Pacific voices shine in New Year Honours

Thirteen people of Pacific descent have been recognised in the 2025 New Year Honours list, with some receiving praise for their support of survivors in state and faith-based care.

Among the recipients were Moeapulu Frances Eileen Tagaloa and Rūpene Paul Amato, who were appointed Companions of the King’s Service Order (KSO) for services to survivors of abuse in care.

Debra Sorensen, Chief Executive of the Pasifika Medical Association, was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for services to Pacific health.

Albert Puhirake Ihaka and Te Tuhi Robust were also appointed ONZM. Ihaka for services to Māori and governance, and Robust for services to Māori and education.

Two Pacific leaders were made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM). Iosefo Joseph Fa'afiu for services to mental health, youth and the Pacific community, as well as Anne Marie Fitisemanu for services to business and contributions to the Māori and Pacific business communities.

Six people of Pacific descent were awarded the King's Service Medal (KSM):

• Hans Allen Key for services to Pacific communities

• Vaine Puapii Elia for services to the Cook Islands community

• Teremoana Terepai for services to Pacific communities

• Peter Leilua and Tiliilagi (Tili) Leilua, both for services to the community, particularly youth and Pacific peoples

• Rouruina Emile-Brown for services to the Cook Islands community.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon congratulated all 190 recipients of the 2025 New Year Honours list.

“I would also like to make special mention that this Honours list includes some of those who fought for others who suffered abuse in care," he said.

"The courage it takes to fight for justice after suffering so much themselves is not only deserving of an honour but needs acknowledging.”

The Auckland event for the government’s formal apology to survivors last month. Photo /PMN News/Ala Vailala.

Lead Coordination Minister for the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care, Erica Stanford, commended honourees for “making survivor voices heard and holding the Crown to account”.

“The people honoured today continue to remind us of the remarkable strength and bravery from the many who should never have suffered in state and faith-based care.”

According to the Royal Commission’s findings, only five per cent of survivors who came forward were Pacific, underscoring the barriers preventing many from speaking out.

Tagaloa expressed deep gratitude saying “it’s such an honour”, receiving the recognition on behalf of the many survivors impacted.

Her role on the Survivor Advisory Group of Experts and the Survivor Experiences Service Board helped shape a survivor-led path to healing.

Fellow Companion of the King’s Service Order, Rūpene Amato, recalled the difficulty men face in coming forward, highlighting how “sharing stories allows other people to share as well”.

He dedicated his honour to survivors who have “passed away or who are still fighting the fight” and called himself “a warrior for social justice”.

The annual New Year Honours List recognises outstanding service and achievement by individuals in New Zealand. Published at the start of each year, it awards titles and distinctions on behalf of the reigning monarch based on recommendations from the Prime Minister and other advisors.

The honours span the sectors of community service, arts, business, sports, or philanthropy. Those recognised may receive knighthoods, damehoods, or admission into orders of merit.

Keep up-to-date at pmn.co.nz for more on the 2025 New Year Honours List.