Karen Ritchie, a lifelong advocate for compassion, dignity, and human rights, has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in recognition of her extraordinary service to people living with HIV/AIDS and to Rainbow communities across Aotearoa.
Of Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi descent, Ms Ritchie has devoted decades of her life to supporting some of New Zealand’s most marginalised groups. Her work—driven by empathy and action—has helped dismantle stigma, provide crucial support, and give hope to countless individuals.
Championing Those Living with HIV/AIDS
Karen Ritchie’s enduring impact spans her work with the New Zealand AIDS Foundation (NZAF), Body Positive Inc., and Positive Women. Across many years—and many volunteer hours—she has walked alongside people navigating the complexities of HIV diagnosis, treatment, and the social challenges that come with it.
In 2008, she was made a Life Member of NZAF, in recognition of her tireless dedication to those living with HIV/AIDS.
In 2002, she founded the Cartier Bereavement Charitable Trust, a ground-breaking initiative that provided funerals for people dying of AIDS whose families could not afford one. For over 20 years, the Trust brought dignity and compassion to the most vulnerable moments in people’s lives. When advancements in HIV treatment reduced demand for such services, the Trust concluded its mission in 2023, donating its remaining funds to Positive Women’s Institute and Body Positive Inc., ensuring its legacy would continue.
Recognising the unique needs of younger people, Karen launched the Under 35s HIV Support Group at Body Positive in 2010, creating a safe, supportive space for connection, understanding, and healing.
Advocate for Safety, Sex Workers, and Legal Reform
Beyond healthcare, Karen has also been a leading force in advocating for safer public spaces. From 2016 to 2023, she played a key role in establishing and supporting the K’Rd Community Safety Group, a response to increasing violence against Rainbow communities and sex workers along Karangahape Road. The initiative has helped foster a more welcoming and secure environment for all.
Her advocacy extended to the legislative arena, including her involvement with the Prostitutes Law Review Committee, where she supported the Prostitution Reform Act 2003. This world-leading reform decriminalised sex work in Aotearoa and is internationally recognised for improving safety and the rights of sex workers.
On the international stage, Karen was a founding member of the Red Umbrella Fund, a global fund for sex worker-led initiatives. She served on its committee for two years, helping guide its direction and strategy in its formative years.
“A Trailblazer the Community Can Be Proud Of”
This national honour celebrates not only Karen Ritchie’s leadership and activism, but also her unwavering humanity—her willingness to stand beside people in their hardest moments, challenge injustice, and build kinder, safer communities.
Speaking to YOUR EX, Shanan Halbert MP praised the honour, saying:
“It is wonderful to see Karen Ritchie’s decades of service to the rainbow community acknowledged today. At a time when many turned away, Karen cared for people living with AIDS in their final days, a powerful testament to her strength, courage, and deep compassion for others.”
“She is a trailblazer, and her honour is one the entire rainbow community can feel deeply proud of.”
