Rotorua's Kingi Biddle is known internationally for his oratory skills, so when he says he is "speechless" when describing his Queen's Service Medal honour - it's a big deal.
Mr Biddle has been given the QSM in the New Year Honours list for his services to Maori and mental health.
The Ngati Whakaue descendant has led the development of the Ngati Whakaue Te Reo revitalisation programme since 2010 and has helped more than 100 whanau improve their use of the language in the home.
He is a board member of Te Arawa Lakes Trust, Te Arawa Standing Committee, Te Papa Takaro o Te Arawa and Te Komiti Nui o Ngati Whakaue. Mr Biddle has been involved with Te Papa Takaro o Te Arawa in a voluntary capacity for six years and has acted as MC for the annual Te Arawa Awards during this time.
"It's a really huge surprise to be recognised because it's always been a dream to be listed in the New Year or Queen's Birthday Honours, so for it to become real - I can't even find the words, it's awesome," he said.
