Mr Gary Rooney, of Waimate, MNZM for services to business and philanthropy
Mr Gary Rooney established the Rooney Group, employing more than 300 people across earthmoving, pipe and cable laying, transportation, and farming. He encourages natural fauna regeneration and has pioneered the development of a rock fish screen, designed to prevent salmon smolt from entering irrigation schemes. He has been a driving force behind numerous community projects in the South Canterbury region. He has supported the local foodbank and set up scholarships for young athletes. After the Christchurch earthquakes, he supported the design and build of new facilities at Timaru’s Craighead Diocesan School. Mr Rooney chaired the Central South Island Fish and Game Council.