In a moving tribute, Chris Marjoribanks was celebrated with the prestigious Sir Eion and Jan, Lady Edgar Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring decades of unwavering service to Māori wellbeing, sport and community development.

Matua Chris is a name synonymous with leadership, compassion and tireless dedication. For over 25 years, he has steered the Mataatua Sports Trust, delivering the kaupapa of He Oranga Poutama in the Bay of Plenty – the longest-running kaupapa Māori initiative within the Sport New Zealand Ihi Aotearoa whānau. Through this programme, Matua Chris has helped thousands reconnect with their cultural identity through traditional Māori games and activities such as Ki-ō-Rahi, Tapu Wae, Tī uru, Poi Toa, Waka Ama and Mau Rākau.

But Matua Chris’ impact goes far beyond sport.

From his roots in Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Matua Chris has worn many hats: Chair of the Trust, Chief Executive of Tūwharetoa ki Kawerau Hauora, Kawerau District Councillor, Justice of the Peace, trustee of multiple Māori land trusts and a long-serving member of Sport NZ’s National Rōpū Manaaki. His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening community cohesion, improving mental health outcomes and advocating for better housing in Kawerau.

One of his most heartfelt contributions was helping launch the Kawerau Suicide Prevention Action Plan, a response to a tragic spike in youth suicides. Matua Chris’s advocacy led to vital support services for at-risk rangatahi and adults, showing his deep commitment to the hauora of his people.

He describes his work with the Mataatua Sports Trust as “the fun part”

In 2019, Matua Chris was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for services to youth and the community – a testament to his enduring legacy.

Despite his many accolades, Matua Chris remains grounded. He describes his work with the Mataatua Sports Trust as “the fun part” – mahi that directly uplifts Māori health and ensures Māori perspectives are woven into research and practice.

As he accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award, Matua Chris stood not just as an individual being honoured, but as a symbol of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.

We proudly celebrate Chris Marjoribanks – a true champion of kaupapa Māori, a leader of integrity and a taonga to his community.