The appointment follows the passing of the previous Chair, Alan Livingston, in April this year.
What QEII National Trust Does
QEII works in partnership with landowners to protect and enhance special areas of biodiversity and cultural heritage on private land through covenants.
The Trust has built strong connections across the farming, rural, and conservation sectors, and holds a strong operating record with the Department of Conservation and tangata whenua.
Who Is Susan O'Regan?
A Waikato dairy farmer with experience working alongside iwi, Susan O'Regan also brings governance experience, including a term as Mayor of Waipa District Council.
She currently serves as a Crown appointee on the Waikato River Authority — putting her in a strong position to lead the QEII Board and engage with stakeholders across the sector.
Susan O'Regan's Reaction to the Appointment
O'Regan says she is delighted with the appointment and is looking forward to getting started in the role, including meeting the landowners protecting and enhancing biodiversity across the country.
"I am deeply honoured to be appointed Chair of the QEII National Trust and grateful to Minister Potaka for his confidence in me," she says. "QEII does extraordinary work — quietly, consistently, and in genuine partnership with landowners — and I am humbled to take on the responsibility of leading it at such an important time."
O'Regan says the Trust's mission to protect and enhance open space and biodiversity on private land has never been more relevant.
"Some of the rare plants and animals protected by QEII covenants are only found on private land, so it's really impactful work and only possible because of the strong relationships and reputation QEII has in the community. I look forward to working alongside the Board, the team, and QEII's passionate community of covenantors to strengthen that work and ensure it endures for future generations."
She says her connection to the role goes beyond governance experience.
"As a Waikato farmer myself, with land I care deeply about, I bring to this role not just governance experience but a personal connection to what QEII represents — the belief that those of us who are privileged to be kaitiaki of our land have a responsibility to protect what is precious on it."
O'Regan also paid tribute to her predecessor.
"I also acknowledge the passing of QEII Chair Alan Livingston in April — his connections, considerable commitment and passion have been invaluable for QEII, and he leaves big shoes to fill."
O'Regan is considered to hold significant mana and trust within her communities, positioning her to set the organisation's vision and collaborate effectively toward the Trust's objectives.
QEII Chief Executive's Response
QEII Chief Executive Dan Coup has welcomed the appointment, saying he's looking forward to getting to know O'Regan and working collaboratively on the opportunities and challenges facing the Trust.
"Susan has a good understanding of the Trust's work already, and we look forward to her leadership in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead of us," Coup says.
The QEII National Trust Board comprises six members — four appointed by the Minister of Conservation and two elected by QEII National Trust members.
The three other Minister-appointed board members are Philip Hulme, Richard McDowell, and Debbie Hyland. The two member-elected board members, elected in 2025, are Graham Mourie and Marie Taylor.
