3 August 2026
Reia is the recipient of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and Whānau Āwhina Plunket's Mere Harper and Ria Tikini Memorial Scholarship for 2026, which supports full-time nursing students of Ngāi Tahu descent in their final year of study.
Currently in her final year of the Bachelor of Nursing programme at Ara Institute of Canterbury, Reia is completing her final nine-week clinical placement before graduating. Reia is a proud mum of two young children and she says her family's experiences shaped the path she is on today.
"Both of my children spent time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and the compassion, skill and support shown by the nurses during a difficult time had a lasting impact on me," she says. "At the time I was working as a hairdresser, but those experiences inspired me to pursue a career where I could support other families through some of the most challenging moments of their lives."
The scholarship honours Mere Harper and Ria Tikini, two highly respected Māori midwives and healers from Karitāne who were instrumental in Plunket's beginnings. We acknowledge their enduring legacy while helping grow the next generation of Māori nurses. Reia says it is an honour to receive a scholarship carrying their names.
"Their dedication to whānau-centred care has inspired generations of nurses and midwives. To receive a scholarship that celebrates their legacy is something I am incredibly grateful for."
For Reia, the scholarship has made a meaningful difference.
"The financial support has reduced the stress of balancing study, placement and family responsibilities. It means I can focus on getting the most from my final placement while also spending quality time with my family."
After graduation, Reia hopes to work in women's or children's health before one day joining a Well Child Tamariki Ora service, supporting tamariki and whānau in the community.
Her advice to other rangatahi Māori considering nursing is simple:
"Believe in yourself and give it a go. Māori nurses play such an important role in improving health outcomes and providing culturally safe care. Your unique experiences and perspective are valuable, and you really can make a difference."
