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Thirty years of working for his iwi has earned a knighthood for Matiu Rei from Ngati Toa Rangatira.
He has led the Porirua-based tribe’s treaty claim team since 1986 and became executive director of its runanga in 1989.
It now runs extensive programmes of health and disability services and other social and economic programmes.
He also served a term as chair of the Maori fisheries settlement trust Te Ohu Kaimoana.
Two leading Maori academics were made Companions of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Otago University professor of Maori health John Broughton was made a Companions of the New Zealand Order of Merit for service to Maori and the arts.
Waikato University Professor Pou Temara, and expert in te reo Maori, tikanga and mau rakau, was also made a companion.
New Officers of the Order include former Ngai Tahu chair Charlie Crofts, Rangitane o Manawatu negotiator Danielle Harris, conservationist Kevin Prime of Ngati Hine and scientist Dr Charlotte Severne from Tuwharetoa.
Christchurch urban Maori advocate Norman Dewes was made a member of the Order, along with Rotorua health worker Hariata Paikea, environmentalist Tina Porou of Turangi, language advocate Rahera Shortland, former Ngapuhi chief executive Teresa Tepania-Ashton and Gisborne doctor Peetikuia Bessie Wainui.
Copyright © 2016, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com
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