Eighteen Māori Honoured in New Year’s Awards for 2026

Eighteen Māori individuals have been honoured in the New Year Honours list for 2026, a recognition highlighting their contributions to various fields in New Zealand. Among the recipients are Companions, Officers, and Members of the prestigious New Zealand Order of Merit, alongside those awarded the King’s Service Order and Medal. The Minister for Māori Development, Tama Potaka, lauded the achievements of these individuals, emphasizing their commitment to Māori advancement and community leadership throughout Aotearoa.

Potaka expressed his admiration for those working within the iwi, hapū, and whānau to preserve and uplift Māori identity and traditions. “I’m particularly inspired and motivated by those Māori leaders who are doing wonderful work to maintain our traditions and our tikanga through to our mokopuna,” he stated. He acknowledged the collective effort behind these recognitions. “While individual achievements are celebrated, it is essential to recognize the families and communities that support them,” he added.

Prominent Figures Recognised for Their Contributions

Among the distinguished recipients is Professor Thomas Charles Roa, who has been appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to Māori language and education. As a Professor of Māori and Indigenous Studies at the University of Waikato, Roa has been a pivotal figure in the promotion of te reo Māori and was a founder of the Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori movement in the 1970s. He expressed gratitude for the recognition but emphasized that many others deserve acknowledgment for their roles in his journey.

“There are so many people who have contributed to my path,” Roa remarked. “I enjoy that saying, ‘I see as far as I can see because I stand on the shoulders of giants.’ I have had the privilege of learning from remarkable individuals.”

Other notable honourees include Rod Drury, who has been named a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contributions to business and technology, and Leith Pirika Comer, recognised as a Companion for his services to Māori governance and education. Rachel Emere Taulelei also received a Companion honour for her work in business and Māori governance.

Acknowledging Diverse Contributions

Several individuals have been recognised for their dedication to specific sectors. Professor Beverley-Anne Lawton was honoured as a Companion for her services to women’s health, while Christina Cowan became an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her support of Māori, particularly those with visual impairments.

In the arts community, Te Warihi Kokowai Hetaraka received an Officer honour for his contributions to Māori art, and Waihoroi Paraone Hoterene was similarly honoured for his efforts in Māori language education. Other recipients include Roger Bruce Douglas Drummond, who became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to rugby and Māori, and Dr. Lorraine Shirley Eade, awarded for her contributions to Māori governance and community service.

The New Year Honours list for 2026 not only celebrates individual achievements but also reflects the ongoing commitment to the Māori community and heritage in New Zealand. As Potaka noted, this recognition serves as a moment to reflect and express gratitude for those who contribute to the collective strength of New Zealand society.