Dr. Julie Wharewera-Mika (Ngaati Awa, Ngaai Tuuhoe, Te Whaanau aa Apanui, Dutch) is a proud South Auckland/Papakura local and a maamaa of four sons (Maaori/Samoan/Dutch). Born and raised in Whakataane, her strong cultural roots shape her commitment to supporting the wellbeing of tamariki, whaanau, and communities. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health and wellbeing sector, Julie is a registered Clinical Psychologist and Kaupapa Maaori researcher, holding a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and completing a Post-doctoral Clinical Fellowship with Brain Research NZ.

Julie advocates for a strategic focus on wellbeing, driving transformational change to enhance oranga whaanau. She demonstrates inclusive values-based leadership, supporting strong connections across multiple system levels and embracing a trust-based partnership approach enabling community-led approaches to achieve meaningful impact.

Julie has contributed to national initiatives and holds leadership roles as a Board Member for Mana Mokopuna Children & Young People’s Commission, the Brainwave Trust, and the Rise & Shine Josiah Mika Foundation. She is Head of the MAS Foundation, co-lead of the Aotearoa Brain Project - Kaupapa Roro o Aotearoa and an Advisory Board Member for Te Pae Whakatere Hawaiki Hou at Sport New Zealand. Her governance experience also includes serving as Chair of Whaanau Oranga Puumau (Maaori Customer Advisory Panel) at ACC, Board Member of the Initial Mental Health & Wellbeing Commission NZ, executive roles within the New Zealand Psychological Society, and various school and community committees.

Julie is eager to continue serving her South Auckland community, where she has dedicated over a decade to clinical work. Her passion for the region extends beyond her professional commitments, reflected in her personal involvement as a long-standing representative of Counties Manukau in touch rugby, managing junior Papakura Sea Eagles Rugby League teams, and playing netball for the Ootara Scorpions, further fuelling her commitment to driving positive change.