more than 40 years of commercial, governance and investment experience. Graeme was Managing Director of Hansen Products (NZ) Ltd, a leading Northland manufacturer, until his retirement from the executive role in 2019. During his time with Hansen, the business grew into an international manufacturer exporting to more than 18 countries. He remains a shareholder and director of Hansen Products. Prior to joining Hansen Products, Graeme was a Partner with Grant Thornton in Whangārei, providing accounting, advisory and business services to a wide range of Northland businesses. A Chartered Accountant and member of the Institute of Directors, Graeme has extensive experience in business growth, strategy, finance, organisational change and governance. Graeme has a strong commitment to Te Tai Tokerau and is particularly interested in strengthening the connection between education, employers and industry, creating opportunities for Northlanders, and contributing to the economic and social prosperity of the region.

Nicola Faithfull

• Nicola was born in Dargaville, raised in Whangārei, and is now based in Kerikeri. She brings extensive governance and leadership experience across tertiary education, local government, professional organisations, and major change programmes. Having also lived and worked overseas and in Auckland, Nicola offers a strong regional perspective complemented by national and international experience. Nicola currently works as a Strategic Programme Capability Consultant at the University of Auckland and holds governance and committee roles with Whangārei District Holdings Limited and the global Project Management Institute (PMI). She previously served on the PMI New Zealand Board, including two years as President. Her expertise spans strategic planning and execution, portfolio and investment prioritisation, programme and organisational governance, organisational change, and benefits realisation. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Nicola is passionate about collaborative, values-led governance and is committed to supporting education, skills development, and opportunities that strengthen Te Tai Tokerau and its communities.

Tim Robinson

• Tim Robinson is a respected Northland business leader with more than 35 years’ experience across business ownership, sales leadership, governance, and community advocacy. As co-owner and director of Bernina Northland, he has successfully transformed and grown the business, driving innovation, customer experience excellence, and sustainable growth. He is recognised for his strengths in strategic planning, relationship management, business development, and organisational leadership. Tim has extensive governance experience, serving as President of the Northland Chamber of Commerce since 2020 and previously as a board member. In this role, he helps provide strategic direction for the region’s business community while working closely with business leaders, local government, and key stakeholders. He also served three terms as Chair of the Whangārei Boys’ High School Board, overseeing significant organisational achievements, including approval of a major school redevelopment programme. Tim is passionate about contributing to the prosperity of Te Tai Tokerau and bringing practical business insight to governance and leadership roles.

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Meetings

Please contact governance@northtec.ac.nz for a video link and a copy of the agenda if you would like to attend either of these meetings.

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October 14th 2026, commencing at 9am

• Agenda, Schedule of Policies
• Minutes

October 30th 2026, commencing at 9am

• Agenda
• Minutes

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