By Terry Walker – Whangamatā Creative Coromandel Trustee
After eight years of dedicated service, Bernie Ross has retired from her role as an original Trustee of He Mana Toi Moehau Trust/ Creative Coromandel. A respected figure in the Whangamatā arts community, Bernie is widely known for her beautiful harakeke weaving and her passionate advocacy for Toi Māori/ Māori art.
Throughout her tenure, Bernie played an integral role in supporting and promoting the arts across the Coromandel Peninsula. As a member of the Trust’s financial team, she was also responsible for signing off on accounts, helping ensure the organisation’s operational integrity.
On behalf of Chair Fiona Cameron, fellow trustees, members, and staff, Creative Coromandel extends heartfelt thanks to Bernie for her outstanding contribution. Her commitment to celebrating and elevating Māori arts has left a lasting legacy.
In recognition of her service, Bernie was gifted the book Toi Te Mana: An Indigenous History of Māori Art – a fitting tribute to her passion and dedication.
While Bernie steps back from her governance role, she is expected to remain a visible and inspiring presence in the local arts scene. We wish her all the best for the future and look forward to seeing where her creative journey leads next.
