Nominations for The Eru Pomare Medal are Now Open

Nominate an outstanding colleague for the 2026 Eru Pōmare Medal

NZSG is proud to recognise members who go above and beyond in service to gastroenterology, our communities and patients across Aotearoa New Zealand.

The Eru Pōmare Medal honours the remarkable legacy of Professor Eru Pōmare, a distinguished gastroenterologist, researcher, teacher and Māori health leader.

Of Ngāti Mutunga, Te Ātiawa, Ngāti Toa, Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Kahungunu and Rongowhakaata descent, Professor Pōmare was a Ngārimu VC Scholar who graduated from the University of Otago in 1966. After undertaking further research in Bristol as a Commonwealth Scholar, he joined the Wellington School of Medicine in 1975. He became Professor of Medicine in 1986 and Dean in 1993, while continuing his clinical practice, research and leadership in Māori health.

Professor Pōmare made important contributions to understanding gut function, particularly colonic physiology. He also worked alongside Māori and Pacific communities to explore traditional diets and their effects on digestive health. His commitment extended well beyond academia: he volunteered in remote communities, assessing people with hepatitis B, promoting vaccination, supporting healthier dietary choices and encouraging smoking cessation.

At the heart of his work was a deep commitment to people. Professor Pōmare believed in helping patients and supporting others to achieve their potential. People travelled from throughout New Zealand to see him, and his compassion, clinical excellence and leadership continue to be remembered by patients and colleagues.

The inaugural Eru Pōmare Medal was presented to Professor Ed Gane in 2023, recognising his globally renowned contribution to curing hepatitis C and his longstanding commitment to advancing gastroenterology.

Who will you nominate in 2026?

The NZSG Executive is now seeking nominations for the Eru Pōmare Medal, to consider for presentation at the NZSG Annual Scientific Meeting 2026.

Nominees MUST be NZSG members who have demonstrated excellence in one or more areas reflecting Professor Pōmare’s work:

• Teaching

• Research

• Nutrition

• Clinical gastroenterology

• Public health

• Māori health

• Leadership

If a colleague’s contribution deserves national recognition, please take the time to nominate them.

Complete the nomination form and submit the required information to office@nzsg.org.nz.

Nominations close Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

For more information about Professor Eru Pōmare, the Medal and the selection process, please read the accompanying biography and selection criteria document or visit the NZSG webpage Eru Pōmare Medal | New Zealand Society Of Gastroenterology