The King's Service Medal:
ANGLAND, Ms Carol
For services to the community and theatre
Ms Carol Angland has actively served her South Canterbury community for more than 50 years.
Ms Angland has been a volunteer member of the South Canterbury Drama League (SCDL) for 45 years, involved onstage, backstage, in directing plays, and with management. A past Chair of the Repertory Section, she was President of the SCDL from 2002 to 2005, overseeing major property refurbishments. She has written and directed several plays for the SCDL, most recently ‘Captain Cain’ in 2023, which received local and national acclaim. She is a Life Member of both Repertory and the SCDL. In 2011 she received a Community Service Award from Arthritis New Zealand for 15 years of voluntary service organising door-to-door and street collections for Arthritis South Canterbury. She is a Life Member of Hospice South Canterbury. A volunteer since 1996, her roles have included video producer, home carer, retail assistant, and biographer recording patients’ life stories for their families. She was a co-organiser of highly successful South Canterbury Wine and Food Festivals, a major fundraiser for Hospice. She wrote ‘Loving Care’, the history of the first 25 years of Hospice South Canterbury. Ms Angland is the author of the published histories of Presbyterian Support South Canterbury, Tennis South Canterbury and The Mid and South Canterbury Community Trust.
The King's Service Medal:
BIGHAM, Ms Bonita Joanne
For services to local government and Māori
Ms Bonita Bigham (Ngāruahine, Te Ātiawa) is in her sixth term elected to local government, serving the South Taranaki District Council and Taranaki Regional Council as its current Māori ward councillor.
Ms Bigham was appointed as a Local Government Commissioner in 2021 and has served on various Local Government New Zealand committees, including its national council. From 2016 to 2024, she chaired Te Maruata, the collective of Māori elected and appointed members. She is a former Ngāti Tāwhirikura hapū trustee, Waiokura Marae trustee and Ngāti Tū hapū chair, and sat on Ngāruahine’s pre- and post- Treaty settlement entities. She serves on Te Puna, Taumata Arowai’s Māori advisory committee, and chaired Lotteries Oranga Marae. She was appointed to the Taranaki/Whanganui Conservation Board, New Zealand Geographic Board and Toi Aotearoa Creative New Zealand’s Arts Council. She represented Aotearoa New Zealand as a co-head of delegation at the 13th Festival of the Pacific Arts and Culture in Hawai’i in 2024. As an artist and arts advocate, she has spoken at the United Nations and various other international forums on Māori and indigenous artistic rights, focusing mainly on CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Ms Bigham received a 2023 Fulbright New Zealand General Graduate Award, enabling her to study in Hawai’i for a year.
The King's Service Medal:
BRENSSELL, Mr Douglas James
For services to the community
Mr Douglas Brenssell has contributed to the Hāwea community through various organisations for 25 years.
Mr Brenssell has been a committee member and caretaker of the Lake Hawea Community since 2003, and in 2011 was a key member of the group which raised funds and actioned the extension of the centre. He has been a committee member of the Hawea Community Association since 2006. He has been the founding organiser of the Hawea District Anzac Service, and helped develop and maintain the Anzac memorial area and monument beside the lake. He was hands-on in establishing lawns, planting trees and installing lighting for the memorial area. He has been groundsman for community events, including the Waitangi Day Challenge community sports competition and the 2019 Otago Goldfields Cavalcade. He is on the committee of the Hawea Picnic Racing Club. He was a founding member of the Hawea Domain Board in 2020. He was a founding member of the Upper Clutha Community Patrol, and a member of the Volunteer Fire Brigades of both Heriot and Lake Hawea for 27 years. He volunteered for the Department of Corrections for more than 10 years, supporting those with community work sentences. Mr Brenssell was recognised with the inaugural Hawea Volunteer of the Year award in 2012.
The King's Service Medal:
BRUCE, Mrs Robyn Ann
For services to youth and sport
Mrs Robyn Bruce has been a leader for young people and athletes in Northland for more than 30 years.
Mrs Bruce started coaching hockey at Orewa School in 1981 and has continued coaching the sport for 28 years. Under her leadership, many young players have become North Shore and Northland representatives. She served on the Northland Hockey Association Junior and Collegiate Committees from 1995 to 2017. She has been the Award Leader for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award at Otamatea High School (OHS) for more than 20 years, inspiring hundreds of teenagers to develop new skills and give back to their communities. She received a long service award for her involvement. She has served as the Kaiwaka Athletic Club President and Secretary. She has coached young athletes for the North Island and New Zealand Colgate Games and has taken OHS teams to Northland Secondary School Athletics. She has been the Athletics Northland Children’s delegate to annual general meetings in Wellington. She has coached OHS swimmers to represent Northland in National Divisions. On top of these commitments, she continuously volunteers her free time to fundraise for students. In 2023, Mrs Bruce received an Exceptional Service Award from Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh.
The King's Service Medal:
BURGESS, Mr John Randall (JR)
For services to the community
Mr JR Burgess has dedicated more than six decades of service to Owaka and The Catlins, volunteering for several community organisations.
Mr Burgess has been involved in the Owaka Memorial Community Centre since its inception in 1958 while a representative of the Owaka Young Farmers’ Club. He was appointed to the Management Committee in 1968 shortly before the hall opened and has served as Chair twice. He has been a stalwart of the Owaka and South Otago Pony Clubs since the 1960s and has been an Owaka Lions Club member since 1973. As Convenor, he was involved in many local events and fundraising projects including for a new x-ray machine and other equipment for the Catlins Medical Centre. He received Life Membership of the Owaka Lions Club in 2008. In 2002 he was elected Chair of a steering committee for the Catlins Historical Society to build a new museum in Owaka. As head of local fundraising, he raised $110,000 for the award-winning museum which opened in 2007. He has been a weekend volunteer and has served on the Grounds and Maintenance sub-committee since 2007. Mr Burgess won a Trust Power Individual Civic Award in 2014 for services to the community and received Honorary Life Membership of The Catlins Historical Society in 2021.
The King's Service Medal:
BURGESS, Mrs Marin
For services to heritage preservation and education
Mrs Marin Burgess has volunteered with the Howick Historical Village since 1980, New Zealand's largest living history museum, holding multiple committee, guide and co-ordinating roles.
Mrs Burgess is currently on the Board as the Historical Societies Heritage Advisor and is actively assisting a programme cataloguing the museum's collection. She was a foundation education guide with the Village's education programme, providing hands-on learning for school children, before moving to visitor guiding and setting up heritage exhibitions. She served twice as President of the Howick and Districts Historical Society, who own and operate the Village. She steered the Society through the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the Village, and during her first presidency oversaw the transfer of ownership of Bell House and the relocation of Puhi Nui Homestead, both noteworthy buildings within the Village. She was a member of both the 150th and 175th Anniversary Trusts for Howick, playing a key role in the 2022 district-wide event with multiple live events, displays and competitions. She was involved in the development of the Auckland Volunteer Centre and COVAK (Coordinators of Volunteers Auckland). Mrs Burgess has been a Red Cross refugee support volunteer and received the Founders Day award from Zonta of East Auckland for services to the community and Howick's heritage.
The King's Service Medal:
CALDWELL, Mrs Emily Myra (Myra)
For services to the community and music
Mrs Myra Caldwell has volunteered for 81 years, continuing to serve her community at 97 years old.
Mrs Caldwell began playing organ for church services in 1943 and continues to play for many events today. She has served on national and local committees for the Women’s Methodist Fellowship, having been a member for 70 years. In the 1950s, she represented Thames Valley in badminton and was Te Aroha College’s badminton coach from 1975 to 1988. She sang alto in the Te Aroha Methodist Choir, Te Aroha Choral Society and Te Aroha-Morrinsville Combined Churches Choirs for several years in the 1970s. She was the piano accompanist for the David Qualtrough Singers group for 35 years until 2017. She plays the piano for Te Aroha Women’s RSA meetings and received a Long Service Award in 2024. She is the pianist at the Manx Society meetings and has been a member for many decades. She was the Secretary and Treasurer of the Elstow Indoor Bowling Club for 13 years. She is a Life Member of both Tui Park and Elstow Indoor Bowling Clubs. She was Te Aroha Bowling Club’s Tournament Convenor until 2022. Mrs Caldwell previously assisted the Te Aroha Good Neighbours foodbank for several years from 2010.
The King's Service Medal:
CARR, Mrs Marjorie Eleanor
For services to netball and the community
Mrs Marjorie Carr has served the community of Ōtorohanga for more than 60 years.
Mrs Carr’s contribution to netball began as a player and coach for the Ōtorohanga Netball Association (ONA), now Ōtorohanga Netball Centre, before becoming a Games Organiser in 1966. She contributed countless hours to fundraising and working bees, enabling the installation of floodlighting and essential upgrades. She has held numerous leadership positions within ONA and Waikato Netball, receiving Service Awards from both organisations, and a Netball New Zealand Service Award. She has been Patron of Ōtorohanga Netball Centre since 2007 and continues to serve on both the Protest and Awards Committees. She was Ōtorohanga Umpire Association President from 1982 to 1992. While teaching at Ōtorohanga College, she was instrumental in developing the school’s netball programme and initiating tours to the South Island, Rarotonga and Australia. She has been an active member of the Ōtorohanga Tennis Club for more than 50 years. She has played competitively, coached juniors and adults, facilitated ladies’ evenings, and leading fundraising events. She is a Life Member and Club Patron and has held several committee roles, including President from 1988 to 1991. In 2006, Mrs Carr joined the Ōtorohanga Lyceum Club, holding three key positions, namely facilitating the Tea Circle, leading the Mah Jong Circle, and serving as President.
The King's Service Medal:
CLAUSEN, Mr Lloyd Bertram, MStJ
For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community
Mr Lloyd Clausen has been a leader in the Leeston community for several decades, serving with a range of organisations.
Mr Clausen joined the Leeston Volunteer Fire Brigade in 1969, since serving in several roles including Deputy Chief Fire Officer and Chief Fire Officer, and being made a Life Member in 1994. He has promoted and led extensive Community Fire Safety programmes in the area. He has been on the Leeston Township Advisory Committee for 30 years, serving as Chair from 2004 to 2024. He has overseen and operated the Leeston Learners Pool for more than 30 years, organising volunteer operation and maintenance. He is the current President of the Ellesmere Returned and Services Association, after 20 years of membership, including organising the annual Poppy Day sales and ANZAC Day services. He is a long-serving member for more than 20 years of the Ellesmere and Selwyn St John Area Committee. Starting in 2011, he has been a Foundation Trust Board Member of the Ellesmere Heritage Park Trust. Mr Clausen has played with the Ellesmere Brass Band for 22 years and the Royal New Zealand Air Force Base Wigram Brass Band for 13 years, performing at various functions locally and nationally.
HONOURS
Member of the Venerable Order of St John, 2019
The King's Service Medal:
COOKE, Mr Edwin Frederick Ruthven (Ed)
For services to music
Mr Ed Cooke and his wife Mrs Juliet Cooke have contributed to music in the Wairarapa region since 1977, when they founded the Greytown Music Group.
Through Greytown Music Group, Mr and Mrs Cooke have brought a wide range of musical events to the area, including orchestral, instrumental, choral, small-scale operas and children’s concerts at various venues. Performers have included local musicians and choirs, professionals from Wellington, emerging artists and music students. Since the 1990s they have focused on a regular series of chamber music concerts. They designed and constructed a house specifically to accommodate performances, seating up to 90 people with accommodation for visiting musicians. Since 1994, they have organised around 6 to 8 concerts annually. Nationally-known musicians have regularly featured, such as the Amici Ensemble and NZTrio, as well as visiting international musicians. High quality performances have been staged at reasonable costs for local audiences, with all proceeds going to the performers themselves, with Mr and Mrs Cooke undertaking the organisation on a voluntary basis, with hundreds of hours going into promoting, booking and staging the concerts over the years. Mr and Mrs Cooke have given administrative support to the South Wairarapa Singers and St Luke’s Church choir, and have personally played with the Masterton Amateur Theatre Society.
The King's Service Medal:
COOKE, Mrs Juliet Anne
For services to music
Mrs Juliet Cooke and her husband Mr Ed Cooke have contributed to music in the Wairarapa region since 1977, when they founded the Greytown Music Group.
Through Greytown Music Group, Mr and Mrs Cooke have brought a wide range of musical events to the area, including orchestral, instrumental, choral, small-scale operas and children’s concerts at various venues. Performers have included local musicians and choirs, professionals from Wellington, emerging artists and music students. Since the 1990s they have focused on a regular series of chamber music concerts. They designed and constructed a house specifically to accommodate performances, seating up to 90 people with accommodation for visiting musicians. Since 1994, they have organised around 6 to 8 concerts annually. Nationally-known musicians have regularly featured, such as the Amici Ensemble and NZTrio, as well as visiting international musicians. High quality performances have been staged at reasonable costs for local audiences, with all proceeds going to the performers themselves, with Mr and Mrs Cooke undertaking the organisation on a voluntary basis, with hundreds of hours going into promoting, booking and staging the concerts over the years. Mr and Mrs Cooke have given administrative support to the South Wairarapa Singers and St Luke’s Church choir, and have personally played with the Masterton Amateur Theatre Society.
The King's Service Medal:
COOPER, Mrs Helen Rose
For services to the community
Mrs Helen Cooper (Ngāti Hauiti, Ngāti Kahungunu, Te Ātiawa) has volunteered in the Bulls community for more than 30 years.
In 1988, Mrs Cooper was the first woman to join the Bulls Volunteer Fire Brigade. She served as Secretary and Treasurer between 1989 and 1992 and is now a Life Member. She has been involved with the Bulls Floral Art Club and the Marton Floral Art Club and has been a judge at New Zealand’s longest-running rose show in Bulls. For more than 10 years, she has voluntarily provided catering and flowers for funerals and local events. She is an active member of Our Lady of Grace Church in Bulls since it started in 2023, donating monthly floral arrangements to the church. She has gone above and beyond volunteering for Rata Marae for more than 10 years, serving as Chair for three years. She is the Secretary of the Bulls and District Historical Society and has been with the organisation for more than 20 years. She is the main contact for the museum, organising visits and displays, and maintaining an extensive filing system. She organised the Rangitīkei Tough Kids Challenge, an obstacle course for children between three and eight years old. In 2023, Mrs Cooper received the Rangitīkei District Council Volunteer Award.
The King's Service Medal:
CRAIG, Mr Richard John
For services to the Coastguard
Mr Richard Craig has been a member of Coastguard Kaikōura since 1987, making him the longest-serving volunteer in the organisation’s history.
Mr Craig served as President from 1993 to 2009 and is now a Life Member. He is the unit's Safety Coordinator and remains active as a skipper, crew member, and Board member, playing a crucial role in maintaining high operational standards. He regularly mentors fellow volunteers in best practices for vessel operations. In 2006, he was pivotal in raising more than $700,000 for a purpose-built rescue vessel for the Kaikōura Rescue Project. He was one of seven crew members that were acknowledged by New Zealand Search and Rescue (NZSAR) for his involvement in a daring rescue in 2010. He has been actively involved in multiple organisations, including The Kaikōura Marine Guardians, The Kaikōura Boating Club, the Ministry of Primary Industries South Island Recreational Fishing Forum, The Kaikōura Salmon Enhancement Society and Te Korowai o Te Tai ō Marokura. In 2021 he won Wet Crew Volunteer and Supreme Volunteer of the Year at the New Zealand Coastguard National Awards. Mr Craig was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for his long service and dedication to Coastguard at the 2021 NZSAR Awards.
The King's Service Medal:
DINNINGTON, Mrs Anneke Jacoba
For services to seniors and the community
Mrs Anneke Dinnington has contributed to the Taupō community through leadership roles at Age Concern and Citizens Advice Bureau.
While the Manager at Age Concern Taupō from 1992 to 2004, Mrs Dinnington was the public face of the organisation, advocating for seniors locally and nationally. She was crucial to the Taupō Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), where she was Manager/Coordinator for 18 years. In this role, she proved to be a highly successful fundraiser, taking responsibility for raising the necessary funds to ensure the CAB could run effectively. She has been an active volunteer for many services, allowing her to be a conduit between the community and the Taupō District Council. She was a member of the Daycare Centre for the Elderly and Disabled Trust, the Waiora Community Trust Funding Distribution Committee and the Community Organisations Grants Scheme Tongariro Distribution. She has built close working relationships with other community support groups, including Waiora House, The Foodbank and Interfaith Welfare. She served on the Board of Te Whare o Manaaki Trust, assisting newly released prisoners into employment and accommodation. Mrs Dinnington was appointed to the Taupō District Council Community Grants Committee in 2024 to decide on applications for financial assistance under its Communities Scheme.
The King's Service Medal:
DRAKE, Mr David Alyn
For services to the community
Mr David Drake has provided almost 50 years of continuous service to his community as a Rotary Club member.
Since 1978 Mr Drake has volunteered his time and personal resources to the wider Rotary community, holding several administration and leadership roles. In 2007 he coordinated a major charity auction, raising more than $75,000 for Bone Marrow Cancer Trust’s Ranui House in Christchurch. In 2011 he became District Governor of Rotary International District 9970 at a time when Christchurch communities were left without many services following the Canterbury earthquakes. He oversaw several projects including the delivery of portable pools to schools in the badly hit eastern suburbs, the provision of two mobile library vans, and secured funding for the replacement of emergency and medical equipment for St John. He was the District Rotary Foundation Chair and personally coordinated fundraising projects worth $40,000 for Polio Plus, a global polio vaccination programme. He has travelled to Fiji to build Rotahomes. For more than 15 years, he has been the coordinator for the Lincoln Rotary Primary Schools Quiz, with more than 20 schools participating annually. Mr Drake was the South Island District Chair for the Rotary Friendship Exchange Programme and is Coordinator for the Bill and Lorna Boyd Trust ‘Dictionaries in Schools’ project.
The King's Service Medal:
EADEN, Mr John Matthew
For services to the arts
Mr John Eaden is an artist and mentor who has contributed to creative communities in New Zealand for 46 years.
Between 1979 and 2013, Mr Eaden was Programme Director and Manager at Ponsonby’s Outreach, subsequently known as Artstation and now Studio One, overseeing the organisation through several significant changes. He has supported numerous young and emerging artists, artists with disabilities, and those who wanted to enter art institutions later in life. He made Artstation into a welcoming centre for other arts organisations, including the Association of Women Arts, Artists’ Alliance and Arts Access Aotearoa. As a Board member and Chair, his leadership was vital to Artists Alliance, a non-profit organisation that provided information, resources, career advice, networks and advocacy for visual artists. He joined the Spark Studio Board of Trustees in 2008, serving as Chair from 2010 to 2013. Spark Studio, now known as Mapura, grew into a significant community art space for people living with disabilities, with educational and therapeutic programmes. After moving to Hawke’s Bay in 2013, he continued his involvement with local arts and creative practices, serving as President of the Keirunga Arts and Crafts Society for three years, and on the Arts Inc Heretaunga Board for 12 years, including a year as Chair. Mr Eaden was President of the Hastings District Landmarks Trust.
The King's Service Medal:
ELLIOT, Mr Graeme Leslie
For services to the community and outdoor recreation
Mr Graeme Elliot volunteers for conservation and community charities in the Otago region.
Mr Elliot joined Dunedin’s Green Hut Track Group (GHTG) in 2009 and has been its leader since 2010. He coordinates teams of volunteers who meet weekly to maintain 60 kilometres of tracks on behalf of the Department of Conservation (DOC) and 80 kilometres of tracks for the Dunedin City Council (DCC). As well as maintaining close liaison with DOC and DCC, he helps transport machinery, clears vegetation, provides weekly reports and mentors new volunteers looking for work experience. He works with local funding providers to source grants for purchasing tools, personal protective equipment, fuel and transport costs. His work is critical to ensure the safety of walkers, trampers, runners and mountain bikers who use the tracks, and helps to provide a good visitor experience for those exploring the Otago backcountry. He was formerly active in the Scouts Movement and Round Table in Alexandra and Oamaru for 12 years, and volunteered with Yellow-Eyed Penguin Predator Control on Otago Peninsula for ten years. He belonged to the Dunedin South Lions for more than 30 years, serving in several executive roles including a term as President in 1999. With Lions, Mr Elliot helped establish an annual Medical Research Scholarship, before resigning in 2023.
The King's Service Medal:
ELLIS, Ms Marion Kennedy
For services to hockey
Ms Marion Ellis has contributed to hockey for more than 50 years as a player, umpire, umpire coach, committee member and match official.
Ms Ellis has been involved with North Harbour Hockey Association (NHHA) since 1992, and previously served the North Shore Women’s Hockey Club prior to the incorporation of NHHA. Her contributions as a player, umpire, coach and official have been instrumental in supporting hockey on Auckland’s North Shore. She was a foundation member of the NHHA and an early member of the North Harbour Umpires Committee. She has held many tournament roles, including Umpire Manager, Appointments Coordinator and Technical Officer. She was a member of the Hockey New Zealand (HNZ) Umpire Council in 1998, and in 2007 she received an HNZ Gold Service Award for 25 years of service. She was Tournament Director of the Mayhill Cup in 2017. She has won many accolades from the NHHA, including the 2016 Community Umpire of the Year and Services to Umpiring Award for four consecutive years. She became a Life Member in 1995 and was inducted as a Harbour Legend in 2022. In 2023 she stepped down after 32 years with the NHHA. Ms Ellis has been a dedicated coach to many aspiring umpires and still serves as a match official for Intercity competitions.
The King's Service Medal:
FLETCHER, Mrs Elizabeth Mary (Libby)
For services to the community, particularly wastewater advocacy
Mrs Libby Fletcher has advocated tirelessly for the Lake Tarawera community and the wider Bay of Plenty region.
In 2013 Mrs Fletcher became Chair of the Lake Tarawera Ratepayers’ Association and held the position until 2025. Under her leadership the organisation accomplished several significant milestones, including establishing active volunteer environmental groups and taking pest control under the umbrella of Lake Tarawera Landcare. She supported the University of Waikato’s research into water inputs and quality. She has been integral to securing critical infrastructure, actively championing for reticulation of local wastewater following results from a longitudinal study that linked leaching septic tanks with Lake Tarawera’s decline in water quality. She demonstrated her ability to bring people together, ensuring the final approval of the Tarawera Sewerage Scheme, building and maintaining relationships with mana whenua Te Pūtaiki o Tarawera, the Rotorua Lakes Council and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, and relevant members of Parliament. As a result of her work, the lake water quality is protected for generations to come. Mrs Fletcher previously chaired the Laura Fergusson Trust Board.
The King's Service Medal:
FULLER, Mr William Robert, JP
For services to the community
Mr William Fuller is a leading figure in Russell’s community development.
Mr Fuller was Principal of Russell School from 2006 to 2019, where he also taught one of its classes, and helped to instil pride and understanding of tikanga Māori. Since his retirement, he has become a leader of several community organisations. As Chair and Treasurer of the Bay of Islands Walkways Trust, he has led the development of walkways on the Russell Peninsular for locals and tourists. He also bushwhacked through many kilometres of bush terrain to establish a safe cycleway between Russell and Ōkiato, helping to prevent road injuries and create a valuable tourism asset for the town. He organises the Bay of Islands Walking Weekend events, bringing in around 400 visitors and approximately $35,000 each year for distribution to local organisations. He has also held leadership roles in the Te Araroa Northland Trust, Project Island Song, Bay of Islands Rotary and the Russell Sports Club. Through his fundraising efforts, Mr Fuller has helped to assist many community groups with their projects.
The King's Service Medal:
GAMBITSIS, Mr Leonidas Angelos (Leo)
For services to the Greek community
Mr Leo Gambitsis is a Chartered Accountant who has offered guidance and support to the Greek community in the Greater Wellington region for 60 years.
Mr Gambitsis has played an active role in the Greek community of Wellington. Since 1973 he has been an accountant and advisor for the Wellington Greek Community, the Pan-Hellenic Association and the Greek Ladies Auxiliary of Wellington. He was central to overseeing the development of the Greek Orthodox Church in the Hutt Valley, where he has shared his financial and administrative acumen with church members who have needed assistance. The Cretan Association of New Zealand awarded him Life Membership for his services to the association. While volunteering in these roles, he has helped many Greek New Zealanders with life in New Zealand, assisting with legal matters, visa applications, business ventures and liaising with third parties when language is a barrier. He has assisted with the restructure and management of New Zealand Greek Orthodoxy’s missions across New Zealand and in Fiji. Since 2018, he has been Special Advisor to the Archbishop Myron of New Zealand and the Pacific. Now in his nineties, Mr Gambitsis continues to offer his guidance and support to the Greek community.
The King's Service Medal:
GOUDIE, Mr Trevor James
For services to theatre and the community
Mr Trevor Goudie has contributed to numerous community organisations in Central Otago since the late 1980s and notably is a Life Member of the Alexandra Men’s Shed, the Dunedin Light Rail Trust and the Alexandra Musical Society.
Mr Goudie has been involved with the Alexandra Musical Society in several capacities since 1995, with multiple terms as President. Through the society, Mr Goudie has been instrumental in fostering opportunities for young people to perform on stage, driving a change to the society’s constitution to promote this aim. While on the Committee, he was key to developing the ongoing Alexandra dance, speech and vocal competitions and obtained grants to set up regular children’s theatre productions. He joined the Alexandra Men’s Shed in 2014 and, as membership grew, he fundraised around $375,000 enabling the organisation to purchase a new location and more tools. Since 2015 he has fundraised for the Dunedin Light Rail Trust, working to re-establish the historical Mornington cable car line. His efforts have helped the organisation lease the original cable cars and build a display shed to house them, as well as a feasibility study that has raised the profile of the organisation’s objective. Mr Goudie’s wider community involvement has included Scouts, school Boards of Trustees, IHC and the Alexandra Community Arts Council.
The King's Service Medal:
GRANTHAM, Mrs Jocelyn Mary
For services to education and the community
Mrs Jocelyn Grantham has made various contributions to the Te Papapa community.
Mrs Grantham dedicated many years as a teacher supporting young learners, particularly those with literacy challenges. Beyond the classroom, she has demonstrated strong community leadership with the founding of the Third Space Trust in 2010. In partnership with Te Papapa Primary School, she established Te Papapa Preschool in 2014 to serve families who would not normally be able to afford preschool education. She used her networks to raise funds, approached the Ministry of Education for support, found volunteers to help rebuild an unused space at the school and established the Te Papapa Early Childhood Trust. She served on the Board as Chair, then Co-Chair, before stepping down in 2024 for health reasons. In 2015, she established an op-shop and drop-in centre called Tō Wāhi (Your Place) close to the preschool, which provides inexpensive clothing and household items, occasional community meals, Te Reo classes, barista training, nutrition and fitness classes. Mrs Grantham’s work has had a transformative effect supporting women who were previously unemployed to develop practical skills through involvement in the Tō Wāhi op shop, gaining qualifications and learning computer skills.
The King's Service Medal:
GUNDRY, Miss Sheridan Isobel Patrice
For services to historical research and heritage preservation
Miss Sheridan Gundry is an author who has dedicated 30 years to researching and documenting the history of the Tairāwhiti region.
Miss Gundry held sub-editor and senior journalist roles at the Gisborne Herald from 1987 to 1997. In 1997, she established GEMS Communications, creating newsletters, media releases and proposals for clients including the Gisborne District Council, Te Runanga o Ngāti Porou and the Ministry of Fisheries. She has written several publications about the region, including ‘Isolated Lines,’ ‘Making a Killing’ and ‘A Splendid Isolation,’ a compendium encompassing the history of the Gisborne East Coast region from 1950 to 2012. Since joining the New Zealand Historic Places Trust local committee in 2001, she was made a Life Member in 2023 of what is now Heritage Tairāwhiti. She is leading the effort to repurpose the former Plunket Building into a heritage centre. She is a co-founder of the Ukulele Underground group and a member of a cappella singing group Savvy, performing free concerts in the district. She organised a fundraising concert at the Lawson Field Theatre when the War Memorial Hall was being rebuilt. She joined the Tapuwae Tairāwhiti Trails Trust in 2022, highlighting the history beside local walking and cycling infrastructure. Miss Gundry produced the quarterly Historic Places Aotearoa newsletter between 2021 and 2024.
The King's Service Medal:
HARRIS, Mr Paul David, JP
For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community
Mr Paul Harris has contributed to the Waipara community for 50 years.
Mr Harris has served with the Waipara Volunteer Fire Brigade since 1975 and as Chief Fire Officer from 1999. He is involved in a wide array of community groups, including the Glenmark Reserves Committee, which he chaired for 15 years. He has raised funds for the Friends of Glenmark Church to maintain this century-old structure. He has been a judge for the New Zealand Shearing Sports committee since 1995 and a referee for the World Sheep Shearing Record Society from 2007 to 2024, judging record attempts nationally and in the United Kingdom and Australia. He was Chief Referee for the World Shearing Championships in Invercargill in 2017. He has chaired the South Island Shearing Sports Committee and the World Sheep Shearing Record Society since 2021. He organised one of New Zealand’s earliest long-standing Speed Shear competitions, held in annually in Waipara for 25 years. Since 1980 he has been a member of the Glenmark Rifle Shooting Club and has helped organise various tournaments. Mr Harris has been a Justice of the Peace in the Waipara community since 1998.
The King's Service Medal:
HENRY, Mrs Elizabeth Janet (Liz)
For services to the community and sport
Mrs Liz Henry is actively involved in several community initiatives in Invercargill.
Mrs Henry is founding and current Event Director of the Invercargill parkrun event established in 2018, encouraging hundreds of people to meet weekly to run or walk a course through Queens Park. She has volunteered at more than 300 events, and been run director more than 150 times. As a national parkrun Ambassador since 2022, she has provided mentorship and sponsored defibrillators for newly established events in other New Zealand towns. She sponsors an annual Murihiku Women’s duathlon, supplying goodie bags for all participants, as well as providing sponsorship for other local sporting initiatives including the local men’s football club kit. She has been an Age Concern Southland Board member since 2008 and Chair since 2019. She joined the Board of Age Concern New Zealand in 2023, where she heads the Risk Committee and is currently Vice President. She is a past President of the Surrey Park Early Learning Centre Incorporated Governance Committee, having been involved since 2011. She has supported Green Light Innovations projects since 2017, including sponsoring a literacy initiative. Mrs Henry grows vegetables on her law firm’s premises to donate to local soup kitchens and families in need through Spirit Army, also providing free legal advice for the organisation.
The King's Service Medal:
JURLINA, Mr David John
For services to rugby and the community
Mr David Jurlina and his wife Mrs Nada Jurlina have made significant contributions locally through their involvement with the Northland rugby community and Kaitaia Dalmatian Cultural Club.
Mr Jurlina’s commitment to the Eastern Rugby Club in Taipa has spanned more than 40 years and he currently serves as Club President. He has been integral to the Mangonui Rugby Union for more than 20 years and serves as the spokesperson for the North Zone competition. As a player, he has represented the Mangonui sub-union and the Northland province and, as a coach, he has developed and nurtured talent across age groups for both Eastern and Mangonui teams. He currently leads the Eastern Senior Men's team, who are Mangonui Bell Shield Champions and Northland North Zone Champions. He contributes to the Dalmatian Cultural Club, fostering pride and unity among its members. He has been a leader in the dairy farming sector, continually striving to improve farming systems and sustainable practices. Mr and Mrs Jurlina were awarded a 2013 Far North District Council Citizen Awards for their long-standing dedication to rugby in the region. In 2024, Mr and Mrs Jurlina organised and gained community support to sponsor the Northland Tarara Rugby Tour, involving a team of 25 players with Croatian whakapapa to play three rugby games in Croatia.
The King's Service Medal:
JURLINA, Mrs Nada Linda
For services to rugby and the community
Mrs Nada Jurlina and her husband Mr David Jurlina have made significant contributions locally through their involvement with the Northland rugby community and Kaitaia Dalmatian Cultural Club.
Mrs Jurlina has played an instrumental role in managing teams and has served on the Eastern Rugby Club committee. Her involvement with the Kaitaia Dalmatian Cultural Club has supported the cultural life of the community, fostering pride and unity among its members. She held Secretary and Treasurer positions at both Eastern Rugby Club and the Kaitaia Dalmatian Cultural Club for more than 20 years. She was President and committee member of the Doubtless Bay Kindergarten for more than five years, supporting staff and families and organising regular fundraising events and working bees. They have actively promoted rugby across the wider Northland region, supporting and developing local talent. They were awarded a 2013 Far North District Council Citizen Awards for their long-standing dedication to rugby in the region. In 2024, Mr and Mrs Jurlina organised and gained community support to sponsor the Northland Tarara Rugby Tour, involving a team of 25 players with Croatian whakapapa to play three rugby games in Croatia.
The King's Service Medal:
KAUR, Mrs Gurpreet
For services to the Indian community
Mrs Gurpreet Kaur has promoted Punjabi culture and served the South and East Auckland communities.
Mrs Kaur has been actively preserving and promoting Punjabi language, culture and heritage in New Zealand as a member of the Punjabi Cultural Association (PCA) and the Indian Central Association since 2003. She has contributed to several PCA initiatives, including the Auckland Diwali festival, Auckland Council-run cultural events, children's dance groups, and the Vaisakhi Mela Festival. She organised the Women’s Traditional Games for a decade, runs weekly meditation classes for women and spearheaded the Papatoetoe Pool’s Aqua Aerobics sessions, encouraging Punjabi women of all ages to learn basic swimming skills. She has hosted domestic violence workshops to share information about what assistance is available in the community, has hosted annual Pink Ribbon Luncheon events, and assisted with the New Zealand Sikh Games. She set up monthly blood pressure and diabetes screening workshops for Punjabi people. Since 2015, she has been involved in many impactful Rotary Club projects. As a secondary school teacher, she regularly volunteers to manage extracurricular events, helping with sport teams and cultural groups. Mrs Kaur has been Chair of the Post Primary Teachers’ Association in Auckland East since 2023.
The King's Service Medal:
KNOWLES, Mrs Barbara Joy, JP
For services to the community and to Members of Parliament
Mrs Barbara Knowles was electorate secretary from 1985 for Sir William Birch, Dr Paul Hutchison, and Hon Andrew Bayly across the former Maramarua and Port Waikato electorate, the Hunua electorate, and the former Franklin electorate, making her one of the longest-serving electorate secretaries in New Zealand.
Until her retirement in 2025, Mrs Knowles assisted constituents with a range of issues from fundraising for community organisations to individual advocacy, giving considered attention to each request or problem. Since 1987 she has organised and published the Onewhero Newsletter on a voluntary basis, circulated to 400 local residents, and been responsible for the editing and production of the South Auckland Orchid Society newsletter. She has been a member of the South Auckland Orchid Society since 1984 and Patron since 2018, helping organise their monthly meetings and annual orchid show in Pukekohe. She has been involved with Scouting as a leader in Papakura from 1975 to 1980 and as Secretary of the Onewhero Scout committee from 1980 to 1984. Mrs Knowles has been a Justice of the Peace since 2022.
The King's Service Medal:
MAUNDER, Mr Peter Alan
For services to athletics
Mr Peter Maunder has officiated at athletics meets since the 1970s, and together with his wife Mrs Sylvia Maunder, have been active in various athletics activities.
Mr Maunder joined the Scottish Harriers in 1970 and went on to hold key roles including Secretary and Handicapper. He was appointed as Honorary Surveyor to the Centre in 1975, a role he diligently fulfilled for 30 years. He served on the Karori Athletics Club Committee and the Wellington Junior Committee, where he was Chair for four years. He was also a Chair of the Track and Field and Centre Committees. He was a Newtown Park Commission committee member, and officiated each weekend at the Park throughout the track season for almost 20 years, predominantly for horizontal jumps, high jump and throwing events. He has officiated at national and international championships, including the World Masters Championships and IPC World Para Championships, as well as other premier athletics events across New Zealand and Oceania. He is an internationally qualified road race course measurer, and remains actively involved in course measuring. Mr Maunder was made a Life Member of Athletics Wellington in 2004, and awarded the Athletics New Zealand Merit Award in 2014.
The King's Service Medal:
MAUNDER, Mrs Sylvia Mary Joyce
For services to athletics
Mrs Sylvia Maunder has officiated at athletics meets since the 1980s, and together with her husband Mr Peter Maunder, have been active in various athletics activities.
Mrs Maunder began officiating at Wellington Centre interclub events at Newtown Park in the 1980s. With the Wellington Centre, she was Secretary of the Track and Field Committee for ten years and served a further three years as Chairperson. She served as Centre Delegate to the Athletics New Zealand Council for 18 years. She took an active role in the Colgate Games, serving on the Organising Committee and as Competition Secretary when the games were held in Wellington. She was a Newtown Park Commission committee member, and officiated each weekend at the Park throughout the track season for 13 years as a finish line recorder. After gaining a National Technical Official qualification in 2000, she continued officiating at Newtown Park, as well as at national and international championships, including the World Masters Championships and IPC World Para Championships. She was made a Life Member of Athletics Wellington in 2004 and awarded the Athletics New Zealand Merit Award in 2015. Mrs Maunder retired in 2024 after 40 years of service.
The King's Service Medal:
MILLS, Mr Laurie Owen
For services to theatre
Mr Laurie Mills has been an active with theatre in Howick for almost 50 years.
During this time, Mr Mills has volunteered in many roles with the Howick Little Theatre (HLT), including mentor, creative director, actor, production co-ordinator and front of house worker. He has served as President of the HLT Committee on several occasions, including in 2000 when he significantly improved the theatre’s income after a significant loss in 1999, and again in 2023, leading a public campaign of fundraising for the required roof replacement. He has directed 22 productions for HLT and three for Dolphin Theatre in Onehunga. He directed his first show with the Howick Children’s and Youth Theatre (HCYT) in 1986 and has since directed a further 14 shows. He is a Patron of the HCYT, has been President of its Management Committee, and is currently Treasurer. In 1997, he was made Life Member of HLT. Mr Mills’ contribution to the theatre was recognised by the Pakuranga Rotary Club with a 2004 Community Service Award and with a 2019 Volunteer Recognition Award from the Howick Local Board.
The King's Service Medal:
MISTRY, Mr Mohan Durlabh
For services to the Indian community
Mr Mohan Mistry has been dedicated to the Wellington Indian Association (WIA) since 1987, holding several positions including Executive Member, Treasurer, Auditor, President and Chair of the Board of Trustees since 2023.
Mr Mistry became President of WIA during a difficult time and worked with the committee to resolve several issues affecting the community. He led the restoration work on the Indian Temple Dome in Kilbirnie, the creation of car parks for temple visitors, and earthquake strengthening of the building. As Treasurer from 1988 to 1990 he raised funds and donations to purchase the first computers for WIA. He served as the WIA representative on the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA) parent body. He has been a representative for the Multicultural Council Wellington since 1990 and is currently Vice President. He is a Life Member of WIA and Multicultural New Zealand. His contributions were recognised with the NZICA’s Hidden Gem Award in 2024. Mr Mistry has also helped with street collections for the Heart Foundation, Mary Potter Hospice and the Cancer Society for number of years.
The King's Service Medal:
MYER, Mr Gordon Leonard, JP
For services to the community
Mr Gordon Myer has demonstrated extensive commitment to his community, volunteering with many organisations including the Red Cross, Citizens Advice Bureau, and Howick Lions Club.
In the 1980s, Mr Myer helped to establish Clive Scouts and served as Group Leader for the group which soon became an integral part of the growing community. He was awarded a Chief Scouts Commendation for his leadership. Since 2010, he has contributed to the Manurewa Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) as Board Member and Chairperson. He has collaborated with service partners to create informational training workshops involving government sectors, legal teams and community services. He was acknowledged with CAB life membership in 2021. He has completed his third term as President of the Howick Lions Club, advocating for youth projects including Youth Riding for the Disabled, Camp Quality, and sponsoring students to attend the Sir Edmund Hillary Outdoors Education Trust. Under his leadership, the Lions Club has also made significant contributions to the New Zealand Cancer Foundation, Women’s Refuge, and to humanitarian support through the Lions Club International ‘SightFirst’ projects. He has volunteered with the Red Cross for ten years, delivering Meals on Wheels in Manurewa. Mr Myer has been an active Justice of the Peace since 2017.
The King's Service Medal:
NICHOLAS, Ms Aere Anne, JP
For services to the community
Ms Aere Anne Nicholas (Ngāti Haua, Ngāti Ranginui, Waikato-Tainui, Mangaia, Rarotonga) is active in the Auckland community, particularly South Auckland, promoting local initiatives and demonstrating service, leadership and commitment to community welfare.
Since 2003, Ms Nicholas has volunteered with a range of organisations, including Kidney Society New Zealand, Cancer Society, City Mission, local marae, and the Otara Citizen’s Advice Bureau. She has been vital in initiating programmes, advocating for marginalised groups, fostering cultural heritage, and leading charitable initiatives. She has been a long-time Community Advocate for Pacific Peoples and Māori, and the diverse Papatoetoe community. From 2003 to 2024 she was an annual Award Presenter on the Cook Island Stage and Judge on the Diversity Stage at ASB Polyfest. She is a current member, and former Executive, of Te Rua O Te Tonga Community Group. She served as Deputy Chair on the Papatoetoe East Primary School Board from 2009 to 2014 and has been Deputy Board Chair of Papatoetoe High School since 2017. She is a current Trustee of Te Maeva Nui O Aotearoa New Zealand Charitable Trust. Ms Nicholas has been a Justice of the Peace since 2009.
The King's Service Medal:
O'ROURKE, Mr Patrick Gerard
For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community
Mr Patrick O'Rourke has served with the Rissington Rural Volunteer Fire Force, north-west of Napier, since 1993.
Appointed Controller in 1999, Mr O'Rourke oversaw the relocation of the Rissington Fire Station to its current site, and led the Brigade through its integration with Fire and Emergency New Zealand. He ensured the geographically isolated brigade remained a vital first response to a wide range of emergencies. Following Cyclone Gabrielle, he applied his emergency management training to mobilise the Brigade and wider community, establishing a temporary hub to connect residents with support services, during a three-week period of isolation from Napier and Hastings. His leadership contributed to an additional permanent Community Hub building constructed next to the fire station to enhance community resilience. He is a Trustee of the Tumanako Charitable Trust, established in response to Cyclone Gabrielle to financially support recovery efforts for families in the Rissington, Patoka and Puketitiri districts. He has volunteered extensively in the Rissington community since the early 1990s. As Chairperson of Rissington Community Group since its inception in 2011, he has overseen initiatives including scholarships, reunions and community events. Mr O’Rourke served on the Rissington School Board of Trustees from 1994, including nine years as Chairperson, supporting staff and students through fundraising, camps and other activities.
The King's Service Medal:
PINFOLD, Dr Tania Anne
For services to youth health
Dr Tania Pinfold is a General Practitioner who identified a critical gap in the health service system for young people, and helped establish youth health services in Rotorua in both voluntary and paid capacities.
Dr Pinfold helped co-establish school health clinics in Rotorua in the 1990s, establishing the first at Western Heights High School in 1995, before working with the District Health Board to seek funding to open wellness centres at five other high schools, which continue to operate today. She instigated and set up a health clinic at the Rotorua Youth Centre Taiohi Turama in 2002, which provides free health services for young people aged 15 to 24 living in Rotorua. Within ten years of establishment, the centre was seeing eight to ten thousand consultations annually, assisting with adolescent mental health, sexual health, and other matters. She left the Centre’s youth health service in 2019, having led its growth and transition across premises in early years, and solidifying its sustainable, nurse-led service. She was instrumental in establishing a health centre at the Rotorua Youth Justice Residence in 2010. She was a founding member of the Society of Youth Health Practitioners Aotearoa New Zealand in 2008. Dr Pinfold received the Rotorua Zonta Club’s Women’s Achievement Award – Community in 2007.
The King's Service Medal:
POLIMA, Mrs Enatuleni Ikitoa (Ena)
For services to the Niuean community
Mrs Ena Polima is a community leader and advocate who has significantly contributed to the Niuean community.
Mrs Polima trained as an early childhood educator and has since been instrumental in helping several Niue Language Nests gain licensing certification to operate. In 2000, she established Vagahau Niue Trust with other Niuean teachers, travelling nationally to help revive and maintain the Niuean language. She has supported Niuean faith spaces across Auckland and is a strong advocate in the Presbyterian Church and community for youth, women and seniors. From Polyfest to Pasifika Festival, Waitangi commemorations and ANZAC services, she volunteers her time to many local events. She is a founding member of Kautaha Aoga Niue and her village’s Tuapa Uhomotu Trust. In 2016, she established a support group called Anapekepeka Senior Citizens West Auckland, with the aim of encouraging socialisation and sharing of life stories. She captured several members' stories with the Ministry for Pacific Peoples’ Pacific Languages Community Fund. She has been broadcasting on Radio Pekapeka to the Niuean community via Planet FM since 1987. She is actively involved with the Niue Sports Association and a supporter of the Niuean Retired Services Association. In 2021 Mrs Polima joined the newly established Niue Language Writers Group and has been pivotal in the creation of the Niue Bilingual Thesaurus.
The King's Service Medal:
ROBERTSON, Mrs Jacqueline (Jackie)
For services to science education
Mrs Jackie Robertson has provided leadership as Head of Science at Kerikeri High School since 2008.
Mrs Robertson has held many roles during her 40-year teaching career, including Facilitator for Northland Science Teachers, National Level Moderator and Examination Marker, and contributor to the development of an alternative science course at Year 11 to make science more accessible to all secondary students. At Kerikeri High School, she has promoted bicultural leadership working with local hapū and iwi to integrate mātauranga Māori into the curriculum. She has been instrumental in improving student outcomes in science, particularly for Māori students whose NCEA results improved substantially between 2009 and 2020. In 2010, she played an integral role in researching best practice laboratory layout for implementation of a new facility for the school after a fire destroyed the existing science laboratories. She has organised the Top Energy Far North Regional Science Fair since 2011, and as Convenor has developed relationships with many science-focused organisations like NIWA, Dairy New Zealand and Massey University to organise sponsorship. In 2018 she assisted a colleague to develop a Community Problem Solving team which achieved third place at the 2019 International Future Problem-Solving Conference. In 2021 the Education Review Office recognised Mrs Robertson, highlighting the Science Department at Kerikeri High School as an exemplar for curiosity and engagement.
The King's Service Medal:
SCOTT, Mr Stanley Donald (Don)
For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and civil defence
Mr Don Scott has been involved with volunteer fire brigades since the 1960s across several regions.
While a paid firefighter in Auckland, Mr Scott established the Onewhero Rural Fire Brigade in 1985, serving as its first Rural Fire Controller. He then volunteered with the Eastland Rural Fire Brigade from 1994, helped establish the Tamatea Rural Fire Force in Central Hawke’s Bay in 2011, before relocating to Hokitika in 2019. He is Health and Safety Officer and Welfare Support Officer for Wairoa Volunteer Fire Brigade, having joined in 2024. Identifying that volunteer rural firefighters were not represented on rural fire matters as a national collective, he approached the Forest and Rural Fire Association of New Zealand in 1989 and established an agreement for the inclusion of Rural Forces as members. He then served as a Committee member from 1994 to 2015. He carried out volunteer civil defence functions between 1996 and 2024 with the District Councils of Gisborne, Wairoa, Hastings, Central Hawke’s Bay, Buller and Westland. He held various roles and provided leadership, notably, for the 2007 Gisborne earthquake, 2019 Fox River flood event, and the 2021 and 2022 Westport flood events, as well as supporting the response to the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes and Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. Mr Scott served as Treasurer of Hokitika Lions Club.
The King's Service Medal:
SHARP, Mr Christopher (Chris)
For services to Search and Rescue and outdoor recreation
Mr Chris Sharp has actively volunteered with many outdoor organisations, including as a founding member of Gisborne Land Search and Rescue (GLSR) for 63 years.
Mr Sharp is one of the longest-serving members of Land Search and Rescue in New Zealand, regularly offering his leadership and support as a Search Advisor to the New Zealand Police. As Chair and Trustee of the Gisborne Land Search and Rescue Charitable Trust Board, he has dedicated countless hours to fundraising, governance and securing essential training and equipment. He was a Bush Instructor with the Gisborne Mountain Safety Council from 1969 to 2015 and an Honorary Ranger with the New Zealand Wildlife Service. He was an Assistant Scout Master with the Tokomaru Bay Scouts and a member of the Eastland Outdoor Enterprises Trust, the Eastern Regional Search and Rescue Committee and Te Urewera Conservation Board. In 2005 he became a Life Member of the Gisborne Canoe and Tramping Club, holding several leadership positions while involved with the club for 40 years. He was instrumental in the establishment of Wandersearch in the Tairāwhiti region. In 2015 Mr Sharp was presented with a Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Local Hero Award, and in 2025 was made a Life Member of Land Search and Rescue New Zealand.
The King's Service Medal:
SHAW, Mrs Ruth Philliss
For services to conservation
Mrs Ruth Shaw has been an active environmental advocate for more than 60 years.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Mrs Shaw assisted with rat eradication on Hawea and Breaksea Islands, serving in varied roles, including occasional boat skipper. In 1984 she protested the removal of mature, native trees in Manapouri. She was actively involved in the Save Fiordland campaign that defeated a proposal to construct a monorail access through Fiordland National Park. In 1989, she joined Earth Trust’s fight to ban drift netting in Southern oceans. She was awarded the National Eco Tourism Award twice for her business Fiordland Ecology Holidays. Together with her husband they established the Breaksea Conservation Fund to finance environmental projects, including the removal of all predators from Pomona and Rona Islands in Lake Manapouri, allowing the Haast tokoeka kiwi to be introduced. She co-created and co-chaired the Fiordland Sewage Options group to oppose the Southland District Council’s plan to discharge semi-treated sewage onto land beside the Te Anau-Manapouri Airport, and helped to shape the Te Anau-Manapouri Water Scheme. She owns the Three Wee Bookshops in Manapouri and donates part of her income to the Forest and Bird Society and the Low Vision/Blind Society. Mrs Shaw’s 2022 memoir, ‘The Bookseller at the End of the World’ has become an international bestseller.
The King's Service Medal:
SINCLAIR, Dr Leonie Kaye
For services to health
Dr Leonie Sinclair has been a general practitioner in Rotorua, growing her practice since 1981 to more than 2,300 patients, before gifting the practice on to ensure continuation of quality care on her retirement in 2025.
Dr Sinclair chaired the establishment of a standalone after-hours Accident and Emergency and medical facility involving every GP in Rotorua, which opened as Lakes PrimeCare in 1993 in a purpose-built facility. She played a vital role in coordinating specialists and GPs to commit to the proposal of this centralised medical facility and remained Chair until 2007. She served on the Independent Practitioner Association (IPA) Rotorua Area Primary Health Services Limited (RAPHS) from 2000 to 2019, including as Chair for seven years. She represented RAPHS in primary health related contract negotiations with regional and local District Health Boards. While on the RAPHS Board, she helped establish a scholarship to support local school leavers to attend medical or nursing school. As Chair, Dr Sinclair oversaw establishment of community-based nursing and pharmacy outreach services to support patients with vulnerable needs, and then the consolidating of these services into Koiora Community Hub. The hub now supports thousands of patients and won the New Zealand Pharmacy Professional Service of the Year award in 2017.
The King's Service Medal:
SINGH, Mr Harjinder (Harjinder Singh Basiala), JP
For services to the Punjabi community
Mr Harjinder Singh Basiala has dedicated more than 30 years to promoting the Punjabi language and culture in New Zealand through his contributions to journalism, literature and community service.
Mr Singh’s experience with newspapers spans more than 31 years, previously working for the world’s largest Punjabi newspaper, Ajit, in India. In 2009 he founded the Punjabi Herald, New Zealand’s first online Punjabi language newspaper and an essential source of information for the Punjabi community. As a qualified interpreter he has translated various government policies, including the Ministry of Health guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has served as a member of the South Asian Advisory Board with the Counties Manukau Police, fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the local community. He is a Marriage Celebrant and has been an active Justice of the Peace since 2017. He has voluntarily supported the New Zealand Sikh Games since its debut in 2019, composing and distributing a Punjabi history magazine, providing children with Punjabi alphabet materials and releasing a commemorative stamp. He initiated the launch of Punjabi Language Week in 2020 in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. Mr Singh won the 2021 Service to Punjabi Media Award from the Akal Foundation New Zealand.
The King's Service Medal:
SMITH, Mr Brian Douglas
For services to rowing
Mr Brian Smith (Ngāi Tahu) has coached rowing at Timaru Boys’ High School (TBHS) since 2009, leading squads to success at club, school and national levels on a voluntary basis.
Since 2020 at the Maadi Cup, the New Zealand Secondary School Rowing Championships, TBHS have won numerous medals placing them consistently in the top ten ranking for boys’ schools and finishing as high as second place. Mr Smith has overseen these successes despite significant resource disparities and TBHS fielding smaller squads on average, around 10 to 20 students compared to other schools with squads of more than 60 from large state schools or private schools. From a student-to-medal ratio, his coaching record positions him as one of the most effective secondary school rowing coach nationwide. He is well regarded for his positive impact on the boys he coaches, including some who have achieved national titles and gone on to row for New Zealand at various age group levels. Mr Smith has coached the New Zealand Coxed Eight in 2022 for a Trans-Tasman event and has coached South Island Under 18 teams.
The King's Service Medal:
TALAMAIVAO, Ms Cheryl (Sailauama Cheryl), JP
For services to the Pacific community and education
Sailauama Cheryl Talamaivao has worked across the disability, mental health, justice and welfare sectors with a range of agencies and with volunteer boards and committees.
Ms Talamaivao is currently a senior lecturer for the New Zealand Certificate of Health and Wellbeing with Unitec’s School of Healthcare and Social Practice. She has volunteered with Te Atatu Congregational Church Faith Based Social Services since 2018. She has fostered educational opportunities and promoted pathways for underrepresented groups. She is recognised for her leadership in creating inclusive environments that celebrate diversity, enhance learning, and encourage collaboration. She was co-founder from 2008 and Chairperson of the Waitakere Pacific Wardens Trust from 2017 until 2023, coordinating numerous initiatives supporting Pacific communities in West Auckland. She has worked closely with New Zealand Police as a member of the Waitematā Police Advisory Board from 2009 to 2018, particularly contributing to the Auckland city safety plan. She served on the Waitakere Pacific Board from 2010 to 2013 and was a panel member for Auckland Council’s Pacific People’s Advisory Selection Panel in 2010. She was Vice President of the Public Service Association from 1997 to 2004. Ms Talamaivao has been a Justice of the Peace since 2008 and maintains current social work registration.
The King's Service Medal:
TOLEAFOA, The Reverend Wayne Saunoa Moegagogo, JP
For services to Pacific communities
The Reverend Wayne Toleafoa has been dedicated to social justice and empowering Pacific communities since the 1970s.
Reverend Toleafoa held roles in his youth with the Pacific Islanders' Presbyterian Church (PIPC), including Bible Class Leader, Youth Choir member and Boys Brigade Leader. He was the first Pacific Islander to graduate with a Master of Theology from Oxford University. After his ordination, he has ministered in various positions including minister of the Presbyterian Parish of Kurow, Noth Otago, as New Zealand Army Chaplain from 1988 to 1992, and as minister to Mount Albert Presbyterian Church from 1992 to 2001. He was Principal Chaplain of Royal New Zealand Navy from 2001 to 2013, followed by ministry at Te Atatu Union Parish from 2015 to 2019. He was Moderator of the Northern Presbytery from 2017 to 2019, fostering inter-church collaboration and community engagement. Since 2019 he has been with St Columba's Presbyterian Church Havelock North, where he has driven an Eco-Church initiative to encourage churches to adopt eco-friendly practices in collaboration with local non-profits. He has built strong ties with Iona College and serves on its Board of Governors. Reverend Toleafoa was active with the Polynesian Panthers in the 1970s, working for social change for Pacific communities in the face of media bias and institutional racism.
The King's Service Medal:
TOMS, Mr Paul Gregory (Tomsie)
For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and football
Mr Paul "Tomsie" Toms has volunteered with Te Aroha Volunteer Fire Brigade since 1981 and has been involved with Te Aroha Soccer Club since the late 1970s.
Mr Toms trained as a firefighter-driver and has maintained a high callout attendance percentage. He was Brigade Secretary from 1986 to 1990, Treasurer from 1993 to 1997, joint Secretary/Treasurer until 2001, and has since been Treasurer. He served on numerous Brigade committees for special projects, including to build a shed for the rural fire tanker, alterations to the ageing fire station, bi-annual fundraisers for rescue equipment, and the purchase of two other utility vehicles. He is a Life Member of the Brigade and has continued to promote fire safety and awareness in local schools and through school tours of the fire station. He coached Te Aroha Soccer Club’s first women’s team in the 1980s. He was one of the driving forces behind the building of the clubrooms and moving from Te Aroha College grounds to their present home on Boyd Park. After retiring from playing in the 1980s, he has been a referee with the local Waikato League and has continued to offer advice to the club and coaches on rules and interpretations. Mr Toms has been Membership Secretary of Te Aroha RSA since 1981.
The King's Service Medal:
TROW, Mr Russel Walter
For services to wildlife conservation
Mr Russel Trow (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Hapu Rakiura) and his wife Tee Trow have contributed to the restoration and protection of native biodiversity on Kundy Island, and other islands that are part of the Tītī Island group around Rakiura, since the 1980s.
Mr and Ms Trow spearheaded the removal of the invasive weka, who threatened local taonga species populations. The removal of weka was completed in conjunction with the Wildlife Service by 1986, creating a safe environment for the reintroduction of native species including the tīeke (saddleback), matata (fernbird), and meaweka (banded rail). They have been instrumental in community efforts to make the islands rat free also. Their bird transfer programme has seen Kundy Island become a vital source for repopulating other islands, including Ulva Island and several locations in Fiordland. They have developed expert bird-catching techniques, maintained detailed records to monitor species success, and continue to lead new initiatives, such as successful tīeke transfers to mainland sanctuaries like Orokonu in 2025. They conducted pioneering genetic mixing of tīeke populations between islands. Mr and Ms Trow have built relationships through a collaborative model, working with government agencies and local whānau with mātauranga Māori practices, which influenced the return of former Crown Tītī Islands to iwi management.
The King's Service Medal:
TROW, Ms Teresa Anne (Tee)
For services to wildlife conservation
Ms Tee Trow (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Hapu Rakiura) and her husband Russel Trow have contributed to the restoration and protection of native biodiversity on Kundy Island, and other islands that are part of the Tītī Island group around Rakiura, since the 1980s.
Mr and Ms Trow spearheaded the removal of the invasive weka, who threatened local taonga species populations. The removal of weka was completed in conjunction with the Wildlife Service by 1986, creating a safe environment for the reintroduction of native species including the tīeke (saddleback), matata (fernbird), and meaweka (banded rail). They have been instrumental in community efforts to make the islands rat free also. Their bird transfer programme has seen Kundy Island become a vital source for repopulating other islands, including Ulva Island and several locations in Fiordland. They have developed expert bird-catching techniques, maintained detailed records to monitor species success, and continue to lead new initiatives, such as successful tīeke transfers to mainland sanctuaries like Orokonu in 2025. They conducted pioneering genetic mixing of tīeke populations between islands. Mr and Ms Trow have built relationships through a collaborative model, working with government agencies and local whānau with mātauranga Māori practices, which influenced the return of former Crown Tītī Islands to iwi management.
The King's Service Medal:
USHER, Mr Jonathan
For services to the community and entertainment
Mr Jonathan Usher is an entertainer, businessman and philanthropist dedicated to community service.
Mr Usher has contributed countless hours to numerous charitable organisations including the JR McKenzie Trust, ShelterBox and the Cancer Society. He has been an active Rotarian since 1999, holding several leadership positions including President of Dunedin Rotary from 2006 to 2007 and District Governor from 2014 to 2015. He has successfully run several service stations in the South Island and has volunteered as a business mentor to help others succeed. He was an elected member of the Saddle Hill Community Board for three consecutive terms. He has been a generous donor to various local projects and is currently a member of the Dunedin City Council’s Grants Committee. As a professional magician, he has been a stalwart of entertainment in Dunedin for decades and has performed to support charitable causes on a regular basis. In 2021 he received the highest recognition at the New Zealand Magicians Convention, the Magicians Challenge Award. In 2015 he won a Kiwibank Local Hero Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from Magic New Zealand, both recognising his dedication to magic and his philanthropic efforts. In 2022 Mr Usher was named Lou Clauson Variety Artist of the Year by the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand.
The King's Service Medal:
VAN DE RHEEDE, Mrs Norma-Jean, JP
For services to the community
Mrs Norma-Jean Van De Rheede has served the East Auckland community for more than 20 years.
In 2003, Mrs Van De Rheede established Masada Community Trust in Pakuranga, where she served as the CEO until 2016. Under her guidance, the Trust provided vital services such as home-based respite care for children with disabilities, enriching holiday programs, vocational training for young adults with special needs, community laughter yoga classes, a dance studio, employment opportunities for new immigrants and volunteers, and professional counselling for domestic violence victims. In 2013, she launched Joy’nt Venture, an OSCAR-accredited after-school program for Work and Income New Zealand families. She fundraised for two accessible vehicles for free transportation and designed a fully equipped special needs playground to promote inclusivity. She has also fostered children for Oranga Tamariki, offered respite care to families, and supported domestic violence survivors. As a Justice of the Peace, she provided a drop-in service at the Masada Centre, established a new JP clinic in Half Moon Bay, and assisted at the Botany library and Manukau District Courts. Since 2020, Mrs Van De Rheede has volunteered as a social worker and counsellor with Counties Manukau Whānau Ora’s South Auckland Family Violence Prevention Network.
The King's Service Medal:
WATTS, Mr Ian Arthur
For services to Land Search and Rescue
Mr Ian Watts has been a committed Land Search and Rescue volunteer for 50 years.
Mr Watts joined as a volunteer for the Nelson Tasman LandSAR in 1975 and was a founding member of the Nelson Tasman New Zealand Emergency Response Team in 2002. He continues to volunteer with both organisations, providing training and leadership during regional and national emergencies. He led his team’s response to the Kaikōura earthquakes, the Pigeon Valley fire, Cyclones Fehi and Gita, and the COVID-19 lockdowns. Through his leadership roles, he liaises with New Zealand Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, St John personnel and local councils, who call upon him for advice or leadership of teams deploying in dangerous situations. During his seven years as Team Leader of the Response Team, he has helped it to set up a new base, overhaul its vehicle fleet, initiated a gear inventory system and achieve national accreditation. He has served as Chair of the Nelson Tasman LandSAR and was made a Life Member in 2009. Mr Watts was recognised as a Local Hero in the 2017 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards.
The King's Service Medal:
WHEELER, Mr Henry Joseph
For services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community
Mr Henry Wheeler has contributed more than 50 years to the Rongotea community and has served in the Rongotea Fire Brigade for 55 years.
Mr Wheeler served as the Deputy Chief between 1980 and 1990 and Chief Fire Officer of Rongotea Fire Brigade from 1991 until 2015. He was also simultaneously Chief Fire Officer of Tangimoana Brigade, an auxiliary brigade of Rongotea. He has fulfilled the role of Welfare Officer, following up with firefighters following traumatic callouts, as well as following up with those affected by fires after the events to offer support. He helped patrol with the Neighbourhood Watch Group on a weekly basis for five years He has been a member of the Rongotea Community committee since inception and has helped in several community projects, including helping plant 1,500 cherry trees throughout the community as part of the Keep Rongotea Beautiful Campaign. He was Chair of the Rongotea Pool Swimming Committee for ten years and was a leader in Every Boys Rally between 1960 and 1980. He raised funds annually to cover the cost of the chemicals that are needed to keep the Rongotea swimming pool open each summer. Mr Wheeler was awarded The Year of the Volunteer Medal by the United Nations in 2001 and a Manawatu District Council Community Award in 2023.
The King's Service Medal:
WHYTE, Mr Delano Shane De Graffe (Del)
For services to sport and the community
Mr Del Whyte (Ngāti Kahungunu, Whakatōhea) has supported his marae and the Hawke’s Bay community for more than 40 years.
Mr Whyte was an educator at Napier Boys High School for 39 years, retiring in 2021 after receiving a long-service award. Through his extensive rugby and cricket coaching tenure at the school he helped positively shape the lives of hundreds of students. He has volunteered his time to coach and manage the Napier Old Boys Marist Cricket Club, Hawke’s Bay Cricket Association and Hawke’s Bay Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association for several decades. He has been made a Life Member of all three organisations. He assisted with the administration of several New Zealand Under 17 Tournaments when they were regularly held in Napier. He has been a Freemason for more than 28 years, becoming the Worshipful Master of The United Lodge of Napier, and is a current Trustee on the Napier District Masonic Trust. While a house master at Scinde House, he was a founding member of Scindians Football Club and founded the Scindians Cricket team. Mr Whyte helped organise the restoration of the wharekai and wharenui at Ruahāpia Marae and Saint Matthews Church at Waipatu Marae.
The King's Service Medal:
WILSON, Mrs Isabella (Ella)
For services to the community and theatre
Mrs Ella Wilson has contributed long-term service as a dedicated volunteer, including 59 years with Plunket.
Since 1966, Mrs Wilson has been on numerous Plunket committees across the country, at times as Treasurer, National Councillor and President. She is a Life Member and currently the Secretary of Plunket Trust Queenstown. In 2016 she received the Southland Area Golden Award for 50 years’ service to Plunket. She is active with the volunteer-run Queenstown Lakes Baby Box Charitable Trust, distributing more than 1,000 care packages containing knitted and essential baby items to all newborns in the Queenstown Lakes District. She has been assisting Showbiz Queenstown for 29 years, including as a Committee member and Head of Makeup from 2005 to 2023, and is a Life Member. During rehearsal and production time, she caters for more than 50 people a day. She has been a retail volunteer of Queenstown Hospice Shop for more than ten years. She is the Treasurer of the Wakatipu Senior Citizens Association (WSCA). She is an active organiser of WSCA’s events and helps to serve weekly meals on a Friday. In 2024 she received a 20 years’ service award from the Altrusa Club Queenstown. In 2023 Mrs Wilson was a judge for the Otago Southland Theatre Awards.