Kingi Kiriona is an orator, a kapa haka exponent, composer, educator, and broadcaster. His observation of Te Reo Māori and Te Ao Māori as a tool for improving the health and well-being of iwi and Māori communities has driven Kingi to realise opportunities for Māori language and culture to be shared, embedded, and recognised through the health system.
In 2023, Kingi was appointed Deputy Chief Executive, Mātauranga Māori at Te Aka Whai Ora, the Māori Health Authority. His role is predicated on promoting hauora Māori solutions based on mātauranga Māori, which includes te reo and tikanga Māori. Accordingly, he provides guidance and insight on how such solutions may be located, supported, and developed across the sector.
He has more than 15 years of experience in the development of te ao Māori-focussed training programmes and in senior leadership and governance roles across the public and private sectors. His knowledge and experience will help lead to a system that is better aligned with Māori health workforce needs and the aspirations of iwi.
Kingi is also a songwriter who has created pieces based on social issues and Māori history. He has produced close to 100 waiata and haka. Some of his pieces have been used as a learning resource for children in schools throughout Aotearoa.
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