Elder's tireless work lands honour

Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere. Photo / Claire De Barr

A respected Tauranga kaumatua is being recognised for the decades of his life spent working for his people and his "remarkable achievements".

Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere, 89, will receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Waikato this month for his contribution to the university over many years.

Mr Ngatoko Rahipere, of Ngati Ranginui, Ngai Te Rangi and Ngati Awa descent, found out about the honour last week.

While it came "out of the blue", he said he was proud and humbled to be acknowledged in this way.

Mr Ngatoko Rahipere said he had a long association with the university through his work with teaching and supporting young people.

He believed the honorary doctorate would open doors for himself, his family and those he represented in Tauranga.

"They are the ones that are up in the air about it and egging me on. I feel very humble and proud about this. In a way, I think I've been fortunate in that respect, with recognition."

Mr Ngatoko Rahipere was a recipient of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2007 and is a member of the Tauranga City Council kaumatua forum.

Although edging 90, Mr Ngatoko Rahipere has not quite retired and still does a lot of work in the community.

"There's so many things to do within my subtribe and my marae. The work never ends. It's something I like doing."

He has fostered relationships with Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council and its councillors over many years and is often called on for advice relating to local knowledge and tikanga.

University of Waikato vice-chancellor Professor Neil Quigley said Mr Ngatoko Rahipere was an example of someone who selflessly gave his time and skills for public good.

"He is passionate about the role and power of education to enable people to meet their aspirations and has led many initiatives linked to the University of Waikato, including the establishment of the Maharaia Winiata Research Institute in Tauranga," he said.

"He was deeply involved in the Te Kotahitanga research programme established under our Faculty of Education and has led by example in many areas - what he has achieved is remarkable." Mr Ngatoko Rahipere

is widely regarded as an acknowledged leader, an exponent of tribal lore and narratives, a man of mana and a formidable orator.

Mr Ngatoko Rahipere will receive his honorary doctorate at the University of Waikato's graduation ceremony in Hamilton on October 20.