West Coast New Zealand

In accordance with its Deed of Trust, Development West Coast is governed by six Trustees: three elected and three appointed.

An Advisory Body advises Development West Coast on investments into the West Coast. Its five members are appointed by the Trustees in consultation with the Minister of Finance and in accordance with the Deed of Trust.

Professional Advisors are appointed by the Trustees to provide financial, investment and legal advice as required by the Deed of Trust and as required from time to time.

Selection Process

The three West Coast Districts (Buller, Grey and Westland) each have an elected Trustee. Elections are held every 3 years and are open to all West Coast ratepayers

Of the three appointed Trustees, one is appointed by the Territorial Local Authorities (Buller, Grey and Westland District Councils and the West Coast Regional Council), another is appointed by Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu and one jointly by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of New Zealand and the NZ Law Society.

The Role of the Trustees

The 6 Trustees govern Development West Coast for the benefit of the whole Region. Each Trustee sits on one or more sub-committees for Finance and Audit, Investments and the Committee of Chairs.

During their 3 year term Trustees appoint an Advisory Body and engage Investment Advisors. Trustees are governed by the requirements of the Deed of Trust. The management and operations of the Trust are carried out by the Senior Management team, lead by Warren Gilbertson and Mark Dawson.  Development West Coast meets monthly. Meetings are public excluded due to the commercial and confidential nature of material considered.