2024 Civic Awards

Portraits of 2023 Palmerston North Civic Awards recipients

The annual Civic Awards are the city's highest recognition for voluntary service, honouring those who give up their time to ensure community groups and organisations tick.

Awards recipients have all made extraordinary contributions to the city. We honour them for their service to Palmerston North and its people. 

Since the awards were introduced in 1988, 155 people have received this honour.

Nominations for the 2024 Civic Honour Awardshave closed.

Successful recipients will receive their awards later this year.

Civic Awards roll of honour

Click on the dates below to read about previous recipients of our city's highest honour.

2023

Palmy's 2023 Civic Award recipients have been announced. They are:

  • Steve Stannard – Sports
  • Stewart Harrex – Environment
  • Roy Tankersley – Arts and Culture (Music)
  • Jillian Spicer – Community/Social Sector
  • Maryanne Mechen – Arts and Culture (Dance)

2022

Group photo of 2022 Civic Awards recipients.

Palmy's 2022 Civic Award recipients are pictured. They are:

Rosemary Gear

Sheridan Hickey

Joe Hollander

Peter Wells

2018

Our 2018 recipients have touched the lives of countless people, including some of the city's most vulnerable. Their work spans disability advocacy, refugee resettlement and integration, and community health.

2017

The work of the three Palmerstonians honoured in 2017 spans arts and culture – with theatre, music and sculpture all represented – as well as support for young people, seniors, and those in need.

Junne Bendall

Lyal Brenton

David Edge

2016

The work of our five 2016 recipients spans arts and culture, horticulture, sports, health, social housing, farming, and support for refugee and migrant communities.

Ian Gray

Isabelle Poff-Pencole

Jenny Mair

Margaret May

Stewart Collis

2015

Marise Clark

Marise Clark is well-known for her involvement with Edwards Pit Park, the former clay and shingle quarry in Featherston Street which is being transformed into a native species park.

She has chaired Pit Park People Society for most of the past nine years and currently holds the role.

She is also a founding member of REACH (Roslyn Education and Community Health), which began five years ago to support the Roslyn community.

Stephen Fisher

Stephen Fisher's contribution to the city's vibrant theatre and music scenes stretches more than four decades.

As chairperson of the Globe Theatre Trust Board since 2002, Stephen has been instrumental in the redevelopment of the theatre.

Stephen joined the Manawatū Theatre Society in 1972 and has served as both president and secretary.

He founded the Globe Theatre Awards and has been musical director for countless shows.

Eunice Love

Eunice Love was a member of the group that started selling Save the Children merchandise in the city in 1976.

For 22 years, Eunice prepared the roster for shop volunteers and trained them.

During her 35 years of service to the Manawatū branch of Save the Children, Eunice was president twice and also secretary.

She has also served the community through Scouts and All Saints Anglican Church.

Lilian Rowe

Lilian Rowe has been the roster manager for the Friends of the Regent since 2009, ensuring there are sufficient volunteers on for each event.

There are currently 90 names on the register with 60 to 70 of these people available at any one time.

She volunteers for the mobile shop at Palmerston North Hospital and teaches religious education to Takaro School students and through Church on Vogel.

Sue Trim

Sue Trim has been a netball volunteer for longer than many of us have been alive, beginning as a teenager helping Cath Vautier, after whom Vautier Park is named, with team registrations on Saturday mornings.

At 75, Sue can still be found at Vautier Park well before 8am helping run Saturday netball, a job she's been doing for 43 years continuously.

She served on the Netball Manawatū executive for 25 years and has done just about every job going in the sport.

2014

There were no Civic Awards in 2014.

2013

Julie Ellis

When Julie Ellis's two-year-old son was diagnosed with autism, her world was tipped upside down.

It took her a year to come to terms with the diagnosis and understand what she needed to do to support Josh.

Julie says having a special needs child can be stressful, lonely, confusing and expensive.

She wanted support and to meet other parents of children on the autism spectrum disorder. Julie discovered there was not much offered and while private behavioural therapy was available, it was extremely expensive.

In 2003 she established the Teach Me Trust to support families who have children with ASD or related conditions in Manawatū and Horowhenua.

To date, the trust has distributed $320,000 to local families for anything extra an autistic child needs a typical child doesn't. This could be treatment, a safety trampoline (autistic children can find the repetition soothing) or specialist educational software which recognises facial expressions.

The Teach Me Trust also provides information and moral support.

Julie is now looking for parents of younger autistic children to join the trust as she has recently resigned to focus on helping Josh through NCEA.

In 2010, she started a weekly gymnastics class for children with ASD, providing a less structured environment than normal gym classes and one where the parents don't get stressed because their child is making a lot of noise or will not get off a particular piece of equipment.

She has trained young adults, often trainee teachers or psychology students, to work as autism caregivers helping children with homework and taking them on outings.

Julie organised a social skills course for autistic children, teaching them to greet people, take turns and make conversation.

When Josh was eight they wrote How Joshua Learned, explaining how he thinks and strategies Julie and her husband Tim had developed to help Josh cope with everyday situations like going in the car and having a haircut. The book was published by The National Autistic Society in the UK.

The mother of three is a trained primary school teacher who now works as a writer of graded readers and picture books. She has written two other books about children with autism - The New Neighbours and Samantha's Brother.

She was heavily involved in the production of the DVD In My Shoes: An Everyday Look at Autism Spectrum Disorder for the Promotion of Acceptance and Inclusion for Autism Spectrum Disorder Trust. Julie was a key player from conception to distribution, co-writing three of the scripts, assisting with editing and promoting the DVD. To date 22,000 DVDs have been sent from Palmerston North throughout New Zealand and to 14 other countries.

About one in 100 New Zealanders has an autism spectrum disorder, a figure Julie says some might be surprised about as people with autism are often hidden. For example, children with ASD often attend school part time so they are not visible to other parents at the school gate at 9am and 3pm.

Julie shares her knowledge not only with parents, but teachers and health professionals. MidCentral Health clinical nurse specialist Dina Whatnell says Julie shares practical ideas and strategies workshop participants can transfer to enhance their professional practice.

Julie has been a member of Autism Manawatu's committee, helping raise the profile of the organisation.

Julie is working on establishing a teen social club, changing direction as Josh grows to try and provide what he needs. She is also writing a book of handy hints for parents on how to enjoy their time with their autistic child.

Pat Hickton

While in solitary confinement in a prisoner of war camp in France, Pat Hickton recalled how people had cared for him in children's homes.

Pat's mother died when he was four and until he was 13 and started work he lived in children's homes in the lower North Island.

Pat also reflected on the Resistance fighters and French villagers who had helped him evade capture when the RAF plane he was in was shot down in September 1941.

He resolved to help others as much as he could and today his voluntary service over many decades is recognised.

After some weeks dodging the German soldiers, Pat was captured in Andorra and taken to an underground prisoner of war camp on the French-Italian border.

He spent 10 months there including 60 days in solitary confinement for spitting at a guard who first spat at Pat.

In August 1942, Pat escaped via a rat-infested sewer while the guards were watching a concert. He was once again helped by the Resistance, being taken by a trawler off the south French coast, then on a destroyer to Gibraltar, then by battleship to Glasgow. Pat returned to New Zealand the following year.

One of the Resistance fighters who helped him was Nancy Wake, the New Zealand-born White Mouse. In 2003, Pat read Nancy was destitute and living in Australia. Pat wrote to the then leaders of New Zealand, Australia, Britain and France. He was delighted when he later found out Nancy had been placed in a London nursing home.

Pak'nSave shoppers might recognise Pat as the man behind the Poppy Day stall there. He has taken to spraying some of the poppies with perfume, an added attraction for female buyers. He told one woman who wasn't going to buy a poppy he had been propagating the perfumed ones for 10 years. She believed him.

Pat pins poppies on people with arthritic hands and has been known to offer a twirl in the Pak'nSave foyer to women while their husbands are buying a Lotto ticket.

For the past 10 years, Pat has been the chief Poppy Day collector in Palmerston North.

As with many returned servicemen, Pat wonders why he came back when so many did not and sees his voluntary work as his payment for being spared.

The 92-year-old is a life member of the Palmerston North Returned and Services Association. Since he retired he has been a regular hospital and home visitor, and he helps people by doing their gardens and shopping. He loves gardening and often takes produce from his own garden when visiting.

Pat is president of the King's Empire Veterans Manawatū branch, a position he has held since 2008. He helps organise Anzac Day services and is patron of the Hokowhitu Bowling Club, where he does the garden.

Pat had a long career with the railways and was then employed at the Dairy Research Institute making cheese until his retirement in 1987.

He says some people think life is all about good things for them - no floods, no droughts and being able to pick money off trees. Instead, people have to take the good with the bad.

He had a pacemaker fitted earlier this year, but says he is not one for sitting down. If people need a hand he wants to help them.

As those who nominated Pat for this award wrote, he is always cheerful and will help out if his diary allows.

Malcolm Nicol

The first boxing cup Malcolm Nicol won has pride of place in his china cabinet. It's tiny but in his seven-year-old mind he was the world champion.

For 40 years Malcolm has been the head coach of the Palmerston North Boxing Club and for him the reward is seeing his charges have their hand raised in the air in victory.

As a young man, Malcolm boxed at the now defunct Kiwi Boxing Club, following the gloves of his father who boxed in the army. He credits boxing with having never smoked as smokers were kicked out the club door due to the effect cigarettes had on their lungs.

Malcolm was in his 20s when his two younger brothers wanted to try boxing, so he took them along to the Palmerston North Boxing Club. The club's founder wanted to retire and in 1973 asked Malcolm to take over as coach.

Malcolm's motivation is his love of the sport - he enjoys the competitiveness and the sportsmanship and he has made friends for life.

Malcolm has turned out 46 national champions including Danny Meehan, who won the Jamieson Belt, boxing's equivalent of the Ranfurly Shield. He has only recently started coaching female boxers and had success with Lisa Wamoana, who won a New Zealand championship.

Malcolm has taken New Zealand teams to Australia and Samoa as well as making countless trips to tournaments within New Zealand with Palmerston North boxers.

He recalls taking a boy to a tournament in Te Awamutu. The boy fell asleep on the way home, gripping his trophy so tightly has hand was just about purple. The trophy was the first thing he had won in his life and he wasn't going to let it go.

The club has two training nights a week - Tuesdays for anyone and Thursdays for seniors and the club's 10 registered boxers. Up to 30 people attend the Tuesday open nights.

The club charges just $2 a night but Malcolm says if kids cannot afford it he would rather let them in for free, than have them wander the streets. He has found kids with few prospects often go on to be good boxers as someone has taken an interest in them.

Malcolm says over the years it has been a battle to get gear and a couple of times he has paid the rent from his own pocket. This year, though, he has the backing of a good committee.

Malcolm's wife Shayne is also involved in the club, serving as treasurer, and washing and ironing training gear.

Malcolm, 66, retired a month ago from working in the freezers at Foodstuffs. He recently had his spine rebuilt following cancer and found missing training nights frustrating. He hopes to be walking unaided by December to take the junior boys to a tournament in Hamilton.

Now he is retired, Malcolm wants to spend up to four afternoons a week training unemployed youth.

He organises the club's annual tournament. For the past 15 years it has been held at the Princess Tavern, attracting boxers from as far afield as Christchurch. Entry for spectators is free and the tournament is popular due to Malcolm's skilful matching of opponents.

The gentle, mellow man says there is no use stomping and carrying on when judges' decisions do not go the way of his boxers. Instead he thinks there is always tomorrow - or next week - for another crack.

Helen Johnson

When Helen Johnson was a child, she hit her head on the bottom of a swimming pool and consequently didn't learn to swim.

Stroke forward to 2000 when daughter Keri-Anne, then 13, came home from a Special Olympics swimming event with a certificate and a mile-wide smile.

Helen thought this was an organisation to be involved in and get involved she did, starting as a parent helper at swimming lessons. In 2002 she learnt to swim so she could coach the sport. The Special Olympics Manawatū team has grown from 13 to more than 40 swimmers with Helen drawing in other coaches.

Attending the Special Olympics National Games in 2001, Helen was exposed to the bigger picture and was sold on the organisation.

Helen co-ordinates the Manawatū club programmes and events, supporting coaches and athletes along the way. She has served as chairperson of Special Olympics Manawatū and secretary of Special Olympics Lower North Island.

In 2003 she learnt basketball so she could help start a team. There are now six basketball coaches and three teams in Manawatū.

In 2006 Helen resurrected Special Olympics athletics in Manawatū and currently there are 20 athletes and three coaches.

Keen to help Mike Ryan introduce skiing, Helen donned her skis, but at the bottom of Happy Valley one day with sore feet, she swore never again. However, when Mike said she couldn't attend the 2011 Special Olympics National Winter Games if she couldn't ski, Helen went back up the mountain and had lessons.

Skiing and golf are where Helen is currently directing her coaching talents. However, after picking up the role of head table tennis coach in the New Zealand team going to the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games, she plans to introduce table tennis to the Manawatū line-up of 10 sports disciplines.

She is also a Bocce and Athletics New Zealand official.

Helen helped put together the successful bid for Palmerston North to host the 2009 National Games.

She regularly takes teams to events, highlights including the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai and Athens.

In December Helen will be part of the 22-strong New Zealand team to the Asia Pacific Games in Newcastle, NSW. It is credit to Helen and the Manawatu club that 11 of those representatives are from here.

Helen is driven by giving people with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to do something most people think they can't. She enjoys seeing each athlete overcome difficult challenges as they become increasingly independent.

In 1995 as a parent, Helen began her involvement with Parent to Parent Manawatū, a support and information network for families of children with disabilities. Helen has been a support parent since 2001. In 2007 she was elected to the national board and this year became national president.

Since 2008 Helen has been a member of the Manawatū Horowhenua COGS Local Distribution Committee.

She was a Street Van volunteer for several years. As well as being a team member, she was a co-leader and on the committee.

She credits serving on a Plunket committee and the Milson School and Ross Intermediate boards of trustees with giving her a good grounding in governance, leadership and organisation structure.

Helen, a designer and dressmaker by trade, admits she sometimes gets overloaded, and often used to be at her computer by 5am to get everything finished. She spends about 20 hours a week on her voluntary work.

Daughter Keri-Anne, now 27, still swims and enjoys basketball and skiing.

Helen points to photos of young people enjoying a recent skiing camp and says the personal achievements and smiles make it all worth it.

David Chapple

David Chapple planned to stay in Palmerston North for only six months. That was in 1963 and he is still here, serving his community.

David spent his working life as an architect, often giving his services pro bono or at a non-commercial rate to community projects including Arohanui Hospice and Massey University Christian Centre. He has assisted many church and sports groups with their building plans.

David says helping people was instilled in him as a boy, using whatever talents he had been given to leave the place a little better than he found it.

At high school he received a prize for service - the only school prize he got. He used to run the book room.

His Christian faith has also been a motivator for his community service.

He has held many leadership positions in the Awapuni Rotary Club and St Matthew's Anglican Church in Awapuni.

As a Rotarian David has helped set up more than three Probus clubs, but says he is still too busy to join one himself.

David served as chairman of the Manawatū branch of the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, taking a special interest in the preservation of the Hoffman Kiln.

He was chairman of Across Social Services for seven years and he has also been involved in the Palmerston North Christian Home Trust and Palmerston North Anglican Children's Trust.

David was a member of the Cityscapes ginger group, which successfully advocated for enhanced entrances into the city. He was on the working party which assessed potential sites for a second city bridge across the Manawatū River and assisted in the setting up of the Square Edge Community Arts Centre. He chaired The Square Consultation Group and served on the trust to establish a community house.

David is currently part of Wildbase's push to build a rehabilitation centre at the Esplanade.

When David was a young architect he used to fill his evenings studying woodwork at tech, skills which have come in handy recently.

David has become one of the faces of MenzShed Manawatu. He helped to establish a MenzShed in Palmerston North and is currently the chairman.

David gets just as much satisfaction from the little projects as the big ones, perhaps even more. At the moment he is helping to make an indoor mini golf course for the Marion Kennedy Centre and helping build trolleys for a Blue Light trolley derby in November.

David says he has been blessed with a supportive wife, Helen, and they do voluntary work together including the distribution of Ezee Meals in Palmerston North. David says he and Helen complement each other.

Asked why he has stayed in Palmerston North all these years, David says it is just a great place to be. It is a very easy place to do business and is about the right size, having everything one needs but is not too big that one feels lost.

The final word goes to Anglican Archdeacon Emeritus Bernard Faull: "In his professional and personal life David takes time to notice people and things and to look to see how he can add value to a project or support and enable someone on their life's journey."

2012

Anne Kathryn A'Court

Anne Kathryn A'Court is awarded a Civic Honour because of her sustained voluntary contribution to the people of Palmerston North which has made this city a more caring place.

For nearly 40 years Anne has, in spite health challenges of her own, passionately served the people of Palmerston North through her volunteer work with the Order of St John, Hearing Association Manawatū Incorporated, Diabetes Manawatū Incorporated, Arthritis Manawatū and Sport Manawatū's "Push Play" activities.

Selflessly supporting others in the community, Anne is always the first to offer assistance and provides it cheerfully. She actively supports the members of the organisations she volunteers for so they can fulfil their roles, has helped raise thousands of dollars, has manned offices, organised exercise classes and helped on committees.

Anne can be relied on to help organise or lend a hand behind the scenes. Anne at her own expense generously collects and drives members of the organisations she supports to both national conferences and local meetings. Whenever refreshments need to be provided or a room needs cleaning or when raffle tickets need to be sold, Anne is always there.

A quiet achiever, Anne places emphasis on people and relationships. She has enhanced both the lives of those who run the organisations she helps out at and those whom the organisations' support.

Meriam Pendon Garzon Findlay

Meriam Pendon Garzon Findlay is awarded a Civic Honour for her outstanding commitment to Palmerston North's migrant community and volunteer work with the city's economically disadvantaged.

Over the last 20 years Palmerston North has become more multicultural. Meriam was among the first to recognise the challenges this brings and led the way through her volunteer work.

A Filipino Kiwi, Meriam helped establish the Filipino Club in the 1990s and is still an active member today, serving on the committee.

Miriam helps to keep a close eye on recent Filipino arrivals. Not easily intimidated, Meriam has been known to put herself at risk while assisting women to leave an abusive relationship.

Meriam was involved in the early stage of the Ethnic Council of Manawatū (now the Manawatū Multicultural Council) and takes an active part in seeing that refugees and other migrants are integrated into the community as smoothly as possible.

A founding member of the Shepherd's Rest Trust along with her husband, Meriam helps with the day-to-day work of buying the food and planning the menus. She willingly collects and delivers residents to and from houses to appointments and is always happy to clean up, change rooms or even pick up a paint brush.

Involved with the Street Van since its inception, Meriam is a valued team member. Contributing through various activities over the years, Meriam started out cleaning and preparing the van and still buys food and works on a one-to-one basis with women on the streets.

Barry Hugh Gush

Barry Hugh Gush is awarded a Civic Honour for his lengthy service to Lawn Bowls and his extraordinary fundraising abilities for Arohanui Hospice.

A sportsman in his own right, Barry competed and holds many Lawn Bowls titles. He successfully transformed from sportsman to coach and for the last 26 years he has worked tirelessly to coach others and promote Lawn Bowls.

Barry started coaching in 1992 and became a certified coach in 1996. He is renowned for having just the right amount of patience and the dedication required to be a successful coach. He is more than willing to share his experience and knowledge with anyone who wants to learn.

Actively involved with the running of both Bowls Manawatū and the Northern Bowling Club, Barry has served in many positions on various committees.

Since 1986 Barry has organised the annual Hospice Tournament which consistently raises large sums of money for Arohanui Hospice. To date the tournament has raised more than $100,000 for the hospice - much of this is due to Barry's hard work, vision and leadership.

Arohanui Hospice provides a sense of dignity to the dying, their families and friends. This professional service is only possible because of the generosity and support of the wider community - and in particular, Barry Gush.

This Civic Honour Award acknowledges Barry's passion and commitment to developing others and his unique strength in turning that passion into a successful fundraising activity.

Margaret Elaine Gregory

Margaret Elaine Gregory is awarded a Civic Honour for her inspirational commitment to Lions, those living with cancer, the Hokowhitu community and the wider communities of Palmerston North.

An effective, valuable leader Margaret has fulfilled many roles with the Lions Club of Rose City (Palmerston North) including president, zone chairman and district governor of 202D.

Margaret's passion for youth leadership led to the establishment in 2010 of a Leo Club at Palmerston North Intermediate Normal School. There she has helped guide students in leadership roles and many have since gone on to be confident leaders at secondary school.

Margaret is a valued and dedicated team member with the Cancer Society Manawatū. She is vice-chair of the Relay for Life committee, involving 14 Lions Clubs in supplying food, car-parking and the Luminaria. For 10 years she has fulfilled numerous roles with Camp Quality Wellington Central Districts Committee. Camp Quality is an organisation dedicated to giving children with cancer fun-filled days at camp and beyond.

A patient advocate at Arohanui Hospice, Margaret is dedicated to the provision of quality palliative care.

The current chair of the Hokowhitu Village Community Centre, Margaret has also volunteered at the Regent Theatre since 1998, and serves as a Justice of the Peace.

A tireless worker, it is Margaret's thoughtful, caring nature that inspires others to work towards the same goal, and we recognise this with this Civic Honour Award.

Claire Morris

Claire Morris is one of Palmerston North's quietly dedicated volunteers. She receives the Civic Honour Award for her work with those who have suffered strokes. Claire is a volunteer for the Stroke Foundation, having become involved because the group was short of volunteers. Sixteen years later, Claire is still involved - she gives her time freely, works efficiently, and is always cheerful.

For many years Claire has worked in the pool at the Palmerston North Hospital helping stroke victims exercise. She works on a one-to-one basis with stroke victims before and after their time in the pool helping them to use the showers, dry and dress. Claire manages the roster of those wanting to use the pool, making sure they all exercise correctly and don't suffer fatigue. On top of this she assists with games and social afternoons as well as outings. Her assistance and social involvement has, without a doubt, been beneficial to the wellbeing and happiness of the people she works with.

Claire has a generous spirit. She supported her late husband in his own endeavours whilst raising five daughters. Her volunteering extends to Girl Guiding where she has helped out for over a quarter of a century. She shares the bounty of her garden with those in need, and provides them with transport to doctor's appointments or just to get the shopping.

As one of Claire's nominees has stated, Claire's loyal service over such an extended period can only be measured by the faces of those that she meets and laughs with at the Palmerston North Stroke Foundation.

Claire's ongoing commitment to working with stroke victims is providing a better quality of life to those unfortunate enough to have had a stroke.

Thank you, Claire for your loyalty and dedication, you are a worthy recipient of this Civic Honour.

Mary Leith Rowe

Mary Leith Rowe has been awarded a Civic Honour for her volunteer work with the Returned Services Association, Age Concern and Grey Power.

Since 1977 Leith has been involved with the RSA in one capacity or another, on a voluntary level. She has worked on the executive committee as vice president, and served on the services and planning, ceremonial, awards, Poppy Day, housie, redevelopment and fundraising sub-committees.

She has helped to run indoor bowls, outdoor bowls, social activities and pool club. Leith also played an active part in the women's section of the Palmerston North RSA, Meals on Wheels, fundraising for the Red Cross and Arohanui Hospice.

Leith has organised coffee mornings and afternoons, helped to feed those attending Anzac Day commemorations and organised children's and grandchildren's Christmas parties. She is also one of the team of volunteers who visit RSA members in hospital and works in the Welfare team regularly visiting members in their own homes.

Currently Leith is the chairperson of the PN RSA Trust Fund and has been a trustee for many years. She has been an active member of Age Concern since 1985 and more recently Grey Power.

To date her dedication to the RSA has been recognised with several certificates of merit, a Life Membership and the Gold Star for outstanding service.

This Civic Honour Award acknowledges the work Leith has done in the community and the fact that she has done it for an extended period of time, willingly and for the benefit of others.

2011

Rod McKenzie

Anyone who has been part of a voluntary organisation knows goodwill and good intentions only take a group so far. At some stage there is a need to raise money and to account for that money to funders and donors.

For the last 36 years Rod McKenzie has willingly shouldered leadership and accountability roles in a variety of organisations in Palmerston North and the wider Manawatū.

He lives by the guiding principles of Rotary - truth, fairness, the building of goodwill and friendship and putting his time into projects that are beneficial to all. He has twice been honoured by Rotary in his 32 years of service - most recently in June of this year with a Paul Harris Sapphire Pin.

Twenty years as finance chair for Arohanui Hospice has seen him give unstintingly of his time and professional expertise and he is acknowledged by his peers for his high ethical standards and his excellent fiscal governance.

He has accounted for public purse funding of the Manawatū Community Law Centre for more than 10 years and been treasurer for a decade for Globe Theatre.

Involvement with Gang Show began with driving daughters to rehearsals and eventually resulted in his being financial controller for 25 years.

As chairman of the board of the local YMCA he has seen the gym through four different relocations and been part of the team of locals who have rescued and revived Camp Rangi Woods.

He has worked with Life Education Trust - an organisation that seeks to educate young people about substance abuse. He has also given back to his own professional body - working in a voluntary role for the local Institute of Chartered Accountants for 15 years.

Rod was born in Feilding, and after graduating from university began his working career in a national accounting firm in Wellington. He moved to Palmerston North in 1974 and he and his wife Mary raised their two daughters in the city.

His local community work began with Winchester Street School Committee where he was a member for many years.

Rod is held in high esteem by the legal and accounting professions, the city's voluntary sector, and the wider community of Palmerston North. He is spoken about as a man who is extremely ethical and always willing to give of his time and expertise to the community.

Over many years he has given time and support to organisations in need of sound financial governance and his involvement with these groups has enabled them to make a difference to the quality of their organisation. The provision of sound ethical and fiscal governance is important to the viability of the voluntary sector. In today's environment it is often difficult to find people of Rod's ability and experience prepared to give of their time so generously.

The city is the richer in the broadest sense of that word as a result of his efforts.

Allan Bela Nagy

Some people take centre stage and some people work behind the scenes. Allan Nagy is a man who makes things possible without having the spotlight on him. He has unequalled expertise in all aspects of theatre management and technical delivery. He has given many thousands of unpaid hours to live theatre in Manawatū.

Allan's voluntary work on major productions involves considerable time and work over a 12 month period prior to a show reaching the stage. While working on one show the process is well underway for next year's major show and also for two shows presented at Abbey Theatre each year.

He manages his volunteer efforts alongside a demanding business role as regional transport manager for Turners.

Allan is a founding member of the Musical Theatre NZ Consortium. The consortium procures the theatrical rights to a show, builds the sets and props and makes the show costumes. Each Society within the consortium then has the opportunity to use these materials for their own local production.

By being a part of this consortium Abbey Theatre has been able to join with the Regent Theatre Trust to present Cats in 2007, Beauty and the Beast in 2008 and Miss Saigon in 2009.

Allan's experience and expertise is called upon by local and touring shows to the city. His enthusiasm and knowledge is a great asset in encouraging and promoting quality musical productions in Palmerston North.

He first became a member of Palmerston North Operatic Society at the tender age of 17. Since then he has had an active part in almost every show produced by the society. He's been crew member, technical advisor, has stage managed at least 10 productions and been production manager for a further seven. He's been financial controller for major productions and mentored new production teams.

Allan's business acumen and common sense has had great a effect on the running of the Society, especially during a critical time when he sought the help of ex-board members to successfully bring the Society's affairs back on track.

He has over 30 years of hands on involvement with the Society. He is currently a serving member of the Abbey Musical Theatre Board and is its immediate past president.

He was chair of the executive in the 80s. He has been chair of the facilities and equipment business unit and also runs the Abbey Social Club with his wife, Kay. Both he and his wife have been made life members of the Society.

Allan is a member of the Executive of Musical Theatre New Zealand and is the representative for the lower North Island. In 2006 he was presented with a Merit Award and in 2008 his wife, Kay also received an honour for services to musical theatre in New Zealand.

In 2009 Allan attended a production of Miss Saigon in Chicago and later negotiated a first for the Regent Theatre - the participation of a Broadway, New York star in a Palmerston North production.

When Palmerston North City Council was planning the refurbishment of the Regent in 1996 Allan became a member of the Regent Trust Board. He was a technical consultant for the new theatre rigging and a representative of PNOS. He was also a member of the organising committee for the Regent Reopening Festival.

Allan has had involvement with many Gang Shows and has toured New Zealand with the Royal New Zealand Ballet as head flyman for its season of The Nutcracker. He has worked as a rigger, follow-spot operator, flyman and security for many touring concerts and shows.

Allan's theatre work is a passion shared by his wife, Kay.

The city honours his work and is truly grateful and appreciative for the years of entertainment that his efforts have made possible.

2010

Doug Brew

Doug Brew brings two key skills to his volunteer and community work. He's a brilliant organiser and he's good at raising money.

Doug contributes to both the Palmerston North Community and the Manawatū District where he now resides. Professionally he has made the lower North Island a safer place to live.

His nomination for a civic award is warmly endorsed by the New Zealand Police. Doug served 29 years of his distinguished police career in Palmerston North. As a detective inspector he led the fight against serious crime in the central policing district. Since his retirement four years ago he has worked as a civilian on police special enquiries.

He has been twice honoured for his police work, is recognised for his skill as an investigator and has led many homicide enquiries.

Doug is a talented community fundraiser. His efforts have helped build a rescue helicopter hangar at Palmerston North hospital as well as provide medical treatment for people who might not otherwise have been able to afford it.

His community work includes being a successful fundraiser for Salvation Army and Methodist Social Service Food Drives and a coordinator of the volunteers who collect donated goods on the day of the drives.

The army estimates he has been integral to raising $100,000 to fund the drives and has organised at least 10,000 people over the 20 years of his involvement.

He has given generously of his time to club rugby in the Manawatū, as a team manager, a club chairman and a club president.

Relay for Life is one of the fundraising success stories of Palmerston North. Doug Brew, as part of his work for the Middle Districts Lions Club, has been on the event organising committee since 2001. He's in charge of logistics which means co-ordinating a mini army of service club volunteers to look after the practicalities of a 24 hour event with 2,000 participants. Volunteers collect rubbish, direct traffic, help sponsors, organise furniture and ensure there's good security and adequate sanitation.

All that organising has been a part of what it's taken to raise $2.5 million for the Cancer Society.

Marilyn & Bruce Bulloch

The Bullochs have been jointly involved in grass roots voluntary work in Palmerston North for 30 years.

Marilyn helped establish Neighbourhood Support in the city in 1985 and has seen that grow to an organisation with excellent links to formal emergency services. Bruce is a valued office holder in the NZ Farm Forestry Association - an organisation he has been involved with both nationally and locally.

The Bullochs have worked to strengthen the social threads of their immediate neighbourhood. They have been very active in the Awapuni Ward Committee. They've used that experience to support and encourage others to participate in the city's democratic dialogue and to engage in the submission process. They are tireless champions of green space and environmental issues.

The Railway Land Action Group which they spearheaded eventually successfully achieved protection for land directly across the road from the Globe and Centrepoint Theatres.

They have worked and campaigned for reserve land on Fitzherbert Avenue, for Pit Park, the Linklater Block, planted at Waitoetoe Park, participated in the Esplanade Review and championed access to river land behind Buick Crescent.

Sometimes their views were at odds with authorities, but that is the nature of activism.

They are known by everyone who has been involved with them as very active volunteers - they are a couple you can count on to be there on the day. They're tree planters and walkers and cup of tea makers as well as people with an impressive understanding of grass roots democracy, legal processes and how to fight a good fight.

The Bullochs devote their time to the issues they believe in. As a result our world is a greener place than it otherwise would have been and the city is a safer, more supportive place to live.

John Reddiex

John has been a quiet, tireless voluntary worker in various community organisations in Palmerston North over many years, often taking on one of the most responsible and least sought roles in the not for profit sector - that of treasurer.

He joined Community Shelter Manawatū in 1996 as treasurer and continues that work today as the treasurer of the organisation it later became - Manawatū Community Housing Trust. He has helped negotiate mortgage finance with Housing NZ to ensure there was money for maintenance on the trust's 16 flats, and his excellent fiscal reporting has helped the organisation through tough times.

He was secretary/treasurer of Age Concern for many years and helped create the solid organisation it is today.

For the Manawatū Rugby Supporters Club John recovered the club finances to allow monies to be directed to the Save the Turbos campaign and to local junior rugby.

John has worked for over 25 years as a committee member and treasurer for ParaFed Manawatū and in so doing is a living example of someone for whom disability is not a disabler. His voluntary work record includes involvement with Options for 14 years, Phoenix, the Takaro Sports Club and the Disability Persons Assembly.

John has also contributed his treasurer's skills to the Palmerston North Neighbourhood Support and Palmerston North Victim Support groups, supporting and enabling their valuable work in our community. He is valued by those who know him for his great sense of humour as much as for his steady hand on the organisational coffers.

Maurice Rowe

Maurice Rowe has used his considerable vision and his ability to think strategically to help create one of the most successful regional theatres in provincial Australasia.

Over a period of 19 years Maurice has worked to save, restore and develop the Regent Theatre. This iconic building is today a vital and central venue for the performing arts in the city and is widely used for civic and community celebrations.

Beyond the building is a network of human endeavour. This includes the Regent Theatre Trust Board which Maurice Rowe chairs, the Friends of the Regent which he helped to form and Regent Theatre Promotions which he was also instrumental in developing.

Salvaging and renovating the theatre and creating an operational business structure has been a complex project. Hundreds of people and many hours of voluntary and professional effort have been involved. There have been negotiations, purchases, the development of legal frameworks, millions of dollars worth of fundraising, and the creation and leadership of teams of people who work well and efficiently together. Maurice Rowe was the Regent Trust Board's inaugural chair. While Jim Jeffries chaired through the fundraising stage, in recent years Maurice has resumed his leadership role to consolidate the theatre's operational viability.

Maurice Rowe quietly gets behind the projects he believes in - sometimes he leads, often he sets up the legal frameworks within which others can lead or operate.

While the Regent is one of the more visible examples of his community work, Maurice is also one of those instrumental in the work of the Manawatū Music for Youth Trust. This group owns, hires, insures and replaces musical instruments for a long standing Saturday morning group tuition scheme that gives group music performance to about 500 children per year.

He has also recently helped with the fundraising and building of The Centre on the Massey University Campus and has provided support for the Manawatū Tram Trust. In addition he has through the law firm in which he is a partner, provided pro bono advice and support to numerous charitable trusts and sports organisations in the city.

The law firm in which he is a partner, provided pro bono advice and support to numerous charitable trusts and sports organisations in the city.

2009

Tony Aull

Tony Aull receives a Civic Award for his community leadership, his special ability to connect people and for being an ambassador for Palmerston North.

Tony has an impressive record of community fundraising. His charity work has supported people from his native Fiji, Samoa and other Pacific islands which they have faced cyclones, floods and hurricanes.

At home in the Manawatū his fundraising has provided funds for Fono a Samoa, Pasifika Manawatū, Tagata Pasifika Council, the Pasifika holiday programme, as well as various Palmerston North Catholic school and church projects.

Tony is well respected in the Polynesian community of both the Manawatū and Rangitikei districts. The Selection Panel were impressed by the level of support Tony's nomination received from right across the various Pasifika communities.

He is a devoted family man whose whole family actively support Palmerston North's Festival of Cultures.

The Aull household is a very hospitable one that over the years has hosted numerous functions and fundraisers. The cross-section of people who gather at Tony's home is very wide and inclusive of Pakeha, Polynesian, young and old. In a very real sense Tony Aull helps to create the social cohesion and fun that makes this a young at heart city.

Tony is a respected and successful businessman. Over the years he has used his business connections to help many into employment. In his own workplace he has a reputation for being able to hire and train the previously unemployable.

Business people he meets overseas are often guests in his Palmerston North home and he champions Palmerston North and New Zealand as places to do business.

Olga Barrett

Olga Barrett is recognised with a Civic Award for her contribution to music in our city and for her support of youthful talent in the Manawatū.

Olga is keen and passionate about anything to do with music and young people, and supports music in all its genres and environments.

Her life of music has included performing both as a singer and a pianist, working as a private music teacher, leading a local high school music department and being a music therapist.

Olga's voluntary work in the city includes:

  • Founding and organising the biennial youth talent quest, Reach For the Stars
  • Being a foundation member of the Renaissance Singers where she has been a committee member and vocal trainer
  • The development of a Young Performers Scholarship
  • Musica Viva committee work, adjudication and accompanist services
  • Creating an annual Secondary Schools Orchestral Day and Choral Day
  • Establishing an enviable collection of musical instruments at Queen Elizabeth College for student use during her time as head of its music department.

Olga's work has also been honoured by others. She is a Fellow of Trinity College London, a Fellow of the Institute of Registered Music Teachers of New Zealand and achieved a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow Award in 2008.

For both the Anglican Parish of St Peter Palmerston North and the Manawatū County Club she has provided numerous opportunities for people to enjoy music.

Since 1996 she has served in many roles for the Rotary Club of Palmerston North and has been one of a handful of women presidents of that club.

Olga's community contribution has been made against a backdrop of personal challenges, but these have not prevented her use of her musical knowledge and talent to help people of all ages.

Olga Barrett has made her mark on the community of Palmerston North doing what she loves - making music. She gives of herself and her talents freely and generously. The value of her own musical education has been shared with many as part of her efforts to provide musical training of the highest order, present performances and mentor emerging talent.

Joan Chettleburgh

Joan Chettleburgh receives a Civic Award for her work in public health, the voluntary sector and the wider community.

Joan is a former health professional who has both national and international experience in the quality of care for the elderly and those with disabilities. Professionally she was responsible for managing the change process of deinstitutionalisation of Lake Alice.

Her commitment to the people affected by that process has followed through to her governance work for MASH.

Joan was a founding member of MASH - a large organisation that provides supportive accommodation and care for 380 people with physical, intellectual and psychiatric disabilities. It operates throughout the lower North Island, in Palmerston North and Hawke's Bay. She was largely responsible for developing standards and quality measures for MASH that were recognised by an Australasian award. She has been involved with MASH since 1990 and has served as a professional advisor, a board member, chairperson, and as a leader of quality governance.

Joan has served as:

  • A member of the Manawatū Polytechnic Council
  • President and Past President of Palmerston North Inner Wheel
  • President of Manawatū Country Club
  • One of the establishment group of Manawatū Community Housing Trust
  • A mentor for the Kapiti Welcome Trust whose Chairman describes her as "a very gracious and caring person, who has a passion for giving the best possible care to people with disabilities"
  • A Board member since the inception of Whaiora Trust, advocating for continuous quality improvement in the Trust's service delivery of Māori mental health service within the Manawatū and Horowhenua
  • A Board member of the Manawatū Stewart Centre
  • Chair of the Manawatū Community Justice Trust
  • Team Leader of Health Professional Surveyors for Quality Health New Zealand

Joan is known as a bubbly, lively person who shows persistence and energy in pursuit of her goals. Her judgement is astute and her quiet and positive support of others highly valued. Her contribution to community life has been made in tandem with raising a family of three daughters and being supportive of her husband's significant role in civic life.

Roger Clausen

Roger Clausen has been described in the media as a man of adventure and charisma. He's a Harley Davidson rider who received the Queen's Service Medal (QSM) for his community work in 2004 and was the Manawatū Standard's 2008 Person of the Year. This year he is recognised with a Civic Award for the work he has done for the people of Palmerston North.

Mr Clausen is acknowledged for his outstanding work as chairman of the Arohanui Hospice Service Trust, his services to Rotary, the Lutheran Homes Trust Board and the New Zealand Rugby Museum.

The Hospice Trust annually cares for 500 plus patients and their families and he has worked as a Trust Board member for sixteen years and been its chair since 2003. Roger uses sponsored motorbike adventures to raise money and public awareness for those who are terminally ill. There is a wonderful symbolism about his living his own life to the full while making a continuing commitment to the Arohanui Hospice.

Roger has clocked tens of thousands of kilometres riding his motorbike all over the world including a number of trips with philanthropists Gareth and Jo Morgan.

Possibly less well known is his work for the Lutheran Homes Trust Board. He has been a Trustee for 30 years and was a member of the original committee of St Lukes Church that looked at options for a civic project. This materialised as a village of 33 rental units in Matipo Street and Tremaine Avenue. It provides low cost housing for 35 older people.

Roger is an active Lutheran Church leader - a member of their Pastoral Leadership Team and a lay preacher.

He has been a Rotarian for 20 years and has been a local Past President and a District Governor's area representative. He was awarded Rotary International's highest award for outstanding service to Rotary and the community - a Paul Harris Fellow - in 1999. Not only has Roger made a big contribution to Palmerston North Rotary, he has been recognised for his international humanitarian efforts.

Roger played representative rugby for Manawatū and is a valued member of the management committee of the New Zealand Rugby Museum. He has served on the committee since 1993 and his governance experience and wise counsel is greatly valued. He is currently a member of the team tasked with fund raising for the co-location of the rugby museum to Te Manawa.

Alongside his charitable work Roger maintains a significant farming partnership with his brother in nearby Manawatū and is a successful beef, cropping and dairy farmer.

Edna Downey

Edna Downey receives a Civic Award - the second award given to her by the city for her community contribution to Palmerston North.

Edna received Council's "Community Award" in 1988 in acknowledgement of her services to the Palmerston North Community Services Council, Samaritans, Community Manawatū Journal Trust, the Palmerston North Community Health Group, Age Concern, and WEA. In the 21 years since she has grown into new roles, while bowing out of others.

Edna is supposedly 'retired'. She's a former clinical nursing tutor who has in the last 40 years made an enormous contribution to the wellbeing of local people. More recently she has done this while providing support to immediate family members who cope with serious health challenges.

She did much to raise the profile of Age Concern over many years and was both President and Vice President of that organisation for several terms. She currently serves on the local committee of the Stroke Foundation and is Vice-President of the central region of the Stroke Foundation.

Edna is someone who sticks at what she starts. For nearly 40 years she volunteered for three hours a week at Samaritans and did an overnight once a month.

Edna is currently secretary of Pit Park People - a group focused on developing a special passive recreational park in the city. She also helps oversee and co-ordinate growing plants for that project.

And of course there's croquet - a game she both plays and supported as club secretary of Takaro for 10 years.

Her other roles include being:

  • a founder of the local University of the Third Age
  • on the community advisory group of the Manawatū Primary Health organisation
  • involved in setting up an Abbeyfield House in Palmerston North

Edna is a Queen's Service Medal recipient. Her nomination was considered by Council to be one of those rare occasions when a Civic Honour Award should be granted to the holder of a national honour.

Edna is described by those who know her as someone with enormous patience, enthusiasm, energy and a lovely sense of fun and of the ridiculous. She certainly seems to be a role model for what's possible when an older person chooses to make a contribution to the community in which they live.

Graham Prichard

Graham Prichard receives a Civic Award for his contribution to not for profit social service provision in Palmerston North.

Graham's work for Methodist Social Services for at least 30 years has helped it to provide a raft of vital community services including goodwill stores, a food bank, education programmes for families, social work support and counselling.

His roles have included committee member, treasurer and chairman. He has played an important role in helping the organisation to adapt and respond to the changing needs of society over three decades. Importantly this has included being a strong supporter for the delivery of a bicultural service. Graham was also a keen supporter of a national MSS research project on poverty indicators.

During 2006 it became apparent MSS would need to form its own trust - separate from the broad based church trust under which it had previously operated. Graham spent a great many hours developing a new trust deed and protocols before clearing this complex paperwork through national church lawyers and the charitable trusts authority.

Thus he has been able to leave the organisational constitution in good heart. Graham played a strong leadership role in recent years through a time of significant financial stress for the local organisation.

Viewed historically no other person in Methodist Social Services has a record of service of such magnitude. His volunteer work has been achieved whilst at the same time he maintained a distinguished career in science at Massey University. Botany has always been Graham's first love, but his 25 year long professional career at Massey has been as a lecturer in biochemistry.

For the past 12 years Graham's knowledge of flora has been enthusiastically shared with members of the Manawatū Tramping and Skiing Club's Thursday Trampers where he is a key organiser and leader of trips.

This quiet man gives his time, energy and considerable talents unstintingly. He is known by his peers as a person of great integrity and commitment to the highest standards of professional care and safety, essential to the work of social services.

2008

Ian Cruden

Ian Cruden has devoted himself to a large number of voluntary groups over many years. These include Palmerston North Neighbourhood Support, Prisoners Aid and Rehabilitation Society, the Palmerston North Safe City group, Palmerston North Rotary and the Manawatū Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Ian has a passionate interest in rugby and has received awards from both the College Old Boys Rugby Club and the Manawatū Rugby Union.

He has been strongly identified with Highbury and currently chairs the Highbury Focus Group, the Highbury Youth Transition Club and the Highbury Whānau group where he gives unconditional time and expertise to providing leadership and guidance. Ian is also a former Palmerston North City Councillor.

Roni Fitzmaurice

Roni Fitzmaurice has given nearly 30 years of voluntary service to the Palmerston North community. Roni has been an active member of Project Waitangi, the Workers Education Association of which she was president for over 10 years and a member of the UCOL Community Education Advisory Committee.

She has worked with the Sisters of the Good Shepherd and is currently President of Birthright Central. Roni is a founding member of the New Zealand Migrant Society being a child migrant herself and her community service also includes the National Council of Women, the Labour Party Electorate Committee and the Te Manawa Art Gallery Society. She is a former City Councillor and Horizons Regional Councillor.

Merv Hancock

Merv Hancock is recognised in Palmerston North as a person of vision, conviction and courage, qualities that have seen him serve the community and further the interests of the city for many years.

Merv played a significant role in bringing IPC to Palmerston North, he established the first major university based social work degree in New Zealand and is regarded as one of the founding fathers of the profession.

He was a steering committee member of Methodist Social Services, a keen history student and an expert in social work, marriage guidance and community affairs. Merv is a former City Councillor and has already received national honours. Now he will receive the city's Civic Honours.

George Hills

George Hills has spent a great deal of his life dedicated to two major community groups - the Justices of the Peace and the Lions Club of Palmerston North.

His involvement with Lions began more than 40 years ago and he has seen service as District Governor, President, Zone Chairman and chair of the Overseas Aid Committee for the district. As District Governor he was responsible for over 50 clubs.

George has given 30 years to the Central District Justices of the Peace and has been president of their association. A further involvement has been as a valuable and active chairperson of the City Council's Takaro Ward Committee.

Norm Pearce

Norm Pearce's contribution to the city can be seen through his involvement in St Mary's Parish, Meals on Wheels, Ozanam House, The Pregnancy Centre and as a Justice of the Peace. He has worked as a volunteer at Ozanam House for 18 years keeping the gardens tidy and, since the establishment of the Pregnancy Centre, he has offered practical support and encouragement to the team of volunteer helpers.

As a member of St Mary's Catholic Parish, Norm has the rare gift of noticing what needs to be done and then quietly doing something about it. Over many years he has shown hospitality to strangers, visitor and regulars alike.

Warren Smith

Warren Smith has made a mark on the city extending from scouting to Abbeyfield. Warren has been a volunteer driver for IHC, a Board member and a volunteer for CCS and was a foundation member of the Lions Club of Fitzherbert holding such positions as President, Secretary and Zone Chairman.

Warren and his late wife, Joan, provided a foster home for a number of Social Welfare children at risk for several years. Another of Warren's contributions to the community has been as a busy and dedicated volunteer for the Stroke Foundation for more than 20 years.

2007

Elsie Downing

Elsie Downing is receiving the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the field of sustained community development. Elsie has worked with Girls' Brigade and Care and Share groups. For 12 years Elsie was Captain of the 1st Company Girls' Brigade at Takaro.

She also held the position of District Commissioner and that of Regional Commissioner. She has been praised in these roles for the way that she trained up her leaders so that they were able to take her place when she retired.

After retiring, some 30 years ago Elsie became involved in "Care and Craft" later called "Care and Share", a programme set up for the elderly, lonely and disabled. Elsie took on diverse roles in Care and Share, acting as Convenor for three suburban groups, teaching beadwork to blind people in another, and driving participants, and is described as "very good" at fundraising.

Although Care and Share is no longer active, Elsie still plays a big part in the lives of many of those who attended the meetings - she is active in home visitation and assisting people with hospital appointments. Of particular credit to Elsie is the way that she is described as taking care to recruit new volunteers, and train them to ensure ongoing support of the organisations she is involved in.

Ron Eaton

Ron Eaton is receiving the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the field of sustained community development. Ron's expertise is in accounting and he has voluntarily acted as Treasurer for the Red Cross Society and processed accounts payable for Arohanui Hospice for many years.

It is not just in giving his time to keep the books that Ron contributes. He is an innovative and active fundraiser. He was instrumental in establishing the beef fundraising project which has raised over $1 million for Arohanui Hospice, enabling the 2006 upgrade to the Hospice building, and similarly was a key instigator of the Red Cross Book Sale, now an iconic annual fundraiser.

Ron's service extends to the Rotary Club of Palmerston North, the Brightwater Homes Trust, the Radiotherapy and Oncology Trust and the Milverton Charitable Trust. Ron is described as "a friendly, modest and- genuinely nice man, with great generosity of time, and wise counsel".

Dr Robert Lockwood

Dr Robert Lockwood (Bob) is receiving the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the fìeld of sustained community development. Bob's background is in the building and construction industry and he has readily made available his own and his organisation's expertise to the benefit of the community.

Much of it through his involvement in the Rotary Club of Palmerston North, where he has been recognised with several prestigious awards. Of particular note are the Ivy May Jensen Memorial Homes project for housing of the elderly, the construction of a student hostel at Alafua in Samoa and Camp Rangi Woods in the Pohangina Valley.

Bob chaired the Palmerston North Technical Institute - later to become the Manawatū Polytechnic and now Universal College of Learning (UCOL), giving his own time in leading and guiding the institution through its establishment and its many different locations as it struggled for a permanent home.

Annette Nixon

Annette Nixon is receiving the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the field of sustained community development.

In 1998 Annette received a Community Award for her services, and since that time her work has continued, making her an ideal recipient of a Civic Honour Award. Annette has a driving vision and skills which she has used tirelessly for the advancement of adult literacy, the establishment of the Adult Reading and Learning Assistance Organisation, and Te Whare Akonga - the Open Learning Centre.

Annette's dedication and help to those who have learning difficulties has given many members of the community learning opportunities, regardless of their background, previous education or literacy level. She has wisdom, knowledge and long experience in adult literacy, in basic skills development, and in raising achievement levels.

This experience has been invaluable in identifying the gaps and barriers that exist for the educationally disadvantaged. She has worked co-operatively with many community groups to ensure her knowledge is shared with others.

She has worked to help develop a bicultural community learning centre. Annette is a founding member of the Friends of the Library and has done an enormous amount of fundraising and promotion of the aims of this group.

Noeline Penny

Noeline Penny is receiving the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the field of city history. While it is possible to visit the Ian Matheson Archive now and observe Noeline's work as a historian and genealogist, it is the future generations of Palmerston North who will truly benefit from her dedication to recording our history.

Noeline is an active participant in the New Zealand Society of Genealogists, Palmerston North Historical Society, New Zealand Historic Places Trust and the Friends of the Terrace End Cemetery.

Noeline's projects have included researching Early Settlers to Palmerston North, the 1993 Centennial of Votes for Women, a History of Palmerston North Homes and the Manawatū Journal of History.

As well as her active research role, over the years Noeline has been an active committee member, and has given her time to other community groups including the Plunket Society, the Palmerston North Hospital Library, Meals on Wheels and the Cancer Society.

2006

Sharon Devonshire

Sharon Devonshire is receiving the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the field of enabling people with disabilities.

Sharon has worked as chairperson of the Disabled Persons Assembly, a role in which she has been described as demonstrating a strength of will and resilience of spirit and inner strength that have kept her striving for a better future for people with disabilities.

Sharon is also a committee member of MidCentral Health's Disability Support Advisory Committee, a caregiver with ACROSS, a board member and chairperson of the Ryder-Cheshire Foundation and a foundation member of the REK (Recreation/Education Knowledge) Centre Trust.

Among the many tributes to Sharon Devonshire is this from MP Steve Maharey.... "Sharon has worked tirelessly is spite of her own physical challenges to ensure the disability community had a strong voice when it came to raising the awareness of the many and varied needs within the sector."

Mary Green

Mary Green receives the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the field of community support.
Mary has a background of tireless work as a volunteer in the community.

For nearly 30 years Mary has worked as a volunteer at Palmerston North Hospital, the last 13 as the Hospital Volunteer Coordinator. Of special mention is the number of years Mary spent driving amputees to the Limb Centre in Wellington.

Mary has been a volunteer teacher through the Palmerston North ESOL Home Tutor Group, and has taught English to many new citizens arriving in the city with little knowledge of our language. For 30 years she has been a member of the Palmerston North branch of Pregnancy Help, she has been a valuable member of Ashhurst Senior Citizens and is actively involved in the Ashhurst Catholic Church.

In a comprehensive testimonial to Mary and all her voluntary work, the authors said... "Mary presents a shining example of selflessness in giving, a dedication to helping others without thought of reward, and a conviction of the good that exists within the community."

Alan Johnson

Alan Johnson receives the Civic Honour Award for outstanding voluntary service in the field of supporting returned servicemen and women. Alan has nearly 40 years of service to the Palmerston North RSA, during which time Alan has held just about every position of responsibility within the RSA movement.

He has been an executive member, the vice president and the president for the last five years, has served on six different committees and been the key RSA spokesperson in its involvement with the City Council. At a national level he has represented Palmerston North at many conferences and is a member of the King's Empire Veterans.

Outside of the association, Alan Johnson has a 40 year involvement with the Savage Club, he has been a member of St John Ambulance and, together with his wife, has taken part in remedial reading at Linton School. It is said of Alan that "a lot of his work is not seen by those in public office, visiting the sick, assisting at funerals and looking after the cemetery". He highlights the RSA motto of people helping people.

Steve Williams

Steve Williams receives the Civic Honour Award in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the field of city safety. Steve has contributed greatly to the city's Vision Statement of making Palmerston North "a safe place to live, learn, work and play". Steve Williams receives the Civic Award for single-handedly driving the Safe City Group since he established it 10 years ago.

He acts as its secretary, circulates the minutes of the monthly meetings, presents regular reports to the Police and City Council and issues media statements as the group's official spokesperson.

In a letter of endorsement, it is said of Steve that he has made the Central Business District a friendlier, more used and more popular location for both young and old than it was 10 years ago.

During that time Steve Williams has been an innovator, a fundraiser, a person who liaises with many and varied groups and a valuable contributor to Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design in the central area, particularly around the Square. Steve is described as someone who has turned a negative into a positive and the citizens of Palmerston North can now enjoy the benefits.

2005

Margaret Clegg

Margaret Clegg receives a civic honour award for services to the community. Margaret is a valued volunteer for the Cancer Society as a driver, carer and someone who offers patient support.

Her involvement with the Red Cross has extended for more than 40 years. She is a valuable member of Meals on Wheels and is also involved in fundraising activities.

Margaret has worked as a volunteer with the Anglican Social Work Trust and is an active parishioner of St Peter's Parish in Palmerston North. She is a recipient of the Bishop's Medal which is given for outstanding contribution.

Maureen Flanagan

Maureen Flanagan receives a civic honour award for her services to netball. Maureen is the face, voice and image of netball in the Manawatū.

Since retiring as an active netballer, Maureen has had a 27 year involvement as an administrator. She has fulfilled every duty and responsibility asked of her and they include - Premier League Coordinator, Western Flyers Administrator, Organiser of Manawatū Twilight Netball, Executive Member of Netball Manawatū, Umpires Allocation Officer and, for the last 20 years, Netball Manawatū's representative at New Zealand Council meetings.

In February this year Netball New Zealand awarded Maureen the prestigious Netball New Zealand Service Award.

Mary McKenna

Mary McKenna receives a civic honour award for service to the community. Mary is a trustee and volunteer for the Arohanui Hospice and was on the original fundraising committee to help establish the hospice.

Her extensive service encompasses Awatapu College, Manawatū Women's Hockey, the Christian Homes Trust and St Matthew's Anglican Church. Mary has been involved in the Plunket Society and the scouting/guiding movement.

For five years she was Divisional Commissioner for the Tararua District. She has been involved in organising school celebrations and is a former President of the Manawatū branch of the National Council of Women.

Sister Ruth Oakley

Sister Ruth Oakley receives a civic honour award for a lifetime of service to the Catholic Church. Sister Ruth taught for 43 years as Deputy Principal of Our Lady of Lourdes and foundation Principal of St James School.

For the last 22 years until her retirement this year she carried out pastoral duties at St Mary's Parish. Sister Ruth has been a hospital visitor, a babysitter, a supporter of Barnardos, the IHC, Leprosy Mission and the Vision Impaired, a street collector for charity and a Meals on Wheels distributor.

She also established Awhina - an organisation devoted to the cutting, sewing and crochet of garments for the city's disadvantaged, the weekly distribution of food to families in need, a monthly meeting of elderly people and a mothers and pre-school group.

Michael and Lyn Ryan

Michael and Lyn Ryan receive a civic honour award as joint recipients for their commitment to people with disabilities and, for more than 20 years, to the Special Olympic Movement.

Their belief in Special Olympics has led the way to encouraging others to become involved either as athletes, coaches or supporters.Mike has developed Bocce (botchy), a sport similar to petanque, as a growth sport internationally.

He has developed a bocce training manual and video and is a global trainer of trainers, facilitating 17 bocce courses in Asia Pacific countries. The New Zealand Special Olympics team, under Mike Ryan, has had considerable success in winning gold, silver and bronze medals.

Mike and Lyn have served as volunteer parents for Parent to Parent, a support and information network for the parents and families of children with disabilities and Lyn Ryan is an active board member of Phoenix Supported Employment.

2004

Bernice Horn

Bernice Horn receives a civic honour award for community service. She receives this award for leading the mission group at St Matthew's Anglican Church, Awapuni in its annual fundraising and supporting local and overseas people working in the mission fields.

Bernice provides opportunities for third world people to sell their craft and skills in New Zealand and organises rosters of people who contribute to writing regular messages to people in Uganda, India and Turkey.

She is a crèche supervisor at St Matthews, assists people from other cultures to resettle in Palmerston North and often accompanies Drug Arm on their rounds of the city.

John Lloyd

John Lloyd receives a civic honour award for community service. He has had a long involvement with Samaritans serving for five years as Director.

John has served on the Community Services Council, the Anglican Social Services and Community Development Board and the Anglican Social Work Trust, for the last eight years as Chairperson.

"The lives of the Trust, Trust staff, volunteers, socially isolated seniors, troubled young people and families in our community have all been enriched through John's energy, wisdom and compassions" are words described in a letter of support for John's nomination.

John Ward

John Ward receives a civic honour award for involvement in performing arts and broadcasting. He has shared his enormous passion for music with the community for 50 years.

For many decades he has recorded audio-tapes of individuals and groups free of charge. Letters of support for John and the assistance he has given to many people have come from a range of Palmerston North people including Mobil Song Quest winner, Anna Leese and internationally recognised conductor, Gary Brain.

John has had a long association with city brass bands and, for the last five years, has broadcast a private classical radio station from his home in Elmira Avenue.

2003

Janice Gordon

Janice Gordon receives a Civic Honour for her outstanding service to the community through the support of parents of children with disabilities and her enthusiasm and promotion of innovative ideas in health) recreation and work opportunities.

Janice has shown commitment) enthusiasm and courage while assisting many to achieve their own goals and supported many in their times of stress. Janice established the Palmerston North branch of Parent to Parent in 1984 and designed a family support programme that is still operating today.

She continues to work for the promotion of the Duke of Edinburgh A wards and the recognition of attainment at all levels. She was a founder of the Central Region Apprenticeship Trust) has been part of the Green Bike Scheme since its inception) has been a member of the Local Distribution Committee of the Community Organisation Grants Scheme (COGS) and has held various offices with the IHC.

2002

Ian Argyle

Ian Argyle receives a Civic Award for his tireless work in re-establishing the Sledge Track in the Kahuterawa Valley for city recreation. Mr Argyle had researched the area and existence of the historic track and pioneer settlement in the Valley. The area is steeped in history and the original track had many names including the Old Road, Blind Road and the Kahuterawa Branch Road.

Mr Argyle has been the driving force behind the project and is passionate about the track. He acts as an honorary tour guide for the groups, pointing out special places of interest and historical landmarks. He has published a book on the Kahuterawa Valley area and I believe he is in the process of completing a second book.

The track has been developed within the Department of Conservation's specifications and has a Back Country Adventure rating making it safe walking for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Yvonne Marshall

Yvonne Marshall receives a Civic Award for her commitment to the community in her capacity as a founding Kuia of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori 0 Manawatu, member of Rapua e Kura Tika, and her voluntary assistance with kura over many years.

Yvonne has also served as a City Councillor, Māori Affairs Community Officer, Massey University Liaison Officer and Highbury Whānau Chairperson. Yvonne has become an excellent role model to whānau and together with her extensive knowledge in local history and community networks has enhanced relationships with community organisations.

Her commitment to making a positive difference and her sense of community is commendable.

Kathleen Scott

Kathleen Scott receives a Civic Award for her community service in the area of diabetes. Kathleen is a founding member of the Manawatū Diabetic Society and has held the positions of President, Vice President, Information Officer and Secretary.

She is a strong advocate for people with diabetes and their families and has offered support for innumerable people with diabetes in the city on a voluntary basis over the past 25 years.

A background in nursing has assisted Kathleen understand the needs of people with diabetes both young and old. This year Kathleen has brought to fruition a long term desire to hold independent education sessions.

The sessions have proven successful and will be offered to outlying areas of Palmerston North. She has also been involved in the organisation and running of an adult learning course in Diabetes at Queen Elizabeth College.

2001

Robert Lester

Robert Lester has received a Civic Award for his contribution to motor sports and to road safety in both the Manawatu and New Zealand. Over the past 33 years he has been a member of many clubs and organisations dedicated to safe motoring and motorsports, holding positions on the executive committee of most of them.

His longstanding membership of the Automobile Association has included terms as President of the NZ Automobile Association Inc, President of the Automobile Association Central Inc, Chairman of the Manawatū Automobile Association, and Chairman of the NZ Automobile Association Driver Foundation. He has consistently been an advocate for better standards of driving, of transport legislation and road conditions.

Robert Lester's contribution to motors ports includes his current position as Steward for the Motorsport Association of New Zealand, and terms as Vice President of the Motorsport Association of New Zealand, Chairman of the NZ Motor Race Commission and Chairman of Motor Race NZ Ltd. He is currently Chairman of Sport Manawatu having served with this organisation since 1991.

He has also served on the Board of the Order of St John Central Districts, and the Road Safety Trust. Robert Lester is leader of renown, an organiser and a facilitator of projects. His characteristics include a patience and tenacity and a consistent advocacy which ensure that goals are realised. The existence of Manfeild Park is evidence of his characteristics and skills.

Lesley Mitchell

Lesley Mitchell receives a Civic Award for her contribution of over 20 years as a volunteer in Palmerston North. For many years Lesley has tirelessly given of her energy, experience and expertise to a range of voluntary organisations in this city.

She has been very involved in the work of the Parish of All Saints. She has served as leader of the Riverside Fellowship of the Association of Anglican Women coordinating the Church hospital visiting team and assisting the Anglican Social Work Trust. Lesley is an enthusiastic and active organiser of catering activities, from fundraising events to the annual dinner for the elderly.

She has served as a Samaritan including as front-line worker, trainer of volunteers and in executive roles. Lesley is a member of Community Services Council, and has served on the executive and on grants allocation committees She has assisted organisations such as Save the Children Fund and ACROSS with appeals and fund-raising activities.

Lesley has a particular concern for those in society who struggle - the sick, the lost, the lonely, the unloved and the elderly. She shares with them her gifts of mercy and hospitality. She shares with the organisations she supports her sound judgement, her discretion, a sense of justice and good humour.

Marie Spelman

Marie Spelman receives a Civic Award for her services to the Guiding movement and the Palmerston North Operatic Society. Marie has contributed 25 years of service to Guiding, serving in many parts of the organisation, including as Brownie leader for many years, as editor of the Manawatū regional magazine, as Provincial Secretary, Provincial Public Relations Advisor, and as Provincial Support Leader.

She also took on the challenging role of Provincial Lone Commissioner for two-and-a-half years and then that of Guiding Partner coordinator. As well as providing exciting holidays and outdoor experiences for the girls she has led, Marie has always been willing to help and encourage new leaders to develop skills and maintain high standards.

She has also been actively involved in the production of the Manawatū Gang Show for many years, at various times acting as Guide Liaison, Secretary, Production Manager, front of house. Marie has acted as Production Secretary for the Palmerston North Operatic Society.

Marie has received several guiding awards in recognition of her commitment and enthusiastic contribution to the organisation and the young women it serves, helping them to become confident and self-respecting citizens who in turn make a positive contribution to their society. Marie is also an active member of St Mary's Parish.

John Thornley

John Thornley receives a Civic Award for his wide-ranging services to the Palmerston North community including in the fields of education, communication and music.

John was a founding member of Palmerston North Community Access Radio in 1996 holding the positions of Secretary and Trust Board Director for a period. He has brought his eclectic knowledge and love of music to Access Radio programmes, as one of the many ways John has shared the richness of music with this community.

He was also a founding member of a group publishing a local community newspaper, Community Manawatū. John has also shown commitment to non-formal adult education including in his support and promotion of adult literacy through organisations such as The Open Learning Centre, Te Whare Akonga. He has actively supported this organisation to develop a bicultural community learning facility.

His role in WEA has been of great significance in this community. His contribution to this means of community education includes taking on the role of Secretary for Manawatū WEA. He has been President of the New Zealand Association for Adult Education. John is driven by strong concerns for social justice and has been active through the Methodist Church as a member of the parish Justice and Social Service Work Group and of the Bicultural Work Group. He has also served as Secretary of the Agape Fellowship Management Committee and for a long period with the Community Services Council.

Rita Whitehead

Rita Whitehead receives a Civic Award for services to the Palmerston North community in many areas, including guiding and walkways promotion. Rita was a founding member of the Manawatū Walkways Promotion Society, instigating and maintaining the weekly walkers' programme. She was also a founding member of the Palmerston North Probus Club in 1995 and has been vigorous there in promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for members, and thereby enhancing enjoyment of life.

Her home has been opened for CPR classes for members. Rita has dedicated 20 years to the Girl Guide Association, holding positions as leader of Brownie, Guide and Ranger units as well as administrative positions. These have included Assistant District Commissioner, Provincial Ranger Advisor, and Assistant Provincial Commissioner.

She has promoted camping and enjoyment of the outdoors, including organising very large camps. She has also been very active in Gang Show productions and the National Song Safari and been a wonderful role model for young women in the guiding movement. Rita has been recognised by the Girl Guide Association through the award of a Medal of Merit.

A tireless worker, Rita has also been involved in women's groups and fund-raising activities at St Peter's Anglican Church. She is characterised by energy and organising ability and has shown total commitment in time and hard work to all she undertakes.

Tai Williams Hewett

Tai Williams Hewett receives a Civic Award for his work assisting Pacific Islands people in Palmerston North. He was instrumental in founding, and now continues to participate in and support, the Palmerston North Cook Islands Social Club and Cook Islands Society. Tai was also a foundation member of the Manawatū Tangata Pasifika Council.

He is a strong supporter of the Palmerston North Branch of Pasifika Inc, a nationwide women's organisation. He is a member of the Pacific Leaders' group, the Community Arts Council and the grants distribution committee for Creative New Zealand, and is the Pacific Island representative on the Ethnic Council of Manawatū.

In the latter role he has liaised with other Pacific Island groups and individuals, assisted with the Festival of Cultures and provided a conduit to Access Radio for Migrant Resource Centre workers. Tai finds time to host the Cook Islands community show on Manawatū Access Radio. His provides one forum through which the Cook Islands community can offer enjoyment and understanding of their culture to the citizens of Palmerston North.

Tai is a quiet dedicated worker behind the scenes, and a well known and highly respected member not just of the Cook Islands community but also the wider city community of Palmerston North.

2000

Peter Brooke

Peter Brooke receives a Civic Award for his long standing services to a variety of community organisations, particularly the Manawatū Branch for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for whom he has acted as Treasurer for the past sixteen years. He continues in that role.

The treasurer's role includes keeping all the books for the branch as well as dealing with investments and bequests. Peter has also been responsible for monitoring the voucher system for the spaying and neutering programme, which involves reimbursement of vouchers to veterinarians nationwide.

Peter has also been a driver for the Red Cross meals on wheels programme, organising the Friday roster. He has acted as treasurer for the St Matthews Indoor Bowling Club for 25 years, and has now also become involved in selling 'Ezee Meals' for the St Matthew's Church community service programme.

Peter has given long, loyal and committed service to the community through the organisations he has been involved with.

Ella Hyde

Ella Hyde receives a Civic Award for her commitment to a wide range of community organisations over a long period of time. For 22 years she has been the mainspring of the Care and Craft Centre for the elderly and disabled, taking responsibility for the weekly programme, providing much of the home baked morning tea and lunch and organising at least two mystery bus trips per year for the centre members.

She has also organised two Care and Craft conferences in Palmerston North in the last five years. Her other involvements include New Zealand JForce Association, being a foundation member of the Awapuni Garden Club, being a foundation member of the Scandinavian Club of the Manawatū. She has been involved in the Foundation for the Blind, and in providing assistance at Awapuni and Monrad Schools on various committees and parent activity groups.

Ella's enthusiasm and dedication to helping people and superb organisational skills have earned her the highest praise from the groups she has been associated with.

Susanne McOviney

Susanne McOviney receives a Civic Award for her dedication to the Arohanui Hospice as the Volunteer Coordinator for the past 10 years. Sue has coordinated the daily team of volunteers who provide a 7 day a week, 365 day a year service to the Hospice.

This service includes housekeeping, laundry, weekend cooking, weekly flowers, minor maintenance and other activities. She has also been an active fundraiser for the Hospice.

Sue's job description requires her to recruit and maintain suitable people as volunteers, to ensure they receive appropriate training, to ensure standards and protocols are maintained, to ensure supplies for the volunteer activities are maintained, to keep records, hold meetings, communicate with the Executive Director and Nurse Manager, and above all, to maintain the overall positive approach of the volunteers.

Her commitment to this role has enabled her to bring together an excellent team of volunteers and she has developed her role over the years to become an indispensable part of the hospice team.

John Robson

John Robson receives a Civic Award for his service to a great many community organisations and activities over a number of years. John has been involved with the Palmerston North Brass Band since 1940, and is the current President of the Palmerston North Brass Band.

He has also been a dedicated supporter of swimming with active involvement in the Palmerston North Swimming Club, the Kiwi Swimming Club, and as President of the Manawatū Swimming Centre.

He was awarded a service award by the New Zealand Swimming Association. He has been awarded life memberships by the Manawatū Master Builder's Association, the New Zealand Master Builders Federation, Building Research Association of New Zealand, Palmerston North Garrison Band, and the Manawatū Swimming Centre.

John has also served the community as a Councillor on the Palmerston North City Council from 1883 to 1998 and is a member of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, being appointed by the Minister of Justice to the Disciplinary Tribunal for the Manawatū, Wanganui and Taranaki areas in 1990.

John has been a tower of strength for so many community activities, giving loyal and committed service to the people of Palmerston North.

1999

Norman Hopcroft

Mr Norman Hopcroft received a Civic Honour for his outstanding contribution to the development of youth in Palmerston North through nearly half a century of community service to the scouting movement. Norman Hopcroft has been a member of the Committee of the Te Awe Awe Scout Group for a continuous period of 45 years. His association with the group began in 1954 when the first of his three sons joined the group. Since that time he has served on the Committee in a variety of roles.

In the early days he was largely responsible for the organisation of paper drives and bottle collections, efforts which sustained the group 's finances, permitting among other things the involvement of youth from families for whom the cost of scouting activities would have otherwise been a burden. A carpenter by trade, he was heavily involved in building the original extensions to the Scout Hall, and has continued his involvement in that area to this day.

Despite the fact that he is well into his 70s and long retired, Norman is the person mainly responsible for maintaining the hall, carrying out running repairs, and hiring it out to other community groups such as the local boxing club and Nga Rongonui. The activity is important not only because the revenue it brings helps with hall maintenance but also because it ensures that this facility is widely used as a community asset. Norman Hopcroft is a citizen of Palmerston North who has given outstanding service to the youth of the city over a long period of time.

Beverley Key

Beverley Key received her Civic Honour for her services to the Palmerston North Amateur Swimming Club. Beverley Key joined the Palmerston North Amateur Swimming Club in 1938 and with the exception of the period from 1962 to 1967 when she had leave of absence, has been a member of the club since that time.

In 1945 Bev was elected to the Palmerston North Swimming Club Committee and again with the exception of the years 1962-67 has been a member until the present time. In 1945, Bev began teaching "Learn to Swim" at club level and continued to do this for the next 16 years.

In 1949 Bev was selected as the Palmerston North Club's delegate to the Manawatū Swimming Centre. In 1950 she qualified as a Centre Timekeeper and was an active official in the swimming centre for 12 years. She also served on the Manawatū Swimming Centre Executive, the body which is responsible for the day to day administration of swimming in the Manawatū.

From 1956 to 1959 Bev held the position of Club Captain and in this capacity she was responsible for encouraging swimmers to compete at outside events. In 1968 on resuming active service with the club Bev was elected onto the Committee. She became a driving force and began to arrange the Club's 75th Jubilee Celebrations.

In 1971 Bev was elected to the position of Vice President of the Club and held this position for seven years till 1978. From 1974 until 1978 Bev was involved in the New Zealand Volunteer Swim Service. Over the years she has also been a member of the Manawatū Coaches Group. In 1995 Bev was the Palmerston North Coordinator for the National Learn to Swim Campaign - "Lotto Take the Plunge". She has also been a force in ensuring that the history of the Palmerston North Swimming Club has been accurately recorded for posterity. Since 1965 Bev has also been actively involved in the Guiding movement.

Bev was employed in the Opera House for 53 years and during the time that she was compiling the Swimming Club 's history she took the opportunity to write the history of the Opera House and now has 12 volumes of notes and memorabilia. Bev is the epitome of the term "Pillar of Society". She has contributed so much for the benefit of so many while expecting nothing in return.

Mr Walter and Mrs Shirley Thompson

Mr Walter and Mrs Shirley Thompson received Civic Honours for their time as family home foster parents for the Department of Social Welfare in Palmerston North. It is noted that the role of family home foster parent was an honorary one remunerated only by board payments and clothing allowance for each child. As was the case with Mr Thompson it was the normal practice for this foster father to be in paid employment. Such employment would help support the foster family.

Walter and Shirley gave 20 years of devoted work as family home foster parents. Their great parenting qualities provided the support for 732 children over that time. This is an amazing record of the dedicated work of this couple.

What was also recognised by the selection panel was the less tangible aspects of what they offered to all of those children and young people, namely their love, compassion and consistent excellent parenting. In circumstances when children cannot receive care from within their own families, such good alternative care is imperative, but has not always been easy to access.

The Thompsons however were always there to receive and embrace into their family, often quite distressed children and young people, giving them love, protection and support far beyond the expectations of contracted care. As many members of the wider family testified in the nomination, the relationships established have continued and the Thompsons have remained always "there for them".

The contribution extends beyond the direct one to the children, as it includes adding to the professional field of knowledge for people in the social, medical and other professional fields. The Thompsons have been role models and mentors. Shirley and Walter's commitment is now reflected in the character of those whose lives were touched and influenced and who now contribute effectively as citizens and as parents themselves.

1998

Anthony George Pierard

Anthony George Pierard (Tony) received a Civic Honour for services to the Palmerston North community with over 30 years of active association in a large range of community, social and civic projects and events, where his involvement and generosity of his time and enthusiasm have been truly appreciated. It is known that he made an outstanding contribution to his country during the Second World War.

Tony is also known for his commitment, energy and time supporting groups such as the Manawatū Sports Foundation, where he was a foundation Trustee; the Regent Theatre Trust Board, where he was one of the leading lights in initiating the promotion of the restoration of the theatre; the establishment of the Ohakea Museum, and the Centrepoint Theatre; the sport of hockey where he assisted in gathering resources to provide the artificial turf for the hockey ground, and in his ongoing support for the Manawatū Rugby Football Union. He is an active member of the Awapuni Rotary Club.

Tony has made significant contributions to the Manawatū Sinfonia, Musica Viva, Theatre, Arts, Rugby, Swimming, Golf, Tennis, Outdoor/Indoor Bowls, Outdoor/Indoor Hockey, Flying, Triathlon, Cycling, Motor and Kart Racing.

Frank Barton Greenem

Frank Barton Greenem received a Civic Honour for his services to aquatic sport for 62 years. He has also had involvement with the College Old Boys Rugby Club – 27 years, Manawatū Rugby Football Supporters Club - 27 years, Manawatū Silver Ferns Club, Palmerston North RSA and Kings Empire Veterans, Northern Bowling Club, Executive Member of 3rd New Zealand Division - 2nd NZEF, Palmerston North Probus Men's Club since 1993.

Apart from his achievements at National level he has involved himself at Club and Centre levels, holding almost all positions from Club President, Delegate, Centre Handicapper and Registrar, Blazer Award Committee, NZ University Blues Selection Committee, Delegate to NZAWA – AGM Frank has given sustained leadership to aquatic sports in the region and New Zealand wide, especially in diving training, administration and competition management.

He has maintained positions at the national level from 1972 to 1980, in roles such as NZ Championships Diving Secretary, NZ Championships Diving Judge, and Manager of NZ team to Australian Championships. For 30 years he was Chairman of the Manawatū Diving Authority. His commitment to swimming over the last 62 years has been far beyond the normal call of duty.

Elizabeth Goodman

Elizabeth Goodman received a Civic Honour for her services to the Park Road Play Centre for her involvement and commitment to the organisation over the past 25 years. Elizabeth has not only been Senior Supervisor at Park Road Play Centre, but she has also supported other playcentres both at grass roots level, and at the central districts and the national levels.

She has also worked in Early Childhood Education and has been an advocate for the deaf community. Elizabeth was fundamental to the establishment of the Park Road Play Centre and is now a Life Member of both the Park Road and Terrace End Play Centres. On a personal level, she has worked with individual members of the community, providing support in the caring and education of special needs children.

Over the past three and a half years she has assisted and supported the Manawatū Association for Deaf Children to establish the new purpose-built Deaf Bilingual Unit (English and NZ Sign Language), which was opened in June 1998.

Elizabeth's commitment to her community, and in particular the families of the region, has been appreciated throughout the Palmerston North, Central North Island and the rest of New Zealand through her various roles on the National Play Centre Federation.

Margaret Gibbons

Margaret Gibbons received a Civic Honour for her services to the Manawatū Branch of the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Margaret first became involved in the Manawatū Branch of the RNZSPCA 25 years ago and has spearheaded the movement of the SPCA in the Manawatū, and its relocation to the corner of Keith Street and Napier Road.

The first Opportunity Shop in Palmerston North was organised by Margaret which has enabled the employment of 3 full-time and 4 part time staff at the centre. While managing the financial progress and the legal intricacies of the Centre, she has also been the media spokesperson and taken a vigilant stance for the treatment of animals, and also on a personal basis, supported people in their grief of losing loved pets.

She has served on animal ethics committees both at Massey University and the DSIR, and edited a newsletter for the SPCA for years. Margaret served on the National Council of the RSPCA for three years and was also the main instigator in the setting up of the Palmerston North City Council's Neuter/Spey Scheme for dogs.

Francis John Spelman

Francis John Spelman received a Civic Honour for his services to a variety of community groups, particularly the Palmerston North Operatic Society Inc over the past 21 years.

His other involvements include St Mary's School and parish projects from 1975, Manawatū Gang Show - 10 years, Palmerston North Operatic Society 1991-94, Manawatū Theatre Society since 1994, Palmerston North Hospital Radio -1984-92, Credit Union Manawatū from 1989, and Manawatū Girl Guides Association from 1985.

St Peter's College is also appreciative of his role as a member of the Board of Governors from 1978-82. John has been a committed person, maintaining long, loyal and active roles in all his community involvements.

1997

Anthony William Finnigan

Mr Anthony William Finnigan received a Civic Honour for community service particularly through his involvement since 1962 with the Manawatū Centre of the Cancer Society and its administration, Finance and Fundraising Committees and the Executive, as well as with the Cancer Society at regional and national levels.

He has been a long time active member of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, and a foundation executive member of the Ozanam House Trust. He is a life member of the Manawatū Centre of the Cancer Society of New Zealand.

Also, a foundation and executive member of the Lions Club of Manawatū, Manawatū Budgeting Service and the Natural Family Planning Association, for the last of which he remains a patron of the Association in the Manawatū. Mr Finnigan has also been actively involved in the refurbishment of the Cathedral and the St Mary's Parish Church, and is a Justice of the Peace.

Roger Michael Greenwood

Mr Roger Michael Greenwood received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly to education and science. As a foundation and executive member of the Manawatū Branch of Forest and Bird Protection Society since 1958, Mr Greenwood has played a key role in the control of noxious weeds in the significant reserves of the district.

He has also been instrumental in establishing the Junior Naturalists' Club and in encouraging and promoting education on the native flora and fauna, in advising schools on the establishment of native landscape areas and on "adoption" programmes of native bush areas.

The nature trails in the Esplanade and Tōtara Reserve, and an area of native forest which he has established on his own property as an adjunct to the Keebles Bush, provide an educational resource for the appreciation of indigenous flora and fauna.

As a founding chairman of the Keebles Forest Trust Board, his personal dedication to the protection and management of the Keebles Bush over the last 20 years is an example of particularly outstanding work in native plant conservation.

Colin Allan Kennedy

Mr Colin Allan Kennedy received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly for his involvement in the sport of swimming. For the past 39 years he has been involved in swimming at all levels - administration, at pool-side teaching and coaching and in a technical capacity all on a voluntary basis.

He has held most administrative positions within the Manawatū Swimming Centre, and has represented Manawatū nationally. He has taught thousands of children and adults to swim, helped and corrected improving swimmers and trained competitive swimmers.

A life member of West End Swimming Club and of Manawatū Swimming Centre, Mr Kennedy continues his involvement in the technical side of the sport, and continues to attend and contribute to administration meetings.

Freda Evelyn Larsen

Mrs Freda Evelyn Larsen received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly for her active involvement in a wide range of community groups. A foundation member of the Manawatū Age Concern and Samaritans and a long standing member of the Palmerston North Citizens' Advice Bureau.

Mrs Larsen has, over the years since the 1940s, also worked on kindergarten and schools committees and has been an active volunteer and executive member of organisations which also included Overseas Ladies club, Women's Refuge, Friends of the Library, National Council of Women Manawatū Branch, Peoples Coalition and Labour Party.

She has been actively involved with the Community Services Council and has also been a member of this City Council's Low Income Sub-Committee.

Gwenda Elaine Turfrey

Mrs Gwenda Elaine Turfrey received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly for her active involvement in her continued service as voluntary worker over a period of 30 years.

In many organisations, she has also held positions of office. Mrs Turfrey has been a member of a great variety of voluntary organisations, including the Red Cross (Meals on Wheels), Hospital Library, Save the Children Fund, New Zealand Foundation for the Blind, All Saints Church, Inner Wheel Rotary Club, St Michael's Marae, Palmerston North Retirement Village and the Citizens' Advice Bureau.

Her involvement with the care for the elderly, the Church and other community groups continues at the present time, while a resident of a retirement village.

1996

Keith Arnold Bennett

Keith Arnold Bennett received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly to education through his involvement on school committees, board of governors, parent teacher associations, the Queen Elizabeth College Education Trust, Queen Elizabeth College Old Pupils Association, Secondary Schools Boards Association and the Palmerston North Teachers College Council.

He has also made a notable contribution in the areas of sport and recreation through his involvement in Young Farmer Clubs, the Manawatū and West Coast Agricultural and Pastoral Show, Pony Clubs, Central Districts Equestrian Federation, Manawatū-Oroua Boys and Girls Agricultural Club, and Rotary.

Joan Myrtle Carmichael

Mrs Joan Myrtle Carmichael received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly for her involvement with the Salvation Army in working with people in the area of alcoholic and drug dependency, and with those suffering from co-dependency. She also works with those with both physical and mental disabilities. Mrs Carmichael was a team leader with the Victim Support Group, and gives volunteer support as a Civil Defence leader.

William Harry Alexander Clarke

William Harry Alexander Clarke received a Civic Honour for services to the Manawatū Community through his involvement with the Manawatū Tree Trust, its most notable project being the 'Shade Trees in Schools' project initiated by the Trust in 1990.

Through his concern for the overall direction and prosperity of all sport in Palmerston North and the greater Manawatū area grew his vision of establishing the Manawatū Sports Foundation, of which he was a foundation trustee and some years later Chairperson of the Trust Board.

Shirley Heaphy

Mrs Shirley Heaphy received a Civic Honour for community service. Mrs Heaphy was a founder of the Awapuni Community Centre, was the Co-Founder of the Awapuni Recreation Centre and was involved in the establishment of the Awapuni Library.

As a member of St Marks Presbyterian Church, she has been actively involved in community awareness networks, especially neighbourhood support since its inception more than ten years ago. She was also a member of the Palmerston North Victim Support Steering Committee and the Manawatū Road Safety Organisation, since 1986.

Fuimaono Karl Pulotu-Endemann

Fuimaono Karl Pulotu-Endemann received a Civic Honour for community service for his contribution to a wide range of community organisations. He was a founding Council member of the Manawatū Tangata Pasifika Council, a member of the Palmerston North City Council Caccia Birch Trust Board, Palmerston North Housing Corporation Allocation Committee, Palmerston North Samoan Advisory Committee, Pacific Island Aids Trust, Palmerston North Aids Collective, and a patron of the Massey University Samoan Students' Association.

Ethel Rita Robinson

Mrs Ethel Rita Robinson received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly through her involvement in Birthright, as a volunteer field worker and, since 1974, a member of the Executive Committee of the branch.

She has also given volunteer support to organisations such as the Samaritans (for over ten years), is a life member of the Manawatū Branch of the National Council of Women, is a founder member of the Widowed Friendship Club, an executive committee member of Manawatū Age Concern Council, a member of the Community Services Council, and a life member of both the Manawatū Multiple Sclerosis Society and the New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Sylvia Vine Sheat Rumball

Dr Sylvia Vine Sheat Rumball received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly for her involvement in education and in the establishment of the Science Centre and Manawatū Museum, from the original proposal, to her current role as a member of the Trust Board. She has also been involved in organisations such as the Federation of University Women, La Leche League and the Institute of Chemistry.

1995

Agnes Ruth Colling

Mrs Agnes Ruth Colling received a Civic Honour for community service, particularly in regard to her membership with the Manawatū Branch of the National Council of Women for 30 years. Her involvement with the Association of Anglican Women, the St Crispan Group for 20 years including services as Treasurer for the Wellington Diocese for 10 years is also significant.

She has also worked with St Peter's Church community, Multiple Sclerosis Society and services to Meals on Wheels. During her involvement with the Association of Anglican Women she was noted for her strong sense of commitment and high ideals. She is always ready to help in a practical way and comfort others in times of bereavement and illness.

Agnes took on roles as President, Secretary, and Treasurer and committee member in her local group and for 10 years Wellington Diocesan Treasurer. It was said that she is a great ambassador for the aims of the Association which are: "To unite in prayer and participate in the Mission of the Church" and "To promote, safeguard and nurture Christian Family Life".

As a member of the National Council of Women, Agnes has had 30 years active membership and was awarded Life Membership in 1991. Through her wide involvement Agnes has become an expert on social concerns and a forthright and clear presenter of the issues.

She is of considerable assistance to the National Council of Women New Zealand for her strategic thinking on management structure. Agnes is caring woman whose community work has been an extension of her strong faith, and has been carried out while bringing up her family on her own.

John Stanley Devonport

Mr John Stanley Devonport received a Civic Honour for services to the Order of St John which continued for 27 years and his assistance and volunteer work as medical assistant to the Outpatients Department of Palmerston North Public Hospital and membership to IHC Committees, the Hokowhitu Bowling Club, Wesley Church and the Methodist Social Services.

Alison Grant

Mrs Alison Grant received a Civic Honour for community service to a wide range of community organisations, in particular her service to the Palmerston North Harrier Club for the last 20 years and her ongoing involvement in promoting running for women, children and veterans as a healthy lifestyle.

She also has been involved in organisations such as Le Leche League, Samaritan counselling, Parent Centre, Home Birth Association, Special Olympics Committee, Ross Intermediate School, Palmerston North Montessori Association, Korero International Toastmistress, Thistle Caledonian Society, Manawatū Women's Writers Association among other involvements.

Ropata Karamana Tamehana

Mr Ropata Karamana Tamehana received a Civic Honour for services to the Manawatū community over the last 15 years, particularly with regard to Māori in the promotion of Māori culture and protocol for local organisations. He has also given outstanding support to Māori people in health, education, employment and social services.

The Selection Panel in acknowledging that Mr Tamehana was not living in the City boundaries but that having considered the scope of his commitment and activities in Palmerston North City recommended that he be considered eligible for nomination.

Mrs Marion Valentine

Mrs Marion Valentine received a Civic Honour for community service, in particular for her outstanding involvement in the Plunket, Girl Guide Movement, Manawatū Spinners and Weavers Guild and related craft organisations. She has given volunteer support to Hokowhitu Primary, Normal and Intermediate schools and Awatapu College.

1994

There were no awards in 1994.

1993

Patricia Mary Anne Eyles

Mrs Patricia Mary Anne Eyles, advocate for children's health/safety and well being of all citizens. She has worked hard to secure a better standard for children especially in lobbying for secure pool fencing, satisfactory child car seats restraining and education of mothers/caregivers, teenagers and children.

She was an active member of the Plunket Society starting in 1976, and was made a honorary life member of the Palmerston North branch in 1992. As a member of the Plunket Society, and till 1985 she had held positions as secretary, vice president, and president.

In 1985 she was elected New Zealand Councillor and in 1986 Executive Councillor. She has been involved in many aspects of child health including the first car seat restraint campaign, rewriting a home help and child care course, Management Committee of the Plunket and Karitane Family Centre in Palmerston North, started the first Plunket Tots and Toddlers course, was a member of the Palmerston North Pool Safety Committee, and many other activities.

Mina McKenzie

Mina McKenzie was instrumental in establishing a museum in the city, and has been active in many community groups including the Rangitāne Māori Committee, Historic Places Trust, and served on the Manawatū-Whanganui Area Health Board.

She was the Chairperson of the Cultural Conservation Advisory Council to Minister of Internal Affairs 1987-1993, a member of Te Māori Exhibition Management Committee 1985-88 and many other positions.

Ormond Poppleton

Ormond Poppleton was awarded for Community Service, in particular for his outstanding service to the Palmerston North Returned Services Association, and anyone who needs help with forms, taxes, hospital visiting or grocery shopping, also serving on numerous committees, and his unselfish service visiting hospitals, private homes and his untiring assistance to those in need of help.

Maureen Raisin

Miss Maureen Raisin was awarded the Civic Honour for Community Service to a wide range of community organisations, in particular for her service to the city through the Hearing Association, the Red Cross Society, Amputee Society of Manawatū, Business Girls Association, YWCA, Manawatū Competitions Society, Manawatū Cancer Society and the Palmerston North Hospital Radio.

Maureen was involved in YWCA - Younger Business Girls 1940-46, Palmerston North Business Girls Club, as a committee member for 20 years. YWCA Board member as Vice President and Chairman of the Hostel (1967-1980).

In the Manawatu Dutch Community, Maureen helped organise their St Nicholas procession. Maureen was also involved in the Palmerston North Little Theatre Society as a member, committee member and producer for junior members' productions. In the New Zealand Players Theatre Trust, Maureen was local secretary from inception till its demise.

Maureen was a member of the Catholic Women's League and its committees. In the Manawatū Competitions Society, Maureen was competitor and a convenor for the speech, vocal and instrumental sections. She was an executive member for 25 years. For the Palmerston North City Centennial Aria Contest, Maureen was assistant organiser in 1971 and convenor for contest in 1973-75 and 77. Maureen was teacher, member and committee member for many years of the Palmerston North Teachers of Speech and Drama.

In the Hard of Hearing Society, Maureen was helper and tutor for many years. In Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Council, Maureen was member of the council for many years and chairman for one year.

Maureen was Announcer and Vice President for over 10 years for the Palmerston North Hospital Radio Volunteers. In the Manawatū Amputee Society Inc, Maureen was Manawatū President and New Zealand Federation Vice President. As a member and an amputee for over 46 years, she was instrumental in forming the Society in Palmerston North.

The Cancer Society enjoyed Maureen as a volunteer driver for patients to the Cobalt Department for about 10 years. Maureen was a corporate member of Manawatū Disabled Person's Association.

Lorna Catherine Willis

Lorna Catherine Willis received an award for Community Service, in particular for her service to the Girl Guides Association for over 20 years. She was District Commissioner for five years, Division Commissioner for five years and held the post of Provincial Commissioner of the Manawatū Province for 5 years.

She became a Provincial Council Elected Member in 1990 and was a Commissioner trainer from 1977-1983 as member on the Camp Committee since 1985, she was the Camp Equipment Convenor from 1987-1991. Lorna has been an active driver and organiser of helpers with the Meals on Wheels service.

In the Manawatū Golf Club for the past 25 years she was a valued member and for five years as secretary of the ladies section of the club. Lorna has been a member of Hokowhitu Amateur Swimming Club since 1974 and has served on the Club's Management Committee and held the secretary and treasurer positions. She is a national qualified time keeper and has been awarded the Honours Blazer Pocket for 15 years continuous effort.

1992

Thomas Boyens

Mr Thomas Boyens received a Civic Honour for community service; in particular for his service to the Order of St John, the Manawatū Branch of the Epilepsy Association and various other community based groups.

Mr Boyens has served the local Order of St Johns for twenty four years and in 1990 was granted life membership of the Palmerston North Area of the Order. Mr Boyens has been an active member of the Manawatū Branch of the NZ Epilepsy Association since 1970, undertaking the duties of President and Treasurer for much of this time.

He was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Manawatū Branch in May of last year. He has been a regular blood donor since 1961. Mr Boyens is a very efficient fund raiser and has used his skills to assist many organisations. Mr Boyens has been an active member of the Palmerston North Golf Club, the Manawatū Cricket Association and the Freyberg Old Boys Rugby Club serving in a number of capacities including that of coach, masseur, honorary secretary, vice captain and handicap officer.

John King

Mr John King received a Civic Honour for community service, in particular for his service to the Ashhurst community, his commitment as a Councillor on the Oroua County Council and his involvement in a number of major community projects in Ashhurst. When Mr King believes in something, he gives it his solid support.

He has represented the community of Ashhurst on many bodies and in many capacities since he was elected to Ashhurst County Town Committee in 1958. Some of the activities in which has taken a leading role are the Village Valley Centre, the sewerage system, the upgrading of the Ashhurst Domain and Lincoln Park.

Mr King has been a Trustee of the Methodist Church in Ashhurst for 28 years and used his skill as a builder to build the Bunnythorpe Methodist church and the new Methodist Parsonage in Ashhurst.

Rebecca Oaten

Mrs Rebecca Oaten received a Civic Honour for community service, in particular for her outstanding work as the "Helmet Lady" promoting the wearing of cycle helmets both locally and nationally. Mrs Oaten, nationally known as "The Helmet Lady" has been campaigning to have all cyclists wear helmets since her son Aaron was involved in an accident in 1986.

Palmerston North, being her home town, was the starting place for the campaign and in 1990 led the country in helmet wearing numbers in schools and colleges. Mrs Oaten is a woman of great strength and determination and as a direct result of her campaigning, cycle helmet wearing will soon become compulsory for all cyclists.

Mrs Oaten was awarded the 1990 Commemoration Medal for her services to New Zealand, Rotary have made her a "Paul Harris Fellow" - an award rarely given outside Rotary circles, and in 1989 she received the Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Award. Her work has also been recognised by the Wellington City Council who honoured her with the Knight of the Road Award.

Elizabeth Sivyer

Mrs Elizabeth Sivyer received a Civic Honour for community service to a wide range of community organisations, in particular for her service to the city through the National Council of Women, Zonta International, working with refugee families, the New Zealand Federation of University Women, St Andrews Presbyterian Church, and Save the Children Fund.

Mrs Sivyer was born to Russian refugee parents in Bulgaria and came to New Zealand in 1946. Since that time she has become very involved in the Palmerston North community. Soon after her arrival she went to Queen Elizabeth night school to learn how to cook "NZ style" and soon became a regular teacher at the night school, teaching English to new immigrants.

Mrs Sivyer taught French and Russian for Massey and the Fitzherbert West Science staff. Her particular skill and interest in promoting women's affairs and her interest in other cultures, especially minority groups, has meant she has given dedicated service to voluntary organisations the city including St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Zonta International, National Council of Women and the Federation of University Women.

Garth Wallace

Dr Garth Wallace received a Civic Honour for community service, in particular for his service to the Arohanui Hospice Trust and his dedication to the building of the Arohanui Hospice, his work with the Brightwater Home Trust and involvement with the Rotary Club of Milson.

Dr Wallace has played a strong role in church and community service throughout his working life and in retirement. He has been a member of the Milson Rotary Club since 1973, serving as president and receiving in 1981, a Paul Harris Fellowship for an outstanding contribution. Dr Wallace was a member of the Brightwater Home Trust that established the Brightwater Villas.

In 1983 Dr Wallace began working towards the establishment of a hospice in the City and in 1984 became Chairman of the Palmerston North Hospice Service Trust. He worked tirelessly at both the political and practical level towards this end and in May 1991 the Arohanui Hospice opened debt free with eight of the twelve beds commissioned.

1991

Heather Allan

Mrs Heather Allan received a Civic Honour for Community Service, in particular for her service to the New Zealand Society for the Intellectually Handicapped and various other community based groups.

Mrs Allan was elected to the Manawatū Branch IHC Committee in 1978, became a vice president in 1983 and president in 1986 - she still holds this position. She is a Council member of the New Zealand Society for IHC.

Mrs Allan's other community involvement includes a committee member of Parentline, a member of the Board and vice-president of National Council of Women, a board member of Catholic Social Services and Chairman of ACROSS - a new organisation resulting from the amalgamation of Catholic Social Services and the All Saints Childrens Home Trust.

Mrs Allan was elected to the Manawatū-Whanganui Area Health Board in 1989 and is presently Chairperson of the Community Committee.

Allan Beattie

Mr Allan Beattie received a Civic Award for community service, in particular for his service to the city and region and his outstanding involvement with a number of major city amenities and with the foundation of numerous community groups over several decades.

Mr Beattie was involved for fifty years with Barraud and Abraham moving from office boy in 1929 to Chairman of Directors from 1974 to 1983. It was through Mr Beattie working for Barraud and Abraham that he came into contact with many facets of community life in Palmerston North. He was a foundation Director of the Manawatū Development Company launched in 1965 for the promotion of the city.

He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce for 30 years including being President in 1949-50. Perhaps his greatest personal contribution to civic affairs over that time lay in his involvement with negotiations for and deputations to Ministers of the Crown, Departmental Heads and Local Bodies on such matters as Milson Railway deviation, Cargo Centre, Airport Committee, Palmerston North as a first inland Custom Port of Entry.

Mr Beattie was a member of Rotary for 42 years and was deeply involved in the establishment of the Milverton Free Kindergarten.

Taitoko Fitzgerald

Mr Taitoko Fitzgerald received a civic award for community service, in particular for his outstanding contribution to the Palmerston North City Council by his leadership of the Rangitāne Māori Committee.

Mr Fitzgerald is involved with local, regional and central government as consultant on Māori matters as they apply to this region where Rangitāne are tangata whenua. He consults with kaumatua of neighbouring iwi on matters of mutual concern, particularly when it involves delivering services from Palmerston North to other tribal areas.

The organisations on which Mr Fitzgerald works on behalf of Rangitāne include Palmerston North City Council, Manawatū-Whanganui Regional Council, Department of Social Welfare, Justice Department, Police Department, Manawatū Polytechnic and the Manawatū-Whanganui Area Health Board.

Frank Moult

Senior Constable Frank Moult received a civic award for community service, in particular for his service to the youth of the city, through his supportfor soccer, the Blue Light Disco and social work for the Police Youth Aid Section, well beyond the call of duty.

In May 1985 he commenced duties as full time Youth Aid Officer, a position which he still occupies. Constable Moult was a foundation member of the Blue Light ventures which commenced six years ago.

Palmerston North Blue Light Discos are recognised nationally as one of the most successful. In 1987, 3,000 young people attended the largest-ever disco in Australasia held here in Palmerston North.

Lorna Sexton

Mrs Lorna Sexton received a civic award for community service to a wide range of community organisations, in particular for her service to the city and region through the CAB, YWCA, National Council of Women, the Kindergarten Association, Mobility, Grey Power, Court Aid and Probus.

Mrs Sexton's contribution to this community has been in the extraordinary number and in-depth involvement with so many organisations, in addition to those I have mentioned in which she has served in a senior executive capacity.

Much of the work has been innovative such as the setting up of the Atawhai Pre-school Centre. Her community involvement has largely followed from her early involvement with the Kindergarten movement.

1990

Daphne Hyde

Mrs Daphne Hyde received a Civic Award for her services to the elderly of Palmerston North. As a social worker in All Saints Parish, Daphne Hyde adopted a special caring role for the elderly, which soon extended well beyond the parish and she rapidly became a general community worker.

She used both her nursing skills, when visiting the elderly and her counselling and general helping skills for those in need of spiritual comfort or practical advice. Those who have worked with her describe Daphne Hyde's concern for those in her care and the community at large, often giving extra time and loving care "Beyond the Call of Duty" and often subordinating her own comfort and convenience to the needs of others. An outstanding contribution to community welfare.

Maurice Sexton

Maurice Sexton has been selected for this award for the outstanding service he has given within the community of Palmerston North. Maurice Sexton commenced his community involvement with Jaycees eventually becoming World President of Jaycee International and he still has an active role in International Jaycee counsels.

He served as a City Councillor for nine years, was a member of the A and P Association, the Showgrounds Trust, the Manawatū Rugby Union, the Hotel Association and many other committees within the Palmerston North community. (Kindergarten, primary and secondary schools, aged service council, Manawatū Society on Alcohol and drug use and others.)

Maurice Sexton was actively involved in the promotion work which succeeded in having Brightwater Home established and has been secretary of that Society since its inception. Maurice Sexton has represented the city as a Hospital Board and Area Health Board member for twelve years and was recently elected Chairman of the present Manawatū-Whanganui Area Health Board. Maurice Sexton has made an amazing contribution to community organisations.

Pat Snoxell

Pat Snoxell received the Civic Award for his service to Scouting, Guiding and the Theatre in Palmerston North. Pat Snoxell was the prime mover in establishing gang shows in Manawatū in 1961 and has written many of the items and has directed every gang show since that time.

Pat Snoxell was President of the Appeal Committee which raised funds for building the Globe Theatre and has been a member of the Board of Trustees since its inception. He has directed a series of pantomimes for the Manawatū Theatre Society.

Pat Snoxell has directed many productions for the Palmerston North Operatic Society and has been associated with many other staged productions as artistic director or advisor. While President of the Operatic Society he formed the Abbey Theatre Arts School. An astonishing contribution to Scouting, Guiding and musical theatre in Palmerston North.

1989

John Kamariera

"As we journey through life, we come in contact with people, who, by their example, leave a lasting impression on us. One such person in my life has been John Kamaiera, whom I have known for thirty-eight years.

A man I admire for his strong Christian faith, his strength, his taha Māori blending in with his taha Pakeha. He is a bridge builder of his time, being dedicated to promote goodwill among all people." The words of Hapai Winiata, Assistant Bishop of Wellington. He served overseas with the Māori Battalion during the Second World War and was invalided home in 1943.

He subsequently acquired a farm at Whakarongo, from which he and Eunice raised eight children and participated in many community activities. John Kamariera's interests have been across a wide front, serving on local school and hall committees, Parent-Teacher Associations and on the Boy Scouts Committee for ten years.

In 1968 he was appointed by the Justice Department to be an official Māori interpreter and was later made a Justice of the Peace in recognition of his example and high public image. One of his major projects has been in the assisting of the founding of the Te Reo Māori course at Massey University and for fourteen years was responsible for the tutorial work carried on there.

He is a foundation member of Paneke, an access funded community development and training organisation and still serves on that Board as its highly respected kaumatua. He is a foundation member of St Michael's Church vestry and its senior lay reader. He is Chairman of the Kaumatua Council formed in Palmerston North, as well as being Chairman of the Taitokerau Whanui Iwi, which is based in Palmerston North.

John Kamariera has a wonderful record of public service to this city and his own community, given in his quiet and dignified manner and in a true voluntary spirit. The respect for this man and his efforts for all people is widely shared by both Māori and Pakeha communities who know and work with him. He is a strong supporter of both multiculturalism and Kia Kaha, Kia Kotahira - our strength is in our unity.

Pauline Keyes

Mrs Pauline Keyes has given distinctive service in not one, but in four major areas of the qualifying categories. Under education and youth activities she has spent nineteen years actively promoting the development of the free kindergarten movement in the Manawatū, serving in most executive positions at that level, and also at national level.

Through recreation, she has spent ten years involved with tennis, keep fit and preschool gymnastics at the YMCA. Under community affairs, she has been involved in city promotion, city beautification and, with Mrs Seifert, became a founder member of the Riverside Walkway and Bridle Track Committee.

As our city planner has often stated, she never accepts that something cannot be done and on many occasions she has rearranged Council's own priorities to accommodate her ideas. And although I probably should not tell you this, it is alleged that she commandeered a bulldozer on one occasion to prevent it destroying something that she considered of value. Altogether, an outstanding recital of public work.

John Schwabe

John Schwabe is a player, composer and arranger of orchestral music, producer, musical director, musical school director, music administrator and musician extraordinaire.

A lifetime given to music - a statement often made as some form of a compliment but rarely matched quite as literally as I invite you now to accept. There have been three major submissions supported by nineteen accompanying testimonials that displayed the extraordinary involvement John Schwabe has had in every aspect of music in this community in the last twenty years.

I was relieved to discover that he has other interests outside of the immediate area of teaching, producing, arranging, composing, playing and directing music. He makes and repairs musical instruments. He has even built his own harpsichord for authentic baroque performances.

The musical attributes of the city have been greatly enriched by John Schwabe.

1988

Rita Auta 

Mrs Rita Auta has made a total commitment to Pacific Island people over the last ten years. She was a foundation member of the Palmerston North branch of Pasifika and has worked to provide counselling services and liaison skills with a wide variety of educational, health, welfare, labour, justice and housing agencies.

She is a member of COGS and also a member of the National Selection Committee for the distribution of funds for the Ministry of Women's Affairs. She is also employed as a liaison officer with the Manawatū Polytechnic and is a Minister of the Eucharist. Her untiring and ceaseless work for her people is carried out to achieve better understanding and racial harmony between European, Māori and Pacific people.

Jo Bewley

Mrs Jo Bewley's community life spans a period of twenty years, with service as a part-time lecturer at Massey, Secondary School teacher and various Parent-Teacher Associations. However, her more public activities probably resulted from her membership in Zonta Club, through which she has participated in a number of major projects, the most noticeable being in her involvement with the Ryder-Cheshire Foundation.

From being a foundation member, she became the leading figure in the major fund-raising committee that resulted in the construction of the home. She continued her involvement with the organisation throughout its furnishing and indeed, in its day-to-day administration since then. In between all these activities, she has been actively involved with the Manawatū Art Gallery, the All Saints Church and is a life member of the Manawatū Museum Society.

Fay Burns 

Mrs Fay Burns was introduced to Birthright twenty-eight years ago and has served that organisation for almost all of that time in a variety of very demanding roles - no the least of which being a period on a committee giving one or two mornings a week for at least ten years.

She is currently a Vice-President and long term member of the Palmerston North Horticultural Floral Art Club, from which she successfully supported the Hospice appeal with two major fundraising projects - "Wedding of the Year" and "Spring Time at Ascot".

She is also a valued member, announcer and presenter of the Hospital radio team and has given much time over a long period to the Hospital Library Service, and with some superhuman effort has spent some nine years as the Secretary of the Terrace End Scouts.

Pat Kelliher 

Pat Kelliher needs no introduction to Palmerstonians and has also received a Queen's Honour for his thirty-five years of service to local government.

What is probably less public knowledge was that in 1959 Pat Kelliher became an inaugural member of a consultative committee formed as a result of a discussion document circulated by Internal Affairs and from which the Civil Defence organisation was ultimately formed.

He gave thirty years of service and for many of them chairing the Civil Defence Committee. He also held the position of Controller for ten years. This service is probably without parallel in any other place in New Zealand and represents hundreds of hours of voluntary work.

Andy Ryan

Andy Ryan has been selected for this award principally for his association with Ozanam House. At one time President and currently secretary of the St Vincent de Paul Society, Andy Ryan has been associated with many charitable works of that society, but when the idea of Ozanam House became a reality twenty-one years ago, he became a foundation trustee and more recently its Chairman.

His personal effort to the St Vincent de Paul Society and more particularly, his devotion to the Spirit of Ozanam House has been quite exceptional.

Robyn Vining

Mrs Robyn Vining has been selected for her services to the Order of St John, over a period of twenty-eight years and you would not be wrong in concluding that she must have started at a very young age.

She has excelled in her leadership of young people, with her cadets winning national competition awards on at least six occasions - some small recognition for the hundreds of hours that she has spent teaching and coaching young people.

She has also spent a few years as a coach of the Milson Junior Soccer Team, and also currently serves on the executive of the Crippled Children's Society.

Bob Wallace

Bob Wallace has been a member of the Red Cross Society for over forty years and has served on its executive for thirty years, and more recently as its president.

He has held positions as the vice-president and has been the recipient of the Red Cross Merit for outstanding service. His interest in the community has been outstanding and his knowledge of first aid has been so extensive that he was on the Palmerston North Hospital Ambulance Auxilliary for Volunteers.

His involvement in Red Cross has been wide and extensive and his first aid experience has served a wide range of sporting and cultural events over that incredibly long period.