Hamilton City Council has recognised Professor Tom Roa with the Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal for his outstanding contribution to Hamilton Kirikiriroa, Waikato, and Aotearoa New Zealand through leadership in Maaori language revitalisation, cultural scholarship, education, and public service.
From left to right: Mayor Tim Macindoe, Professor Tom Roa, and Robyn Roa.
For more than five decades, Professor Roa has championed te reo Maaori, enhanced understanding of tikanga Maaori, and enriched New Zealand's cultural and historical discourse through teaching, research, translation, governance, and community engagement.
One of New Zealand's most respected scholars of Maaori language and culture, Professor Roa has had a distinguished career at the University of Waikato, including leadership within Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao, the Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies. Through his teaching and mentorship, he has inspired generations of students, educators, researchers, and community leaders.
A passionate advocate for te reo Maaori, Professor Roa has made significant contributions to language revitalisation, helping strengthen its use and recognition across government, education, media, and community settings. His expertise has also informed matters of national importance through his work with the Waitangi Tribunal and numerous iwi, educational, and national organisations, contributing to greater understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and New Zealand's history.
Beyond academia, Professor Roa has become a trusted public voice on Maaori language, culture, and contemporary issues. Through public commentary, speaking engagements, and community leadership, he has helped make complex cultural and historical topics more accessible, while strengthening connections between academia, iwi, and the wider community.
Widely respected for his wisdom, generosity, integrity, and service, Professor Roa has left an enduring legacy on the cultural life of Hamilton Kirikiriroa and Aotearoa New Zealand.
Mayor Tim Macindoe said Professor Roa's recognition was richly deserved.
"Professor Tom Roa has served Hamilton City, our wider region, and our people with distinction and unwavering commitment. Following his appointment earlier this year as a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, it is a privilege to honour Tom with the Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal. It is a fitting and richly deserved recognition of a remarkable lifetime of service and humble leadership."
The Civic Awards celebrate individuals who make a significant difference to Hamilton in health and wellbeing, arts and culture, sport and recreation, education, and community service.
Recipients for 2026 were selected by the City Honours Panel, with recommendations ratified by Council on 26 June 2026. The awards were presented at a ceremony on Tuesday 11 August 2026 at the Central Court Pavilion, Hamilton Gardens.
Past recipients of the Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal include Martin Gallagher, Ian Foster, Sir John Gallagher, the late John and Bunny Mortimer, Dr Beverley Clarkson and Professor Bruce Clarkson, Dr Peter Sergel, and Richard O'Brien.
Nominations for Civic Awards are open year-round at hamilton.govt.nz/city-honours or by emailing civicawards@hcc.govt.nz.