Media release from Public Health Association

Associate Minister of Health Hon Tariana Turia has become the first recipient of a new tohu (award) that will be given each year to a key figure in Maori public health by the Public Health Association (PHA).

The tohu was developed to acknowledge success and achievement in Maori public health and has this year been named Tu Rangatira mo te Ora1 to recognise people who have shown leadership in Hauora development.

Ms Turia received the tohu today at the PHA conference which is being held at Turangawaewae Marae. PHA President Richard Egan said Ms Turia received it for her courage and successes in Maori public health.

"Recently Ms Turia has had a high profile as a Maori health champion, especially for her roles in tobacco control and as the Minister for Whanau Ora. But we are also acknowledging her long history in Maori public health advocacy and development.

"Over many years she has given faith, hope and encouragement to countless individuals and small health provider organisations, so her contribution has been far-reaching and wide."

PHA Maori Caucus member Peter Thomas, who works for Hapai Te Hauora Tapui-Maori Public Health, said there has been considerable development in Maori public health over the last 20 years and that the tohu is a celebration of the whanau and leaders who have been at the forefront of that kaupapa.

"Many Maori leaders in health do not necessarily have health backgrounds, but they have either championed or supported Maori health initiatives. While it is natural for Maori to initiate change, or develop new ways to meet community needs, not everyone gets to hear about them or the successes they achieve. This tohu is also for them.

"We are extremely happy to be making the first presentation at Turangawaewae Marae to pay tribute to the many people from Tainui, such as Te Puea and Te Arikinui Te Atarangi Kahu, who have been at the forefront of Maori health development over the years. We also acknowledge that this award will in future highlight other Maori leaders and other iwi that have been crucial to Maori health development.

"Turangawaewae is a place of national significance to Maori all over the country and a fitting place for us to honour those who have worked hard for the betterment of the health of all Maori."

The PHA has given out an annual Public Health Champion Award to a leading figure in New Zealand Public Health since 1999. This year it was given jointly to husband and wife team Professors Robert Beaglehole and Ruth Bonita. Maori who have received this award in the past include Dr Paratene Ngata, Professor Sir Mason Durie, Dr Papaarangi Reid and Marty Rogers. The new Tu Rangatira mo te Ora tohu has the same status as the Public Health Champion Award but will be reserved specifically for Maori.

Mr Egan says the tohu is also a demonstration of the PHA's commitment to Maori and Maori health development.