School Board

The Māngere College School Board strives to provide excellence in education for all of our students. It is accountable for our student progress and achievement to the whanau, community and the Government. The board has the overall responsibility and accountability for the running of Māngere College. The School Board aims to perform its functions and exercise its powers in such a way as to ensure that every student at the school is able to attain his or her highest possible standard in educational achievement, and to Seek the Heights in all they do.

Maria Aka - Presiding Member

Of Cook Islands heritage, Maria Aka dedicates herself to the community and has been actively involved in school board roles for over ten years, with a strong focus on supporting tāngata whaikaha. Her diverse experience includes roles in Information Technology, Finance, Accounting, and as a Relationship Manager in the vocational education field, alongside her duties as treasurer for the Vagahau Niue Trust. As the Presiding Member of Māngere College, Maria’s vision is clear: "Our primary aim is to guarantee that every student receives a quality education that prepares them for future success. To do this, we need to raise academic standards, provide more support for our teachers, and foster greater community engagement. Together, we can create an environment that supports our students' academic achievements and personal growth."

Martin La’a – Deputy Presiding Member

Martin La'a is a proud Son of South Auckland and ex-student of Mangere College. Martin was awarded the First Foundation scholarship at Mangere College in 2005 with (then) Telecom where he has since pursued a career in corporate digital services in various fields including Regional Sales Management and Human Resources. Martin also serves on the Spark Foundation Board – a mission to drive toward digital equity and creating meaningful pathways for Maori and Pasifika into Tech. Grounded by Faith, Martin’s purpose and passion is serving the community, amplifying our voices, and helping other young Maori and Pasifika realise their potential in Aotearoa.

Joe Glassie-Rasmussen

Joe Glassie is a proud alumni of Māngere College. He is a member of the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board, a local medical professional and a strong community advocate.

Tuataga Hermann Arp Jr
- Staff Elected Member

Talofa Lava. O lo'u igoa o Tuataga Hermann Arp Jr. I am currently a staff representative on the Board.  I have been at Mangere College since 2007, beginning in the Learning Support Centre and for the past few years continuing the inspiration of students in the Achievement Centre (ACH). The ACH is a space for returning 'mainstream' students.  We help them to truly see themselves and understand that their cultural identity, whakapapa or gafa plays an integral part in their academic achievement.  We do this by establishing warm relationships (faavaeina o mafutaga mafanafana, tauhi vā māfana) with whanau, aiga or families. We truly do believe that for students to Trust their Power, the whole village must come together in support of them.  

Melegalenuu Ah Sam

Mele Ah Sam is currently the Acting Principal of Māngere College. She began teaching here In 1990. In 2012 she led the establishment of a special languages block as a hub for Māori and Pacific learning at the college. In 2022 Melegalenuu Ah Sam was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Pacific language education. 

Tulei Salu - Student Elected Member

Tulei is one of our 2024 Head Students and involved in a variety of activities and groups around the school.

Vaiora Ngatuakana

Oliana Eniata