Rotorua’s Hariata Vercoe has been named a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of her over 40 years of service to Māori health and the community. Vercoe has led the Korowai Aroha Health Centre in Rotorua since 2012 and played a vital role in the centre’s Covid-19 response and vaccination efforts. Her work focuses on improving health outcomes for Māori through a variety of programmes and services.
Vercoe is affiliated with multiple iwi including Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Whakaue, and Te Rarawa. She began her career working in conservation for 20 years before moving into the health sector. The transition came from a desire to contribute more intentionally to Māori wellbeing. She describes health as a complex challenge but one with opportunities for meaningful change.
Under her leadership, Korowai Aroha Health Centre has developed successful health initiatives such as Tāne Takitu Ake for Māori men, respiratory and diabetes services, pregnancy support, and community Māori nursing. She also represents the marae for the Women’s Health League and has participated in research aiming to reduce health inequalities for ageing Māori and their families.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Vercoe and her team managed the vaccination rollout, facing many challenges while working to ensure their community received care in a culturally respectful way. The vaccination effort involved overcoming barriers and building trust within the Māori population.
The honour she received is shared with the many colleagues and whānau who have supported her work throughout her career. Vercoe also holds roles as a trustee of the Rotorua Community Hospice Board and a member of the Nursing Council of New Zealand. Her lifelong commitment to caring for others reflects the values she was raised with.
Vercoe’s work continues to shape the future of Māori health services. Ongoing efforts to address disparities in health outcomes remain a priority for her and the organisations she works with. These improvements not only benefit Māori communities but also contribute to wider social and economic development.
