By Webfit News | Auckland | 5 October 2025

A proud moment for New Zealand. Te Pāti Māori Member of Parliament Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke has been recognised by Time Magazine as one of the world’s most influential rising stars.

Hana-Rawhiti was only 21 when she entered Parliament in 2023, becoming one of the youngest MPs in the country. Her fearless voice for Māori language, culture, and youth leadership has already made a mark far beyond New Zealand.

A moment that moved the world

Last year, she performed a powerful haka inside Parliament during the debate on the Treaty Principles Bill. That single act captured international attention. It showed her courage to stand for Māori identity and values in the heart of the nation’s democracy.

Praise from around the world

Former US Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, who wrote about her for Time Magazine, said Hana-Rawhiti is part of a long line of activists who inspire others every day. Haaland wrote that she uses her platform to protect Indigenous rights and to give hope to young people everywhere.

Time Magazine said Hana-Rawhiti “shook the world” and described her as someone who follows in the footsteps of her ancestors who kept Māori traditions alive through difficult times.

Leadership and conviction

Even when her bold stand led to a short suspension from Parliament, Hana-Rawhiti continued to speak her mind. Her actions reminded everyone that leadership is about courage, not age.

Earlier, she had already been honoured as One Young World Politician of the Year, an award that recognises outstanding politicians under the age of 35 who use their positions to create positive change.

Beyond politics

Hana-Rawhiti is also known for her creativity. This year, she appeared in a music video with well-known singer Stan Walker, celebrating Māori identity through music and storytelling.

Inspiration for the next generation

For New Zealand’s diverse communities, including Indian and South Asian families, Hana-Rawhiti’s story is a message of hope. It reminds us that young voices can change the world when guided by purpose and pride in their roots.

She stands as proof that determination and respect for culture can go hand in hand with modern leadership.

Source: Radio New Zealand and Time Magazine / Picture reference from www.scoop.co.nz