MEDIA STATEMENT
Wednesday 4 September 2013
Maori Party congratulates Maualaivao Emeritus Professor Albert Wendt
The Maori Party are extending our congratulations to Maualaivao Emeritus Professor Albert Wendt, who was today invested,
and is now the first Samoan, and Pacific representative to receive New Zealand’s highest honour, the Order of New
Zealand.
Maori Party Co-Leader Te Ururoa Flavell said “we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Emeritus Professor Albert
Wendt, whose writings, teachings and leadership have contributed to the fabric of cultural diversity here in Aotearoa,
and earned international recognition for a man who has always worked hard to advance the aspirations of Pasifika
peoples.”
“He was awarded an Order of Merit for Services to Literature and Education by the Government of Samoa in 1994, and a New
Zealand Queens Birthday honour in 2001. Today he has been rightfully elevated to the Order of New Zealand.”
Dr. Pita Sharples, MP for Tamaki Makaurau said “he is a prolific author of short stories, poems, plays, and novels. His
stories have opened our eyes to tales of the Pacific, they confront social, political and cultural issues and challenge
our thinking and our actions.”
“He is also a practised philosopher, academic and teacher who has shared his knowledge with us here in Aotearoa, and
indeed across the Pacific and the world. He has received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bourgogne, Dijon,
France, has won numerous awards for his writings, and in 1988 was appointed as Chair of the New Zealand and Pacific
Literature Board.”
Tariana Turia made particular mention of the honour accorded to Maualaivao Emeritus Professor Albert Wendt, as a son of
Samoa. Emeritus Professor Wendt, as a descendant of Maualaivao Fili from Malie, accepted the Saofai (title bestowal), as
a means of giving back to his village.
“I understand that when he was honoured with the chiefly title last year, he did so as a means of helping to rebuild
family ties in the village. It meant a great deal to the people of Malie to honour him, not just for his contribution to
the village but the nation as a whole.
“He has shared of himself and his culture through his work, and has also created opportunities for the advancement of
Pasifika education, here and abroad.”
“He was instrumental in the establishment of the Pacific Studies Department at The University of Auckland, and also the
Fale Pasifika which is beautiful symbol of the place of Pasifika people within the University, and within Auckland.”
“We commend the outstanding contribution that Maualaivao Emeritus Professor Albert has made to the communities of
Aotearoa. We would also like to acknowledge his aiga, who are no doubt proud of his contribution to our nation. What he
has achieved would not have been possible without their support. ”
ENDS