Queen's Service Medal
A Flaxmere man who has worked hard for his community and written many letters of support to nominate others for national honours, was this year himself named in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.
Hastings district councillor Henare O'Keefe was recognised for services to Maori and the community. He has
dedicated his life to helping others, particularly young people and families, whether they live next door to his home in Flaxmere or around the world.
"I was surprised and very humbled, and wondering who nominated me. Like you say, I have suggested other people in the past [for honours]. It never dawns on you that it could come back to bite you on the bum, so to speak.
"Being named, well I immediately think of my friends, my family and Flaxmere. Flaxmere has given me this honour, so I really cherish that."
Mr O'Keefe has been a Duffy Books in Homes ambassador, set up the U-Turn Trust Academy and the U-Turn Trust, a successful intensive course aimed at putting young people back on track.
He works with the New Zealand Police Youth Education Service to help parents keep their children safe and is a sought after speaker internationally.
He was also instrumental in setting up a community barbecue called Tunutunu, which he takes on tour around communities, encouraging people to come out of their home so neighbours can get to know each other.
Earlier this year Tunutunu worked its way around Christchurch streets providing relief after the earthquake disaster.
"Tunutunu gives me a lot of pleasure, it really gets me into the heart of our streets right where the rubber meets the road.
"I am proud of my work with Books in Homes, promoting the power of the written word, I'm proud of my work with the New Zealand Police, and more importantly I am proud of the fact we go out of our way to make others' life more bearable.
"I always said Pam [his wife] and I were put on this earth to serve without expectations and we've stayed true to that.
"If the opportunity is there to do good, you just get on and do it."
