Mrs Dawn McMillan, of Thames, MNZM for services to children's literature
Mrs Dawn McMillan has authored more than 40 picture books for children and more than 200 educational reading books and texts, with many translated into te reo Māori. Her books have had success across the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom and Canada. She has mentored up-and-coming writers and illustrators, made frequent appearances in schools and children’s bookshops, and corresponded with readers around the world. She has written stories highlighting social issues, such as the adoption of children from the United Kingdom by New Zealand families after World War Two. Mrs McMillan has volunteered at the Thames St John’s Opportunity Shop and been a Waiomu Domain Committee member and President.