New Year’s Honours recognise service to Pacific Community

  • Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
Pacific Peoples

Pacific Peoples Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga welcomes the New Year’s Honours awarded to people who have served the Pacific community.

“My congratulations go to this year's worthy recipients,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.  “Service to family and the community is one of the core Pacific values. These outstanding individuals have worked for decades to serve and help their communities.”

This year’s recipients include:

MNZM
Ben Taufua, Auckland, for services to the Pacific community.
Pele Walker, Wellington, for services to the Pacific community.
Stan Wolfgramm, Auckland, for services to the arts and Pacific community.

QSM
Rev Tom Etuata, Wellington, for services to the Pacific community.
Afa’ese Manoa, Auckland, for services to the Pacific community.
Tereapii Russell, Upper Hutt, for services to the Pacific community and sport.
Nooareauri Pare, Auckland, for services to Pacific culture and the community.
To’alepai Tautolo, Auckland, for services to sport and the Samoan community.

"These recipients have each made a significant contribution to strengthening their communities,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga. “Their tireless work helps ensure that Pacific peoples maintain links to their culture while being successful members of the wider New Zealand community.

"I hope the achievements of these remarkable people will inspire the new generation of Pacific young people to continue to give generously their time and serve their community."