Top university honour for Tauranga kaumatua

Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere.

A Tauranga kaumatua who has spent decades working for his people is to receive the University of Waikato's highest honour.

Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere MNZM will receive an honorary doctorate in October from the University of Waikato for his contribution to the University over many years.

Read more here: Life of giving earns high award for Morehu

Mr Ngatoko Rahipere's whakapapa extends to two of the principal tribes of the Tauranga Moana region, to Ngati Ranginui, and Ngai Te Rangi, and to Ngati Awa also. His primary hapu affiliations are to Ngai Tamarawaho and Ngati Rangi.

He is widely regarded as an acknowledged leader, an exponent of tribal lore and narratives, a man of mana and a formidable orator. He is a strong advocate of the long-standing relationship between Ngati Ranginui and the Kingitanga.

University of Waikato vice-chancellor Professor Neil Quigley said Mr Ngatoko Rahipere was an example of someone who selflessly gave of his time and skills for the 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 was instrumental in advancing the return of Mauao (Mount Maunganui) to the people and his expertise and knowledge in tikanga and kawa, has ensured the mountain is protected and its cultural integrity is maintained.

Mr Ngatoko Rahipere was the college kaumatua to Tauranga Boys' College - progressing the building of a school marae, he supports Tauranga Girls' College, was central to establishing the partnership between Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation and Ngati Ranginui, supports the Maori Health Runanga, the Christian Education Trust and the Bethlehem Campus and is actively involved with the kaumatua forum of Tauranga City Council.

Professor Quigley said Mr Ngatoko Rahipere had given exemplary service to his community of Tauranga Moana.

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