Siakimotu and Aue recognised with New Zealand Public Service Commendation for Excellence Awards
Jon Siakimotu (left) and Gail Sharon Aue recipients of the 2022 NZ Public Service Commendation for Excellence Awards
Most Niueans live in New Zealand and last week two of them, Jon Siakimotu and Gail Sharon Aue were part of a group of 35 public servants recognised for their excellent contribution to the New Zealand Public Service and awarded the Public Service Commissioner’s Commendation for Excellence.
The awards were presented by Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson.
Mr Jon Siakimotu from Avatele is the Director of Housing and Operational Policy, Te Manatū mō ngā iwi ō te Moana-nui-ā-Kiwa | Ministry for Pacific Peoples.
According to the New Zealand Public Service website, “Jon is a true example of being motivated by something bigger than oneself. Seeing gaps in services for Māori and Pacific communities, he set out to be a catalyst for positive change. His leadership has driven transformational policy for Pacific communities in areas of housing, immigration, health, employment, and justice.
Jon is widely recognised as a thought leader across the Public Service, with an ability to connect multiple agencies towards a common goal. Colleagues acknowledge his willingness to share, ongoing support, and drive to improve Pacific outcomes. Jon is a worthy recipient of this commendation”
Mrs Gail Sharon Aue is from the village of Hakupu and is a Work Broker in Auckland at the Ministry of Social Development
“Gail’s commitment to serving with genuine care and manaakitanga is inspiring. Throughout her time at the Ministry of Social Development, she has aided thousands to gain sustainable employment and supported whānau through COVID-19 lockdowns.
In Gail’s presence, clients know they will be treated with dignity and aroha. They know they will leave with the tools to overcome any personal obstacle. To quote her colleagues, Gail is a role model, a confidante, and most importantly, a friend. The way she shares her wisdom and empowers others makes her a worthy recipient of this commendation.”
On the website, Peter Hughes the NZ Public Service commissioner said that ‘Public Service Day is about more than awards. It’s about reflecting on the ideal of public service. It’s also an opportunity to remind ourselves that New Zealand has a Public Service that values neutrality, fairness, and integrity – a Public Service we can all be proud of.”
Since 2018, the New Zealand Public Service Day Awards have been recognising public servants who exemplify the spirit of service and are making a real difference through their everyday work for New Zealand or New Zealanders.
