Dr. Matire Harwood Honored for Exceptional Covid-19 Work with King's Service Order

Dr. Matire Harwood, a Māori health advocate and Auckland University's deputy dean, has been recognized as a Companion of the King's Service Order for her exceptional contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her efforts included advising the New Zealand government and providing clinical care in South Auckland, a region significantly impacted by the pandemic.

The honor, announced on June 4, 2024, as part of the King's Birthday Honours, highlights Dr. Harwood's dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of Māori communities. Her work has been instrumental in addressing health disparities and ensuring effective pandemic response measures.

Dr. Harwood, an Associate Professor and deputy dean of the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Auckland University, also serves as a primary care GP at Papakura Marae. Her multifaceted role has allowed her to directly impact the lives of many in her community, particularly during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr. Harwood's recognition highlights the importance of inclusive and effective healthcare practices, particularly in underserved communities. Her contributions may inspire similar initiatives and policies that prioritize the needs of marginalized groups, leading to better health outcomes and more equitable healthcare systems.

Reflecting on her recognition, Dr. Harwood shared, 'I spoke with my whānau and hoamahi about it and they all said 'about time!' So accepting this also recognises whānau who have to share me with my mahi, and all the Māori community health workers who spend a lot of time outside paid work advocating, delivering and caring, which is often unrecognised. This is as much for all of them as it is for me.'

Dr. Harwood's commitment to Māori-led health initiatives is evident in her work. She stated, 'Māori and our solutions have much to offer everybody. Some examples include our work in stroke, smoking cessation and workforce development. I strongly believe that if we get it right for Māori, everyone benefits.' This philosophy has driven her efforts to create inclusive and effective healthcare solutions.

Born of Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Hine, and Ngāti Rangi ki Moerewa descent, Dr. Harwood has faced numerous challenges in her career, including balancing her responsibilities as a working mother and dealing with hate mail and online trolls. Despite these obstacles, she remains steadfast in her mission to improve Māori health and wellbeing.

Dr. Harwood's recognition as a Companion of the King's Service Order is a tribute to her tireless efforts and the significant impact of her work. Her contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic have not only benefited the Māori community but have also set a precedent for inclusive and effective healthcare practices.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Matire Harwood recognized as Companion of the King's Service Order for Covid-19 pandemic efforts.
• She advised the NZ government and provided clinical care in South Auckland, a region heavily impacted by the pandemic.
• Dr. Harwood's work focuses on improving Māori health and wellbeing, addressing health disparities.
• She is a primary care GP at Papakura Marae and Associate Professor at Auckland University.
• Her recognition highlights the importance of inclusive and effective healthcare practices in underserved communities.