About Tuariki delamere
FOUNDING DIRECTOR, KAIAKOPONO-TOHUNGA, LICENSED IMMGRATION ADVISOR
The Honourable Tuariki Delamere is a renowned figure in New Zealand politics and immigration consultancy services. With an extensive background in business and government, Tuariki is a leading authority in the field of immigration and is widely regarded as an expert in his field.
Tuariki began his career in the United States, attending Washington State University and serving in the US military during the 1970s. After returning to New Zealand, he held several high-profile roles in the business sector before transitioning to politics in the 1990s.
As a Member of Parliament and Minister of Immigration, Tuariki played a critical role in shaping New Zealand's immigration policies and practices. His passion for supporting migrants and refugees led him to establish his own immigration consultancy business in 2000.
Tuariki is the founder of TDA Immigration, one of New Zealand's leading immigration consultancy firms. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Tuariki has helped countless individuals and families navigate the complex process of immigrating to New Zealand. His role at TDA today is that of Kaiakopono-Tohunga (Maori for “Expert Mentor”) as he has handed on the reins of Managing Director to his daughter Arlana.
He is also widely known in the Maori world- Te Ao Maori having been a Member of Parliament for a Maori electorate, Chairman of his tribal trust board and political spokesperson for His Majesty King Tuheitia, the Maori King.
In addition to his expertise in immigration, Tuariki has a formidable reputation as an athlete competing internationally in both athletics and basketball. And he is also the world-record holder for the longest somersault long-jump, showcasing his talent and determination in all aspects of his life.
His commitment to excellence and dedication to his clients have earned him a reputation as a trusted adviser and leader in the immigration consultancy industry.
FORMATIVE YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
Born in 1951, Tuariki John Edward Delamere was recognized as the top Māori student in New Zealand in 1967 and 1969. He pursued higher education in the United States, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts from Washington State University and a Master of Business Administration from Long Island University.
DIVERSE CAREER PATHWAYS
Tuariki served in the United States Army from 1974 to 1978 on the staff at the famed United States Military Academy, West Point. Returning to New Zealand he worked in a number of high-profile roles, including Country Manager for a major USA computer company, and chief financial officer for Polynesian Airlines. He then accepted bureaucratic roles in New Zealand, including Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations manger for the Department of Justice and Regional Director for The Ministry of Maori Development.
ATHLETIC PROWESS
Tuariki had a notable sporting career, setting records in long jump and triple jump, and representing New Zealand in the 1974 Commonwealth Games. He has achieved lasting worldwide recognition as still the holder of the longest somersault long jump in history, achieved in 1974 in the Los Angeles Coliseum.
STEPPING INTO POLITICS
Tuariki entered politics with New Zealand First in 1996, serving as a Member of Parliament for the Maori electorate of Te Tairawhiti, and held several Ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Customs, Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, and Minister of Immigration.
ENTREPRENEURIAL VENTURES
Since leaving Parliament, Tuariki established himself as an immigration consultant, founding the immigration consultancy of TDA Immigration (TDA) in 2000. TDA has proven to be a tremendous success as it has successfully represented more than 10,000 clients from all over the world and assisted over 90 of TDA’s clients to win appeals in the Immigration and Protection Tribunal all the way through to the Supreme Court.
FAMILY AND LEGACY
Tuariki has been married to Jo-Ell for more than 50 years, and they share three children, eight grandchildren and have recently rejoiced at the arrival of their first great-grandchild. His journey reflects a commitment to public service, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.