New Chair and Deputy Chair Appointed to Otago Community Trust Board

Media Release

Otago Community Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Stacey Honeywill (Kāi Tahu) as Chair and Rebecca Williams as Deputy Chair of its Board of Trustees. The Trust acknowledges with gratitude the outstanding leadership of previous Chair Andy Kilsby and Deputy Chair Barb Long, whose dedication has significantly shaped the organisation.

Stacey Honeywill brings a wealth of executive leadership and governance experience to the role of Chair. An accomplished educator, Stacey is the Principal of Te Pākihi o Maru in Ōamaru, where her career has been dedicated to fostering growth and equity through a collaborative leadership approach.

Stacey also serves as Vice President of Te Akatea (New Zealand Māori Principals’ Association), where she advocates for Māori educational achievement and leadership at a national level. Her work is driven by a commitment to the wellbeing of tamariki and whānau, ensuring that community resources and opportunities are accessible and impactful for all.

“I am honoured to step into the role of Chair at such an exciting time for Otago Community Trust,” said Stacey. “I want to acknowledge all those who have served in this role before me and the strong legacy they have built. I am deeply grateful to Andy for his steadfast and dedicated leadership over the past three years. His commitment to the Trust and to the communities of Otago has laid a strong foundation, and I look forward to building on that work as we complete our new strategic plan. I am committed to ensuring the Trust continues to make a real and lasting difference for the people and communities we serve.”

The Trust extends its sincere thanks to Andy Kilsby for his service as Chair. Andy has brought his extensive management and governance experience to the role, having worked across Education, Youth Development, Finance, and community organisations in Dunedin and Otago. His leadership over the past three years has been invaluable, and the Trust looks forward to his continued contribution as a Trustee.

Rebecca Williams has been appointed as Deputy Chair and is looking forward to supporting Stacey in her new role. Raised in Waikouaiti and now living in Cromwell, Rebecca brings more than 20 years of experience across local government and education sectors.

Rebecca said “I am delighted to take on the role of Deputy Chair and to support Stacey as we move forward together. I am passionate about building stronger communities, and I look forward to continuing to support the organisations across Otago that are doing such important mahi. I also want to acknowledge Barb Long’s tremendous service as Deputy Chair - her commitment and expertise have been a real asset to the Trust.”

The Trust warmly acknowledges the service of outgoing Deputy Chair Barb Long. With more than two decades of leadership across Aotearoa’s primary health, community health, and social services sectors, Barb has brought exceptional depth and heart to her governance role. Barb will complete her tenure as a Trustee later this year, and the Board thanks her sincerely for her commitment, wisdom, and dedication.