Kua hinga he tōtara i te wao nui a Tāne.
It is with great respect and sorrow that the NZQA whānau acknowledges the passing of Dame Karen Poutasi.
Dame Karen led our organisation for 14 years from 2006 to 2020, joining NZQA during a period of significant challenge and guiding the organisation with clarity and purpose. She will be remembered for her unwavering focus on the quality of education provision and the introduction of digital NCEA assessment, along with her commitment to equity and her compassion for people.
We send our deepest aroha to Dame Karen’s whānau, including her treasured mokopuna.
E te māreikura, moe mai rā i te moenga roa.
Acknowledging Dame Karen Poutasi
3 January 2026