Dr Tearikivao (Kiki) Maoate is a leading Cook Islands and New Zealand paediatric surgeon and urologist, widely recognised for advancing child health and Pacific health equity. He is President of the Pasifika Medical Association Group and Chair of Pasifika Futures, the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency for Pacific peoples.

Alongside his surgical practice at Christchurch Hospital, Dr Maoate has championed Pacific medical workforce development and regional health initiatives across 11 Pacific nations. As Associate Dean Pacific at the University of Otago, he combines clinical excellence, teaching, and governance leadership to improve outcomes for Pacific families in New Zealand and the wider region.