Mr Ian Gardiner, of Christchurch, ONZM for services to the communications industry and mountain safety
Mr Ian Gardiner has been a cornerstone of Tait Communications since joining the company in 1966. His contributions span engineering innovation, commercial leadership and cultural stewardship. He has played a pivotal role in designing key products, including Tait’s first Ultra High Frequency (UHF) base station. In retirement, he continues to serve as the company’s curator and historian, leading guided tours at the Tait Museum. He co-founded the Canterbury Mountain Radio Service in 1967, holding various roles until winding up the service in 2023. He was President of Canterbury Mountaineering Club and served on technical advisory bodies for Mountain Safety, Federated Mountain Clubs, Search and Rescue and conservation boards. Mr Gardiner was a member of the Arthur’s Pass National Park Board and North Canterbury Parks and Reserves Board.