Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu
Rawiri Blundell is a transformative Māori health leader, researcher, and equity strategist whose mahi is grounded in whānau, whakapapa, and justice. With over 20 years of experience across the health sector, Rawiri has championed Māori-led solutions that prioritise mana motuhake, cultural safety, and system change.
Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Porou, Kāi Tahu
Dr Nadine Houia-Ashwell is a trailblazing Māori doctor and health researcher whose leadership is grounded in whakapapa, shaped by lived experience, and driven by a deep love for whānau.
Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Ngāti Porou, Te Rarawa, Te Arawa, Ngāti Ruanui
MBChB, FRANZCOG
Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri
Dr Tania Huria exemplifies mana wahine through her relentless pursuit of equity and transformational change in Māori healthcare.
Rongowhakaata, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri
For over 25 years, Reweti Ropiha has led Turanga Health as the Chief Executive, transforming it from a small health provider into a regional powerhouse serving over 3,000 whānau across Tairāwhiti. His vision has always been clear: to take healthcare to the people, rather than waiting for the people to come to healthcare.
Te Atiawa, Taranaki
Dr Rawiri Keenan is a leading Māori GP, academic, and health equity advocate dedicated to transforming Aotearoa’s primary care landscape.
Waitaha, Kāti Māmoe, Kāi Tahu
Katrina Pōtiki Bryant is a pioneering Māori physiotherapist, educator, and researcher whose career spans more than 30 years in Hauora Māori.
Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Te Arawa, Ngāti Raukawa
Te Miri Rangi is a powerful example of what it means to lead with whakapapa, purpose, and cultural integrity in the health system.
Te Aitanga a Māhaki, Ngāti Porou, Te Whānau a Kai
e Rato Leach is an emerging leader in Māori health, dedicated to serving his community and empowering Māori youth through education and mentorship.
Kāi Tahu, Kāti Mamoe, Waitaha
Dr Matt Wheeler is a leading Māori haematologist, physician, and tireless advocate for health equity, whose influence spans medicine, policy, and national discourse.