Mr Samuel Whitelock, ONZM, of Napier, for services to rugby and the community
Samuel Whitelock is the highest capped All Blacks player, achieving 153 appearances at the conclusion of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, captaining the All Blacks on 18 instances. He has been a key member for 13 years, playing in the winning All Blacks teams for the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cup. He captained the Crusaders, contributing to the team’s seven consecutive Super Rugby titles. He has been an Ambassador for Farmstrong, a nationwide wellbeing programme for the rural community to help farm better. He has supported schools and youth communities across New Zealand with his story, motivating them to continue supporting their communities. He has contributed philanthropically to Feilding High School’s basketball department and has donated items for auctioning. Mr Whitelock retired from rugby in 2023.