Miss Valerie Lissette, KSM, of Hamilton, for services to dance
Valerie Lissette established the Valerie Lissette School of Dance in Hamilton and has taught dance for 47 years. She expanded the studio from teaching ballet to include jazz, tap, contemporary, and musical theatre for all ages. She has prepared thousands of dancers for Royal Academy of Dance ballet examinations and has mentored many who have gone on to successful dance careers. She directed and produced annual theatrical productions, providing a platform for every student to perform. Miss Lissette has offered dance classes in several Waikato towns and has performed with the Hamilton Operatic Society for many years.