Tuaiwa Rickard, known in her public life as Eva Rickard, was an influential figure in the Māori land rights movement from the 1970s to the 1990s. She showed courage and determination in negotiating the return of Te Kōpua to her people, and fought for increased Māori representation in Parliament and a variety of other indigenous rights causes both in New Zealand and overseas. She also acted in films and ran several businesses and community groups.
Wharetutu Stirling became involved in conservation issues, particularly through the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, and campaigned successfully for the protection of historic areas and the restitution of traditional place names in Marlborough and Northern Canterbury. In the 1980s she served on the North Canterbury National Parks and Reserves Board. She also became deeply involved in the restoration of traditional arts within Ngāi Tahu, a task in which she and her husband became closely associated with the noted Māori artist Cliff Whiting and weaver Te Aue Davis.
Te Arikinui, Dame Te Atairangikaahu was the first woman chosen to lead the Kīngitanga (the Māori king movement). She served as Māori queen for over 40 years, the longest reign of any Māori monarch.
The most eminent and successful Māori nurse of her day
Fostered Māori pre-school education by setting up playcentres and reviving other community organisations in rural centres. The playcentres in the Waikato–Maniapoto district were among the first to encourage use of the Māori language, foreshadowing the kohanga reo scheme.
Described as the ‘smartest Māori woman it has been my lot to meet’ by an investigating policeman, Puna Hīmene Te Rangimārie was one of the first to be prosecuted under the Tohunga Suppression Act 1907.
Well able to hold her own in an industry dominated by men, and to move easily among differing sections of society, Rona was respected for her straight talking, for her abilities as a grower and buyer, and for her extensive knowledge of the tobacco industry as a whole.
Independent, determined and capable, she symbolised a number of struggles: for survival and reconstruction among an impoverished people made helpless through land confiscations; and for recognition of the Rātana faith among the leadership and people of the King movement. She exemplified, also, the strong leadership qualities shown by many women of the Waikato kāhui ariki.
Rangitīaria Dennan, better known as Guide Rangi, achieved wide recognition as a cultural ambassador. With charm, insight and wit she imparted the essentials of Māori tradition to the tourists she guided around the thermal attractions at Whakarewarewa, Rotorua.
Reremoana could move comfortably between Māori and Pākehā worlds, creating lasting friendships and associations. She gave freely of her time, helped those who were less fortunate, and was a gracious and generous host.