Julian Wilcox appointed chair of Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori
Monday 5 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Shane Jones, Ngāi Tahu, Whakaata Māori, Julian Wilcox
Broadcaster and Māori language advocate Julian Wilcox has been named the new chair of the Māori Language Commission. His three-year term began on Monday, replacing Professor Rawinia Higgins. Acting Māori Development Minister Shane Jones confirmed the appointment, noting Wilcox's leadership experience and expertise in te reo Māori.
Key facts
4 facts
- Julian Wilcox appointed chair of Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori
- Three-year term commencing 5 October 2026
- Professor Rawinia Higgins MNZM is the outgoing chair
- Wilcox previously served as chief operating officer of Ngāi Tahu
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Broadcaster and Māori language advocate Julian Wilcox has been appointed chair of Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori. His three-year term began on Monday, 5 October 2026.
Acting Māori Development Minister Shane Jones confirmed the appointment, noting Wilcox's leadership experience in both the public and Māori sectors. Wilcox has over 20 years of media experience, including founding roles at Whakaata Māori and hosting RNZ programmes Māpuna and The Hui. He has also held executive roles, such as chief operating officer of Ngāi Tahu.
Wilcox succeeds Professor Rawinia Higgins MNZM, who has led the Commission since 2018. Minister Jones thanked Higgins for her distinguished leadership and her contributions to the revitalisation of te reo Māori.
RNZ is currently assessing the appointment to determine any implications for Wilcox's work with the broadcaster in accordance with editorial policy. The broadcaster stated that Wilcox has declared his appointment as required.
Where reports differ
- One report notes Higgins served as a commissioner in 2015 before becoming chair, while the other only mentions she became head in 2018
Compiled from reports by RNZ and Stuff.