Elected Member | David Perano | Chair

Elected to the board in June 2022, David has over 20 years of experience in Sales and Business Development, focusing on raw materials for manufacturers in New Zealand. Previous governance experience in his work with the Surface Coatings Association of New Zealand (SCANZ) has prepared him for his position with NorthArt. In addition, David has a technical appreciation of materiality in visual arts. He is an avid consumer of art across the many spaces in Tāmaki Makaurau and Aotearoa.

Living locally in Birkenhead with his wife and young family, he is keen to further the practice and appreciation of visual arts in Kaipātiki.

Elected Member | Shahzad Saleem | Treasurer

Shahzad has been a committee member at NorthArt since May 2024. He brings diverse leadership and governance experience to the organisation. Shahzad is a financial strategist who is appreciated for his bespoke approach, drawing from global experience in analysing and advising organisations of all sizes across different industries. He is a Chartered Accountant, holds a CFA designation, and recently completed an MBA from Otago Business School. Shahzad's inclusive approach fosters a culture of accountability and excellence. He believes in optimising rewards at all levels - personal, professional, and societal - and recognises art as a vital conduit and catalyst.

Elected Member | Noori Zehab |

Originally from Iran, Noori has been a proud resident of Northcote for 18 years and am a mother to two wonderful daughters. She holds a BA in Psychology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Rehabilitation, and a Master's in Management, all from Massey University in Auckland. Noori’s professional career has been anchored in the health sector, where she has predominantly held executive roles, including conducting research on emotional exhaustion among care workers in Auckland's mental health sector. As a painter, she has channeled my life experiences into art,. Through her involvement in she strives to give back to the community that has shaped her, reflecting the journey and collective stories of those around her. Noori’s commitment to art is not just a personal passion but a way to contribute to and enrich the community that has nurtured her.

Co-opted Member | Ollie Sutton |

Ollie was co-opted to the Northart Board in September 2025. He previously served on the Northart Board, and is delighted to be involved again. Ollie has a background as a professional photographer, a history of involvement in performing arts and theatre, and is now a practicing lawyer. He has lived in Northcote since 2020 with his wife and two daughters, and loves the area and all it has to offer. 

Ollie is particularly excited for the opportunity to be involved with the creative arts and to strengthen community ties.

To contact or enquire about joining our Governance Committee please email studio@northart.co.nz

Board Alumni: 

NORTHART is thankful to our previous board members for their time and dedication to the gallery.

Chairperson - Rudy Birzin, Leonard Bell

Treasurer - Roger Brown

Elected Members - Trish Northey, Leon Tan, Lindsay Waugh, Hannah Owen, Grace Alty, Moira Seddon, Glen Armstrong, Stu Gray.

Co-opted Members - Naomi Bell