Dr Stacy-Ria Harlee Te Kurapa-King, born in Tūranga-nui-a-Kiwa (Gisborne) and raised in Waikato, embodies a profound commitment to advancing Māori health and well-being. Her upbringing was deeply rooted in Te Ao Māori, with Te Reo Māori as her first language, and active participation in kapa haka and marae life. These experiences instilled in her the values of discipline, manaakitanga, aroha, and a dedication to excellence.

Excelling in science during her high school years, particularly in chemistry, biology, and physics, Stacy-Ria was encouraged by her mother to consider a career in medicine—a path that initially seemed distant due to the scarcity of Māori representation in the field. Overcoming these challenges, she pursued and completed a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, officially becoming a tākuta (doctor) in December 2024.

"I had a very whānau-oriented upbringing, always encouraged to give everything a go and to be proud to be Māori,” says Stacy-Ria. “As the eldest child and moko in my family, I felt a responsibility to set a benchmark for my siblings, showing them what’s possible.” – Dr Stacy-Ria Harlee Te Kurap-King

Throughout her academic journey, Stacy-Ria was actively involved in initiatives such as Whakapiki Ake that engages with rangatahi Māori enrolled in secondary schools to promote health as a career and the Māori and Pacific Admission Scheme (MAPAS) at The University of Auckland. Both provided crucial support, and deepened her understanding of systemic health inequities affecting Māori and Pacific communities. This awareness fuelled her passion to effect meaningful change within the healthcare system.

 "That was when I found my ‘why.’ Learning about these injustices fuelled my passion to make a difference." – Dr Stacy-Ria Harlee Te Kurapa-King

In August 2024, Stacy-Ria received her moko kauae from renowned artist Tā Derek Lardelli, symbolising her unwavering commitment to her whakapapa and Māoritanga. This significant event was shared with her younger sister, Peata, who also received her moko kauae on the same day, surrounded by the support and love of their whānau.

Beginning her medical career in January 2025 at Middlemore Hospital in South Auckland, Stacy-Ria is dedicated to creating culturally safe and inclusive spaces for Māori and Pacific patients. Her initial role as a junior doctor in psychiatry reflects her commitment to addressing mental health challenges within her community. Looking ahead, she aspires to return to Gisborne to serve her people directly, bringing aroha and manaakitanga into the health system to tackle health inequities collaboratively.

Beyond her medical pursuits, Stacy-Ria is a passionate kaihaka and member of the champion kapa haka team, Te Waka Huia.  Stacey performed at Te Matatini 2025, Aotearoa’s premier Indigenous performing arts festival, and is now preparing for the Tamaki Regionals to be held in 2026l

Kapa haka has been instrumental in teaching her resilience, balance, and the importance of whānau and connection - values she seamlessly integrates into her everyday life. 

Dr Stacy-Ria Harlee Te Kurapa-King exemplifies the integration of cultural heritage and professional excellence. Her journey from a Māori-speaking upbringing to becoming a medical doctor and cultural practitioner serves as an inspiring testament to her dedication to her whānau, hapū, iwi, and the broader Māori community.