New Zealand Tertiary College Program Advisory Committee Chair and honorary fellow of the college, Dr Te Tuhi Robust (Ngāpuhi Nui Tonu, Ngāti Porou), has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit by King Charles for his exceptional contributions to Māori education and community development in the 2025 New Year honours.

Dr Robust’s distinguished career spans more than five decades, during which he has been a tireless advocate for kaupapa Māori education. His leadership has shaped the sector at all levels, from early childhood education to tertiary learning, and his expertise has been sought after in the review and development of Māori educational frameworks across Aotearoa New Zealand.

With influence extending well beyond the classroom, Dr Robust was a founding member of Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, New Zealand’s Māori Centre of Research Excellence, and he has championed initiatives that enable Māori scholars and students to thrive in tertiary education environments. Internationally, his collaborations with institutions such as the University of British Columbia have facilitated meaningful exchanges in indigenous education and research.

Having led and advocated for Māori at NZTC for over 20 years, NZTC CEO, James Ward, paid tribute to Robust’s comprehensive advice to the college.

“Dr Robust’s unwavering commitment to Māori education and his significant contributions to the advancement of indigenous knowledge and culture are truly inspiring. His deep knowledge of tertiary education in New Zealand has contributed to the development and approval of programs at New Zealand Tertiary College,” says Ward.

“We are deeply honoured to have him as part of our NZTC whānau, and this recognition is a testament to the profound impact he has made across Aotearoa and beyond. On behalf of the entire NZTC team, we extend our warmest congratulations to him for this exceptional achievement.”