Human Rights Environment
Richard Tankersley
Commissioner
Based in Christchurch, Richard Tankersley was appointed a part-time Commissioner in September 2008 for a five year term that ends 31 August 2013. He brings South Island issues and experience in the iwi, health, education and training, community and voluntary, and public sectors to the Commission. Along the way he has gained a BA in English, a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science (Mental Health), and also has a Diploma (Level 5) in Arataki Manu Korero (Marae Leadership) from Te Wananga o Aotearoa.
Richard is of mixed Pākehā and Māori descent and his iwi affiliations are Kai Tahu, Kati Mamoe and Waitaha. In addition to many years work as an independent consultant to non-profit and local government agencies, in recent years Richard has been a team leader at the Glenelg Children’s Camp and a special projects worker with the Alcohol Drug Association of New Zealand. Richard also served as the South Island Assistant Regional Manager with Chief Electoral Office for the 2005 election.
Richard has had a range of experience in community development, mental health and health promotion work, much of it in bi-cultural settings, and is also a trained and registered Celebrant. He brings a passion for diversity to his role, and in addition to his delegated responsibilities he contributes Treaty and Tangata Whenua issues within the Commission and is a member of the Audit Committee.
Portfolio Responsibilities
- Human Rights Environment: regional engagement – Te Waipounamu; sexual orientation and gender identity and issues for intersex people
- Race Relations: interfaith activities and religious diversity
- Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Project
- Te Mana i Waitangi with other Commissioners.