Mr John Hart, of Auckland, CNZM for services to sports governance
John Hart has been instrumental in the growth of the New Zealand Golf Open Tournament from a foundation to now a high-profile international event. He chairs the New Zealand Golf Open Organizing Committee. He chaired the New Zealand 2011 Group which oversaw the management of New Zealand hosting the 2011 Rugby World Cup Tournament. He used his network across business and sport to create engagement and interest in the tournament. He was the Executive Director of the New Zealand Warriors, undertaking an extensive transformation which culminated in the Warriors reaching the grand final in 2011. As Director of the Blues Rugby Club Board, Mr Hart has mentored players and coaches and founded the Blues Family Foundation, which raises funds to continue development of rugby around the region.