One hundred and ninety six New Zealanders were congratulated today by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern for their contributions to New Zealand and our communities.

The list is gender balanced again this year.

“It is a privilege to be able to acknowledge these exceptional New Zealanders today,” Jacinda Ardern said.

“In a year when we have passed our first legislation on reducing child poverty, it is especially heartening to be able to recognise the services of Dr Ian Hassall, our first Commissioner for Children and paediatrician, who will receive a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Dr Hassall has championed the rights of children most of his career, has contributed to reducing cot death and child drowning, and established the Child Abuse Prevention Society.

“Also becoming a Knight Companion is our longest serving Mayor, Tim Shadbolt, who has supported communities to grow at both ends of the country through his work in local government, in particular as Mayor of Invercargill and previously Waitemata. In Invercargill his Zero Fees scheme has encouraged so many young people to study in Southland they have increased the local population.

“Passionate advocate for women scientists, and a celebrated scientist herself, distinguished Professor Margaret Brimble will become Dame Margaret Brimble. She is recognised for her work in medicinal chemistry and driving the creation of a nascent drug discovery and development industry. As New Zealand’s first woman to be elected to the Royal Society of London she is a world leader and I’m pleased to congratulate her today.

Margaret is joined by Dames Diana Crossan, Kerry Prendergast and Gaylene Preston.

“Another passionate advocate, a pioneer of restorative justice, and expert in criminal justice Kim Workman is being recognised as a Knight Campanion today.

“It’s a special day for every one of these 196 people receiving honours, I congratulate them all and offer my sincere thanks for their contribution,” Jacinda Ardern said.

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