Colene Herbert

General Manager Midland Region

I hail from a little slice of paradise on the East Coast of the North Island, Ruatorea.

I grew up truly walking in the fusion of Māori and Pakeha world views, fortunate to have Māori and English heritage. As the last of seven children, I learnt the values of sharing and contributing to the greater good.

I also grew in the richness of having a sibling with an intellectual disability. To say his presence in my life influenced my career pathway is an understatement.

I have spent 35 years working in the disability sector in a variety of roles and for a number of providers. My career started with the psychopaedic nursing programme at Mangere Hospital and Training School in South Auckland as a 17-year-old and has culminated in my inclusion in the CCS Disability Action whānau in 2017. All of my experiences in other roles have prepared me well for the rigours of general management.

I have three gorgeous sons who are my heart. I love entertaining and feeding people (ask me about my famous burnt sugar steamed pudding – it’s legendary).