Our Trustees

Meet the three trustees that administer the WLG Community & Environment Fund.

Community Trustee – Leila Martley

Leila is an active member of the Strathmore Park Residents Association who for many years was also an active and committed volunteer with Kahurangi Friends and Kahurangi School.

She is an experienced researcher, policy analyst, project manager, and communicator who works for both local and central government – and has developed and contributed to a range of policies, including in social housing, home ownership, consumer policy, health and wellbeing.

Leila considers all her experience will help her bring insight, empathy, and fairness to her role as the Community Trustee Representative.

Independent Trustee – Sarah Free

Sarah was first elected as a Motukairangi/Eastern Ward councillor in 2013 and served as Deputy Mayor from 2019-2022. In her time on Council, she has held the portfolio for community infrastructure (including during the planning stages of Johnsonville's Waitohi Library) and the portfolio for walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure. She has also chaired the Council's Grants Subcommittee and served as a trustee on the Wellington Zoo board. Sarah is currently Chair of the Regulatory Process Committee and the councillor representative to the Pacific Advisory Group.

Wellington Airport Trustee – Matthew Palliser

Matthew is the Head of Operations at Wellington Airport. He has over 15 years of experience in Airport Operations in both Auckland and Wellington including four years on the Auckland Airport Noise Committee. Matt has developed a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing communities in their efforts to promote growth while preserving the natural environment. Matt brings strong stakeholder engagement, project management, and budgeting skills to his role as a Trustee.