The New Zealand Government has released its 2026 King’s Birthday Honours list, recognizing outstanding contributions across Māori development, community leadership, language revitalization, and cultural preservation.
Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua – Those who lead give sight to those who follow, those who follow give life to those who lead.
Māori recipients recognized in the King’s Birthday Honors 2026 reflect decades of leadership, service, and commitment to strengthening Māori communities, language, education, and governance, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says.
“These recipients represent the strength of Māori leadership across many fields, including education, governance, language revitalization, and community development,” Mr Potaka says. “Their service reflects a deep commitment to whānau, hapū, iwi, and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Māori honored this year include Companions, Officers, and Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit whose mahi has made a lasting contribution to the country.
Emeritus Professor Pare Keiha – Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM)
“Professor Pare Keiha has dedicated decades to advancing Māori education and leadership, helping shape pathways for Māori achievement within tertiary education and governance. His contribution to Māori development, language, and academic excellence has influenced generations of tauira, educators, and leaders across Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Rahera Shortland – Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM)
“Rahera Shortland has played a significant role in the revitalization of te reo Māori through education, teaching, and community leadership over many decades. Her contribution through Te Ātaarangi and Māori language revitalization has strengthened intergenerational transmission of te reo Māori both here and internationally.”
Terry Nicholas – Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM)
“Terry Nicholas has provided long-standing leadership within Murihiku, supporting Māori development, governance capability, and opportunities for future generations. His work has strengthened community wellbeing, regional development, and pathways for rangatahi leadership and participation.”
“While it is my privilege to acknowledge these recipients, they also represent the many Māori who quietly contribute every day to strengthening Aotearoa New Zealand and supporting future generations.”
About King’s Birthday Honours
The King’s Birthday Honours are one of New Zealand’s two annual honors lists, released each June to mark the monarch’s official birthday. They recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation across fields such as language revitalization, education, public service, cultural preservation, science, and community leadership. Recipients are appointed to orders including CNZM, ONZM, and MNZM, reflecting varying levels of national service and impact. The list is issued by the New Zealand Government and formally conferred by the Governor‑General on behalf of the King, reinforcing the Crown’s role in acknowledging civic and cultural excellence.
