Rakihia grew up on Tuahiwi Pā, North Canterbury, of Ngāi Tahu descent with whakapapa links to multiple rūnanga.

Throughout his career he has held a diverse range of leadership, management and operational roles.

Rakihia’s current role as Group Head covers a broad range of kaupapa including strategy, protection and advancement of Ngāi Tahu Treaty Settlements, legislative reform, litigation, rights and interest, communications, and economic/commercial opportunities and development.