Sir Ashley Bloomfield was among the eleven recipients receiving their honours this morning at Government House. Sir Ashley was recognised for his role in leading the health sector’s response and management of the COVID-19 pandemic. He became a familiar face to New Zealanders, fronting daily reports. He led the Ministry of Health’s management of the pandemic by establishing national contact-tracing, managed isolation, and undertaking a vaccination programme which saw over 90% of the eligible population fully vaccinated.
Dr Kath Walker received an ONZM for services to wildlife conservation. Dr Walker helped establish bird sanctuaries on Motuara and Chetwode Islands, and discovered the Mount Augustus snail (Powelliphanta augusta). She has worked with DOC to keep this critically endangered species alive in captivity while its natural habitats are restored. Congratulations to all this morning’s recipients.
