Te ORA was proud to attend Te Rā o Tā Māui Pōmare, honouring Aotearoa’s first Māori doctor and Health Minister. This year’s event carried strong political weight, with many speakers openly rejecting recent Government actions seen to undermine Māori health gains — particularly the disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora.

Te ORA was represented by members and speakers including Dr Jason Tuhoe, Dr Wiremu MacFater, and Professor Sir Richard Faull. Their kōrero focused on the legacy of Tā Māui Pōmare, the importance of maintaining Māori-led health services, and the urgent need to protect progress made in Māori health workforce development.

A strong contingent of Māori medical students and doctors in training attended, signalling the growing strength of the Māori health workforce.

Te ORA’s presence reaffirmed our commitment to Māori health equity, Tiriti-based leadership, and the continued support of our Māori health professionals. This hui was a reminder that Māori health is deeply political – and that our advocacy and leadership remain essential.