Born in Hawera and schooled in Taranaki and Auckland, Marty has lived in Whanganui since 1976. He worked for 30 years in the agriculture and fisheries sectors, including 10 years in management, before returning to work for Ngā Rauru Kītahi iwi as its chief executive and chief negotiator. Before becoming the chief executive of Ngāti Ruanui iwi in Hawera Marty was elected to the pre-settlement board of Ngāruahine. In 2014 he returned to Whanganui and was elected chair of Te Kāhui o Rauru Trust until retiring in October 2018.
Marty is currently the chair of Taranaki Iwi Relationship Board, Te Whare Punanga Korero and Te Whakatipuranga Rima Rau Trust. He is a trustee of Tuituia Trust and the Taranaki Maori Trust Board and a Taranaki Maunga negotiator. He is also a trustee at three marae in South Taranaki.
Health equity remains Marty’s passion. He’s also sometimes a road cyclist, musician and a very ordinary golfer.