Taka Mackey, of Gisborne, MNZM, for services to martial arts and Māori
Taka Mackey is a former New Zealand representative martial arts athlete. He founded the Rangataua o Aotearoa Māori Martial and Cultural Arts (ROA) club in Gisborne and has led the club for 43 years. ROA was formed as an avenue for young Māori to be included in community events, with fees kept low and classes primarily taught in te Reo Māori. Mr Mackey is Vice President of the New Zealand Muay Thai Federation. He oversees the security team for the Rhythm and Vines music festival, with proceeds enabling his students to attend international tournaments. Mr Mackey played rugby for Poverty Bay and Horouta and coached the Horouta premier team.