Michael Naera is a respected leader whose journey is deeply rooted in service to his people, embodying humility, resilience, and unwavering commitment. As a son, brother, father, uncle, and proud grandfather, Michael’s leadership reflects the values of whānau, hapū, and iwi as he works tirelessly to uplift Māori health and well-being.
Michael has built a distinguished career across health, social services, education, and justice. His roles demonstrate a steadfast dedication to empowering Māori communities[MW1] :
- Rotorua Hospital– Hunga Manaaki (2000–2012) For 12 years, Michael led the Māori Health team, Hunga Manaaki. In this role, he advised on iwi partnerships, patient care, and the implementation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. He was instrumental in developing culturally responsive healthcare models for Māori patients and their whānau.
- Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Pikiao Trust (2009–2019) As Project Lead for the Kia Piki te Ora Kaupapa Māori Suicide Prevention programme, Michael’s work spanned local and national contexts. His contributions included advising on national policies and leading initiatives to reduce suicide rates among Māori.
- World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference (Board Member, 2016–Present) Michael collaborates with global Indigenous leaders, championing Indigenous approaches to suicide prevention. He has represented Aotearoa at conferences in Australia, Canada, and most recently, with the Seneca Nation in 2024 inthe USA, advocating for unity and collaboration through the Tūramarama Declaration authored by Sir Mason Durie. Michael’s commitment to this kaupapa is driven by a passion for collaborative action, “I am honoured to work alongside some great minds and hearts for this kaupapa. Suicide prevention should matter to everyone as it affects multiple communities and individuals annually.”
- Principal Advisor Suicide Prevention Te Aka Whai Ora Māori Health Authority
- Principal Advisor – Suicide Prevention, Hauora Māori Service Michael integrates a kaupapa Māori approach into Oranga Hinengaro, the mental health arm of Hauora Māori Service, leading efforts to address suicide prevention.
- Chair, Te Mana Hauora o Te Arawa Driving initiatives that prioritize holistic health and well-being for Te Arawa iwi.
- Board Member, Tiki te Kohu Land Trust Supporting whenua stewardship and sustainable development for iwi.
Michael is near to completing a PhD in Māori Studies at Massey University, focusing on Māori suicide prevention, further solidifying his expertise in this critical area. His dedication to mātauranga Māori is reflected in his training as a Tit Tar specialist, practicing the traditional art of bone setting passed down through generations of his whānau.
Michael’s work has influenced national and international strategies for Māori health and well-being. Notable achievements include:
- Co-authoring frameworks such as the Tūramarama ki te Ora National Māori Strategy for Addressing Suicide, Nōku te Ao: Sovereignty of the Mind, and the First Nations Wellbeing Statement at the 2017 World Congress on Public Health.
- Advocating for the international endorsement of the Tūramarama Declaration, promoting Indigenous-led solutions to suicide prevention and well-being.
Michael’s leadership ensures that suicide prevention strategies reflect the lived realities and aspirations of Māori communities. His advocacy bridges traditional Māori values with contemporary health practices, safeguarding cultural integrity in service delivery.
Representing Ngāti Uenukukōpako, Ngāti Pikiao, and Ngāti Whakaue, Michael is guided by his kaumātua and whānau. As a trusted speaker for Te Arawa, his leadership reflects the collective aspirations of his people and the principles of Te Ao Māori.
For Michael, leadership is earned through service and dedication. His vision is to foster a future where Māori health thrives, and the voices of whānau, hapū, and iwi shape solutions to the challenges they face. His work in suicide prevention, Indigenous well-being, and traditional healing continues to inspire and empower those he serves.
Michael Naera exemplifies rangatiratanga—a leader deeply committed to the betterment of his people and the preservation of mātauranga Māori. His contributions leave an enduring legacy for future generations.
Links
Amohia Te Waiora – we’re stronger without alcohol Re-energising our wairua Video
University of Western Australia Research Week Michael Naera Profile (2017)
Analysis and Policy Observatory Nōku te Ao: sovereignty of the Māori mind
Mapihi Raharuhi 2017
Updated 31 December 2024
