Tariana Turia is a prominent New Zealand politician known for her advocacy for Māori rights and social justice. She co-founded the Māori Party in 2004, aiming to represent the interests of Māori people in the New Zealand Parliament. Turia served as a Member of Parliament for several years and held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Māori Affairs. Born in 1950, Turia has a background in health and education, which influenced her political career. She is recognized for her efforts in promoting policies that address issues such as poverty, health disparities, and cultural preservation within the Māori community.