March 21, 2025

Bev Lawton Named 2025 New Zealander of Year

Atereano Mateariki Posted On March 21, 2025

Ngāti Porou’s Professor Bev Lawton has been named the 2025 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, recognised for her groundbreaking work in women’s health.

Founder of Te Tātai Hauora o Hine, she led the push for HPV self-testing—making Aotearoa the first high-income country to adopt this life-saving screening.

At last night’s gala in Tāmaki Makaurau, seven extraordinary New Zealanders were also honoured.

Award patron Miriama Kamo says these recipients “keep hope alive” through their dedication to others.

Professor Lawton’s advocacy continues to transform healthcare, tackling inequities and improving outcomes for wāhine Māori and all women across Aotearoa.

Other top winners include the University of Canterbury Young New Zealander of the Year Namulau‘ulu Nu’uali’i Eteroa Lafaele and Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year artist Elizabeth Ellis.