Ms Janice Kuka, of Tauranga, MNZM for services to Māori health
Ms Janice Kuka (Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi Te Rangi) has been a leading advocate for Māori healthcare. She helped establish Kaupapa Māori services at Tauranga Hospital, including Māori nursing wards and mental health services. She is Managing Director of Ngā Mataapuna Oranga, a Māori Primary Health Organisation (PHO) and Whānau Ora Hub, which provide healthcare, social services, and cultural support to approximately 30,000 people. During the COVID-19 epidemic, she co-ordinated funding for whānau and communities, and developed mobile clinics. She is a member of the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation, and Chair of Turuki Health Care, Te Manu Toroa, and Pirirākau Hauora. Ms Kuka has contributed to Waitangi Tribunal enquiries, representing Māori PHOs and advocating for Māori-led healthcare.