A New Zealander with strong ties to the Cook Islands says he is humbled to be recognised in the New Year Honours list for his contribution to Pacific health.
Dr Kiki Maoate, who is a pediatric surgeon at Christchurch Hospital, has been named an officer of the Order of New Zealand Merit.
Among his many roles, Dr Maoate is also the chair of the Pasifika Medical Association and an executive member of the Cook Islands Health Network.
Dr Maoate says he was surprised to be included in the honours list.
All I can say is - I thank everybody who thought that I deserved this award and I hope that I can continue to contribute in some way, you know, continue to help individuals, organisations or even individual countries to progress forward in whatever way I can.
Dr Kiki Maoate is also a board member of Pacific Trust Canterbury.
