Ratana, Iriaka (1905–1981)

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Ratana, Iriaka (1905–1981)

New Zealand politician. Born Iriaka Te Rio, Feb 25, 1905, in Jerusalem, NZ; died Dec 22, 1981; m. Matiu Ratana (MP), 1940 (died 1949); children: 6.

Representing Labour Party, became MP for Western Maori (1949), replacing her husband following his death; won election (1949) and remained an MP for the next 20 years; resigned because of poor health (1969). Concentrated on land issues and living conditions for Maori people; made Member of the Order of the British Empire.