Pasifika peoples from across the country have been honoured in the New Zealand Royal New Year Honours List 2026 for their contribution and achievements for their community.
177 recipients received the King’s Honours.
Congratulations to the following Pasifika recipients:
Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit MNZ
Former All Black great Eroni Clarke for services to the Pacific community, rugby leadership and his work in mental health services.
Professor Tracie Mafileʻo for services to Pacific and tertiary education. The internationally recognised academic has been involved in the fields of social work, Pacific education, and community development for more than 30 years.
Mrs Mokafetu also known as Matafetu Smith, for services to Pacific art, has been involved with the Pacific community, particularly with the innovation of weaving in New Zealand since 1984.
Jade Carlo Farrar for services to people with disabilities and the Pacific community has been a prominent leader and advocate in the New Zealand disability sector. Jade was also an active member of I Lead, a network for young disabled people, and later the Faiva Ora leadership group, facilitated by Le va.
Recipients for the King’s Service Medal KSM
Sailauama Cheryl Talamaivao for services to the Pacific community and education, has worked extensively across the disability, mental health, justice and welfare sectors with a range of agencies and with volunteer boards and committees.
Mrs Enatuleni Ikitoa Polima, for services to the Niuean community, is a staunch leader and advocate who has significantly contributed to the Niuean community.
In 2000, she established Vagahau Niue Trust with other Niuean teachers, travelling nationally to help revive and maintain the Niuean language.
Aere Anne Nicholas for services to the community is active particularly in South Auckland, promoting local initiatives and demonstrating service, leadership and commitment to community welfare.
Reverend Wayne Toleafoa, for services to Pacific communities has been dedicated to social justice and empowering Pacific communities since the 1970s. Reverend Toleafoa continues his advocacy work with the Polynesian Panthers, working for social change for Pacific communities in the face of media bias and institutional racism.
Congratulations to all recipients for the New Year Honours List 2026
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