Mr Patrick O'Rourke, of Napier, KSM for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community
Mr Patrick O'Rourke is Controller of the Rissington Rural Volunteer Fire Force. Following Cyclone Gabrielle, he established a temporary hub to connect residents with support services during a three-week isolation from Napier and Hastings. His leadership contributed to an additional permanent Community Hub building constructed next to the fire station to enhance community resilience. He is a Trustee of the Tumanako Charitable Trust, established to financially support cyclone recovery efforts for families. As Chairperson of Rissington Community Group, he has overseen scholarships, reunions and community events. Mr O’Rourke was Chairperson of the Rissington School Board of Trustees.