Ned Ellison

Edward Pohau Ellison (26 November 1884 – 9 November 1963), generally known as Ned Ellison and also as Pohau Erihana, was a New Zealand doctor, public health administrator and rugby player.

Biography Ellison was born in Waikanae, New Zealand, on 26 November 1884. Of Māori descent, he identified with the Ngai Tahu and Te Āti Awa iwi.

Ellison attended Te Aute College and then Te Rau Theological College in Gisborne. He was later promoted to the post of Resident Commissioner. He then became Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Resident Commissioner of the Cook Islands from 1926 to 1927. He retired to Taradale in 1956 and died in Napier on 9 November 1963.

Ellison made significant contributions to the health of both Māori and Pacific peoples in areas of public health, sanitation, immunisation and the treatment of tropical and infectious diseases.

Honours and awards In 1935, Ellison was awarded the King George V Silver Jubilee Medal. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 1938 New Year Honours.