Tiumalu Peter Fa’afiu is the new chair of Financial Advice New Zealand.

He has been on the board as an independent director since April 2023 and takes over from Heather Roy, who will leave next month after more than four years in the role.

“It is now time for me to pass the baton to someone I know is going to take the association through its next phase,” Ms Roy said.

“Peter’s time on the board has given him the experience and understanding of the particular nuances of the financial advice sector to lead the board into a new era.”

Mr Fa’afiu previously served as chair of Amnesty International NZ and spent more than eight years at New Zealand’s foreign affairs and trade ministry.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the board and support our CEO Nick Hakes and his team in executing our strategic plan and strengthen our position in the community as an adviser-driven, high-engagement professional body,” Mr Fa’afiu said.

“Now is a perfect time for building new pathways for Kiwis to obtain financial advice to help manage their financial wellbeing now and in the future.”

Mr Fa’afiu will serve as chair while continuing in roles with the Environmental Protection Authority, Urban Plus and Monte Cecilia Housing Trust.