From left to right: Deputy Prime Minister Hon Grant Robertson, Summer Hawke, Kitty McQuilkin, Peter Hughes, Public Service Commissioner - Head of Service
Kitty and Summer are a dynamic duo committed to equitable health outcomes. Together they led the Counties Manukau COVID-19 Vaccination Programme to protect the diverse communities of South Auckland. Seeing that the ‘one size fits all’ approach did not meet the needs of Māori and Pacific whānau, they turned to community leaders for their kaitiakitanga. Kitty and Summer’s drive for community-based solutions gave rise to the ‘Heroes in the Street’ campaign and increased participation using a ‘trusted faces in trusted places’ model.
Kitty is admired for her unwavering passion, advocacy, and perseverance. She can see the bigger picture and bring together the right people to get the job done.
Summer is described as a creative and committed wahine toa. Whether working with the community or advocating to senior leaders, she is not afraid to roll her sleeves up and get involved.
Together they are unstoppable leaders driven by their love for their people. Kitty and Summer are very worthy recipients of this commendation.