It will be a proud moment for a Wanganui family when an investiture ceremony takes place in Auckland tomorrow.
Graham Hingangaroa Smith, a prominent Mori educationalist, will be made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit by Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae.
Professor Smith's mother, Paea Smith, who lives in Durie Hill, and his sister Cherryl will travel from Wanganui for the ceremony at Government House.
Professor Smith, chief executive of Te Whare Wnanga O Awanuirangi: indigenous university in Whakatane, only lived briefly in Wanganui but his family roots are here, with his grandparents farming land at Kauangaroa.
He was named in the Queen's birthday honours list and receives his award for services to Maori and to education.
He has been at the forefront of Mori initiatives in the education field, making contributions to the political, social, economic and cultural advancement of Mori communities.
He has also worked with other indigenous peoples across the world.