Māori Development Minister, Tama Potaka says the Māori recipients in the New Year 2026 Honours list have each demonstrated deep and enduring commitment to Māori advancement and community leadership across Aotearoa New Zealand.
The list of Māori recipients includes Companions, Officers and Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit, as well as recipients of the King’s Service Order and King’s Service Medal.
Technology entrepreneur, Rod Drury (pictured), becomes a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to business, the technology industry and philanthropy.
“Rod Drury has played a significant role in building New Zealand’s technology sector, helping establish globally successful companies from Aotearoa New Zealand and supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth,” said Mr Potaka.
Leith Pirika Comer becomes a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori, governance and education.
“Leith Comer has made a sustained contribution to Māori leadership and education, with mahi that strengthens governance capability and supports Māori success across generations,” said the Minister.
Professor Thomas Charles Roa becomes a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori language and education.
Minister Potaka said Prof Roa had been a tireless advocate for te reo Māori, “with leadership that has shaped Māori language revitalisation and educational excellence nationally”.
Rachel Emere Taulelei becomes a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to business, Māori and governance.
Christina Cowan becomes an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori, particularly blind and low vision people.
Te Warihi Kokowai Hetaraka becomes an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and art.
Waihoroi Paraone Hoterene becomes an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and Māori language education.
“Waihoroi Hoterene has been a powerful contributor to Māori language education, supporting intergenerational transmission of te reo Māori,” said Mr Potaka.
Roger Bruce Douglas Drummond becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to rugby and Māori.
The Minister said Mr Drummond’s contribution reflects the important role sport plays in Māori leadership, wellbeing and community connection.
Dr Lorraine Shirley Eade becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori, governance and the community.
“Dr Eade’s governance and community leadership has strengthened Māori participation and representation across multiple sectors.”
Hori Te Moanaroa Parata becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to conservation and Māori.
“Hori Parata’s work reflects the deep connection between Māori and the natural environment, advancing conservation outcomes grounded in tikanga and kaitiakitanga.”
Andrew Ruawhitu Pokaia (Pāpā Ruawhitu) becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and education.
Arihia Amiria Stirling becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to education and Māori.
Gail Henrietta Maria Thompson becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and conservation.
Helena Audrey Tuteao becomes a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to people with disabilities and Māori.
Mark Joseph Harawira becomes a Companion of the King’s Service Order for services to Māori education, arts and conservation.
Bonita Joanne Bigham receives the King’s Service Medal for services to local government and Māori.
“Bonita Bigham’s service highlights the vital role Māori leadership plays within local government and community decision-making.”
“While it is my privilege to highlight the mahi of these recipients, they are part of a wider group of New Zealanders whose service strengthens our communities.
“Māori leadership continues to play a critical role in shaping a strong, inclusive and resilient Aotearoa New Zealand,” Mr Potaka says.
