Editorial: Chance to laud success

Betty Nelley is a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her work with the Kauri Museum at Matakohe.

Regardless of what you think of the monarchy, the annual Queen's Birthday Honours is an opportunity to celebrate the success of Northlanders.

And it's great this year to see a wide-ranging geographical spread, and strong Maori representation among the five Northlanders who will receive honours.

Nora Rameka, 72, a newly appointed Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, hails from Takou Bay, just south of Matauri Bay.

Her work in Maori housing and education has been recognised. Down the coast, John Bain has strong ties with Oakura.

The founder of Northland's emergency helicopter service up has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

In Whangarei, but with strong links to Kaikohe, Allen Wihongi is a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to Maori, the arts, and education.

Over on the west coast, Betty Nelley is a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her work with the Kauri Museum at Matakohe.

And continuing the tourism theme, down at Wellsford, Linda Clapham is becoming a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the community. Linda was instrumental in the formation of the Te Hana Community Development Trust in 2002, in an effort to revitalise the town.

Congratulations to our five recipients. A community spirit and passion drives these people, and it is a privilege to be able to share and celebrate their success, as Northlanders.