Seven Niueans were honored at the Niue National Awards 2024 held at the 50th Anniversary Celebration last Saturday.
The award recognises individuals for their long-standing service, voluntary contributions, demonstrated innovation, and entrepreneurial efforts that have made a positive impact in the livelihood of others in the Niuean community.
The awards was announced by the Speaker of the Niue Assembly-Hon. Hima Douglas and the Niue Distinguished Service Cross Awards was presented by the New Zealand Governor General and Chief in Commanderin and out of the Realm of New Zealand-HE. Dame Cindy Kiro.
NIUE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS:
*Mrs. Lapati Paka who was born on July 12, 1935 who is now 89 years old. She began her education at Kofekofe Primary School and pursued nursing training in Western Samoa in 1951. After working as a nurse, she furthered her education with a home economics course sponsored by the South Pacific Commission in Suva, Fiji.
*Lata Posimani, born on January 29, 1938, began his career as a male nurse at Lord Liverpool Hospital at age 16.He served as a Member of Parliament for Tuapa and later became Minister for Community Affairs, Telecommunications, and Sports. His award was accepted on his behalf by his granddaughter Ms. Jade Posimani.
*Honourable Billy Graham Talagi- born on March 22, 1957, is a dedicated and long-serving member of the Niue Legislative Assembly, currently in his ninth term (2023-2026). His dedication and service exemplify a lifetime commitment to advancing the well-being of Niue and its people.
NIUE COMMUNITY SERVICE STAR:
*Mr. Tamatoa Misikea- born on January 9th, 1959, has dedicated over 50 years of service to his
community. His passion for Niuean culture and the performing arts has been instrumental in preserving and promoting Niue’s identity and values
*Mrs. Beckys Tauasi-born on December 24, 1955, has been a dedicated leader in the Niue
Girls’ Brigade since joining in 1965 at age 10.She continues to play a key role in women’s empowerment and youth development in Niue.
NIUE PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD
*Mrs. Minemaligi Pulu devoted over 30 years to public health in Niue, serving as the Maternal Child Health Nurse at Niue Foou Hospital. . In addition, she took on multiple roles, including Community
Health Nurse, school health nurse, and home visit nurse.
*Mr Sionetasi Pulehetoa- born of the 12 August 1955, he started in the Public Service as a radio trainee in January 1973 at telecom Niue. He worked 43 years for the government and retired at the age of 60 in 2015. He did a three-year term as a new public service commissioner from 2017 to 2020.
The Niue’s Honors List has now been running for the fourth year now.
