New Zealand Labour MP Kiritapu Allan has been recognised for her dedication and contributions to improving the health and wellbeing of wāhine Māori.

Allan was presented with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) Māori Women’s Health Award at a ceremony on Friday 23 June as part of the College’s Annual Scientific Meeting, held in Rotorua.

In 2021, Allan, who is the Minister for Justice, Regional Development and Associate Minister of Transport, shared with the public her brave and personal journey after being diagnosed with cervical cancer, using her platform as an MP to raise awareness about the inequities in the health system for wāhine Māori. She highlighted the significant disparity in survival rates. Her powerful testimony shed light on the urgent need for greater attention to be given to women’s health and equity in Aotearoa.

In presenting the award to Allan, Dr Leigh Duncan, Chair of He Hono Wāhine, said the East Coast MP had displayed great determination.

“Kiri’s unwavering courage, resilience, and determination in the face of her own health challenges are truly inspiring. Her commitment to speaking out about her cervical cancer diagnosis and using her platform to advocate for improved health outcomes for wāhine Māori is commendable. Her leadership and advocacy have had a lasting and positive impact on women’s health in New Zealand, and her efforts will undoubtedly continue to benefit generations of wāhine Māori to come.”