Tyson Schmidt

Citation Speech for Tyson Schmidt

Tyson Schmidt has a large presence in the Manawatū community working with local organisations. Whether its governance, fiscal advice or networking, Tyson has the expertise and always makes the time to share it.

After stint in Wellington studying Architecture, Tyson returned to his roots in Feilding with his partner to raise their daughter. His journey of volunteering for local organisations in the Manawatū spans over a decade, sharing his expertise on boards and ensuring continuous improvement for the community.

Tyson is passionate about supporting local organisations and facilities that give back to the community. He actively supported Centre Point Theatre as a Board Member and Chair from 2012-2020, involved in the building refurbishment and providing fiscal support, to help the theatre get back on track after tough times. He served on the Te Manawa Museum’s Trust from 2015 to 2021, where he reviewed policies and help navigate challenging periods to ensure responsible financial management.

Significantly, Tyson supported the museum’s building redesign, championing accessibility and inclusion initiatives throughout the process. Tyson has supported Manawatū Community Trust with building plans for Feilding Health Centre, the Clevely centre, and housing plans until 2050 – his vision and motivation passed on to others for the future action.

During his five years at UCOL, Tyson built strong networks across industries, connecting ideas with local talent. In 2017, he brought that same energy to the Feilding Oroua Rotary Club, helping to reimagine their ‘Fantasy in Lights’ event. From project management, fundraising, and rallying support from UCOL tutors and students, Tyson played a key role in its success, turning it into a significant source of funding for the local community.

Tyson’s passion for youth development is woven into everything he does. He had been collaborating with former councillor Barbara Cameron on a children's health project in Palmerston North when, in 2022, Barbara ‘voluntold’ him into joining the St Dominic’s School for the Deaf Trust Board.

To this day, Tyson serves as both Secretary and Treasurer. The Trust provides education, assistance and advancement to those who are deaf or have another impairment in New Zealand and the South Pacific. Described as an action man, Tyson has assisted the trust to reach their post COVID aspirations – meeting with school boards, teachers and principals to raise awareness of the support available. He was also Chair of the Audit and Risk committee for Youthline Central North Island for two years, a pivotal role ensuring our rangatahi continue to have free support services in times of need.

The many testimonials received speak to Tyson’s embodiment of manaakitanga and kotahitanga, with his work showcasing tikanga Māori. Tyson has held the Treasurer role for the Ngā Aho Māori Designer Trust since 2013. The nationwide network of 200-250 Māori designers ranges across all ages hosting conferences, showcasing local talent and promoting Māori design. Since 2022, he has been a generous supporter of Kauwhata Marae, offering expertise for their Marae Development Plan, strengthening governance and planning, sharing investment strategies and supporting Ngāti Kauwhata as an iwi.

Tyson credits his folks for raising him with the values he lives by. Driven and hands-on, he loves to be kept busy. But above all, he hopes to inspire his daughter through his actions and achievements. He doesn’t seek recognition but believes in uplifting the community that serves you.

In many regards, Tyson is the glue making things happen for these local organisations. His future-forward thinking is a gift of continuous improvement for the community. Tyson, your generosity, volunteering your leadership and professional expertise does not go unseen. Thank you for all your mahi. Congratulations.