A proud dentist from Tai-Ote-Papa on the island of Pukapuka, Dr Kirianu ‘Dash’ Nio, has made history by becoming the first Cook Islander and the eighth in the Pacific region to be recognised as a Fellow of The International College of Dentists (ICD).

Dr Nio received the fellowship at Te Pae Convention Centre in Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand, accompanied by his wife Parau.

“I’m humbled with a deep sense of gratitude to God for his knowledge and wisdom and direction over my life,” he said.

“Standing alongside world leading dentists is a testament to the sacrifices and commitment that I’ve invested over the many years in the various disciplines of dentistry.”

His journey in the field of dentistry began in 1987 as a dental assistant straight out of Tereora College.

Over the years, through practical experience and intense studies, he qualified to become a dental therapist, a dental technician, a dentist, an oral surgeon and is currently the manager of clinical oral health services at Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health in Rarotonga.

Dr Nio is also the president of the Dental and Medical Council of the Cook Islands and is serving his second term. He is the first dental practitioner to take on the role.

He is passionate about improving dental health initiatives and outcomes for communities in the Cook Islands.

Cook Islander Dr Kiki Maoate, president of the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) and chairperson of New Zealand’s National Pacific Health Senate, attended the special event.

Through the support of the PMA, three esteemed regional oral health specialists – Dr Kirianu Nio, Dr Jenny Tangis and Dr Nelson Tangwha – were able to attend the ceremony.

Dr Maoate proudly congratulated the oral health specialists on their accomplishment and expressed his joy in their recognition.

“We are extremely delighted to have played a part in supporting our dental colleagues from the Cook Islands and Vanuatu to attend this significant event, where they were rightfully acknowledged for their unwavering commitment to their profession and their communities,” Dr Maoate said in a PMA statement.

Fellowship in The International College of Dentists is by invitation only and is granted in recognition of an individual dentist’s outstanding professional achievement, meritorious service and dedication to the continued progress of dentistry for the benefit of humankind.

Dr Nio’s nomination was reviewed by the Board of Section VIII (Australia, New Zealand, South Pacific) of the ICD.

This invitation was in recognition of his leadership and outstanding contribution as a dental professional in the region.

Dr Nio would like to express his gratitude to his wife Parau, sister Ine Akama, Wale families, Dr Kiki Maoate, nephew Junior Charlie, Te Marae Ora secretary Bob Williams, Dr Danny Areai, the New Zealand Dental Association and WHO - Te Matua Ya ke tiketike.

He would like to encourage people to have routine dental check-ups rather than wait until a painful serious tooth or gum ache occurs.

The Pasifika Medical Association extends their heartfelt congratulations and eagerly anticipates the positive impact these three esteemed Fellows will continue to make in the Pacific.