Māui Pōmare

MauiPomare1899

Maui and Miria Pomare passport application (1930)

Māui Pōmare (1876 – 27 June 1930) was a notable New Zealand Maori health reformer, politician, and statesman. He was a key figure in the improvement of Maori health and living conditions, a member of the New Zealand House of Representatives, and served as a minister in the New Zealand government. Pōmare's contributions to New Zealand society, especially to the Maori community, were significant during the early 20th century.

Early Life

Māui Pōmare was born in the Taranaki region of New Zealand, into the Ngāti Mutunga and Ngāti Toa tribes. His early education was at Te Aute College, where he was influenced by the Te Aute College Students' Association, which aimed to uplift the Maori people through education and health reform.

Medical Career

After his education, Pōmare went on to study medicine, becoming one of the first Maori to qualify as a doctor. He graduated from the American Medical Missionary College in Chicago, Illinois. Upon returning to New Zealand, he was appointed as the Maori Health Officer in the Department of Public Health. In this role, Pōmare initiated significant reforms aimed at improving the health and sanitation conditions of Maori communities, combating the high rates of disease and mortality.

Political Career

Pōmare's success in health reform led to his election to the New Zealand House of Representatives in 1908, representing the Western Maori electorate. He was a member of the Reform Party and held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Health and Minister of the Cook Islands. As a politician, he continued to advocate for the welfare of the Maori people, focusing on land rights, health, and education.

Legacy

Māui Pōmare's legacy is remembered for his dedication to the health and well-being of the Maori people. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Maori Health Nursing Service and played a key role in the passage of the Tohunga Suppression Act 1907, which aimed to stop the practices of tohunga (traditional Maori healers) that were considered harmful. Pōmare Day, celebrated on June 27th, commemorates his contributions to New Zealand society.

Death

Māui Pōmare died on 27 June 1930. His death marked the loss of a pioneering figure in Maori health reform and politics. He is remembered as a visionary leader who worked tirelessly for the betterment of his people.

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