Mr Putiani Upoko, of Auckland, QSM, for services to the Pacific community
Putiani Upoko has been the Session Clerk of Otara Pacific Islands Presbyterian Church since 1980 and held several roles, including Cook Island Secretary and Choir Master. As an Elder and Church Leader, he has instigated positive change and maintained unity within the church’s Samoan, Niue and Cook Island groups. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, he acted as the community’s Cook Island representative, engaging with government officials. He has tutored and supported South Auckland students in preparation for the annual ASB Polyfest. Mr Upoko is a tutor of Imene Tuki, a traditional screaming hymn of the Cook Islands, at Tangaroa College.