WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Associate Professor Anna Powles of Massey University has been awarded the Whaowhia Ngā Kete o te Wānanga Medal for Exceptional Research Citizenship, recognizing her significant contributions to Pacific security, geopolitical analysis, and New Zealand’s foreign and defense policy.
Since joining Massey University in 2013, Dr. Powles has bridged academic research, policy-making, and public discourse, providing critical insights into the dynamic geopolitical and security landscape of the Pacific Islands region. Her work has fostered informed dialogue and advanced knowledge, offering valuable perspectives on contemporary challenges.
“Dr. Powles exemplifies the role of a scholar as both a knowledge generator and a bridge between academia, policy, and the wider public,” Massey University stated in their announcement of the 2024 Research Medals.
Her contributions include conducting policy-relevant academic research rooted in rigorous theoretical frameworks, and her expertise extends to participation in track 1.5 and track 2 diplomacy mechanisms. These informal platforms for dialogue among government, academia, and civil society have allowed her to influence policy discussions in New Zealand, the Pacific, Australia, and the United States.
Dr. Powles is also a prominent voice in domestic and international media, where her commentaries and analysis are sought after for understanding Pacific security issues. Her work has addressed pressing concerns, including strategic competition in the region, climate-related security risks, and the geopolitical influence of major powers in the Pacific.
In addition to her academic work, Dr. Powles is a Nonresident Fellow at the Lowy Institute, where she contributes expertise on Pacific Islands security and New Zealand’s defense and foreign policy. The Lowy Institute, a leading international think tank based in Australia, highlights her role in shaping discourse on critical security matters and her ability to connect global audiences to Pacific-centered issues.
Dr. Powles’ recognition underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to addressing complex geopolitical challenges. Her dedication to advancing knowledge, fostering informed policy dialogue, and contributing to public understanding reflects the spirit of the Whaowhia Ngā Kete o te Wānanga Medal.
The medal is one of six research honors awarded annually by Massey University to celebrate exceptional contributions in research, leadership, and innovation. Dr. Powles’ achievement reinforces the university’s commitment to supporting research that informs both policy and practice.
For more information about Dr. Powles and her work, visit Massey University’s news page or Lowy Institute’s profile of Anna Powles.
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