Peke Waihanga Board Chair’s 10-Year Term Ends

Retiring Chair George Reedy has been recognised for his 10 years at the head of the Peke Waihanga Board.  

Mr Reedy says the opening of the new Christchurch Centre was a highlight of his time as chair because it brought together the aspirations of the board, staff and amputees for a better future for the mobility of clients.  Investment by both the board and government in the centre demonstrated that the high-performing culture at Peke Waihanga was valued and supported Mr Reedy said. 

“The many threads came together well in terms of commitment to amputees and the investment by New Zealand in their wellbeing, and recognition of our staff’s importance to amputees and Peke Waihanga.” 

Mr Reedy says the biggest changes he had noted over the past 10 years had been in the way Peke Waihanga had been managed to improve outcomes for amputees and others seeking support for their mobility.  

“The innovation and application of technology across the sector has been great to see. The feedback from whānau using services has been wonderful,” he said. 

A special lunch was held where former gold medal paralympic racing cyclist and previous board member and Disability Rights Commissioner Paula Tesoriero presented Mr Reedy with a specially commissioned pounamu.  

Peke Waihanga Rākau Rangatira Māori Cultural Advisor Ken Te Tau also paid tribute to Mr Reedy’s contribution who he said had “transformed Peke Waihanga, securing an accessible and flourishing future for those who have suffered limb loss”.  

CEO Sean Gray, who worked with Mr Reedy for much of his term said “George is a lovely soul who has really cared for our mahi. It has been my absolute pleasure working with him.”  

The new chair is Kevin Ross, a current member of the board. He has an extensive background in Local Government spanning over 30 years with the Whanganui District Council including serving as the Chief Executive for seven years. He currently chairs the Tararua District Council Audit and Risk Committee. Kevin’s son Christopher represented New Zealand in Cycling at the London Paralympics.