James Whetu, born and raised in Tokoroa, is of Raukawa, Waikato, and Ngāti Tūwharetoa descent, and lives in Ngāruawāhia with wife Amy and their four children. He has a professional background in resource management policy and planning systems, with expertise to promote and incorporate Māori perspectives. James is Director of Whetū Consultancy Group and The Stream Limited.