Hemi Hema
Hemi Hema, of Hamilton, received the Queen's Service Medal, for services to the deaf. Mr Hema has worked with Maori deaf and their families, and has helped and inspired many to live productive and fulfilling lives. He was the regional Maori Liaison Officer for the Deaf Association based in Christchurch until 2009, when he moved to Hamilton to be closer to his iwi and to take up the role as President of Deaf Aotearoa. In this role, he is dedicated to driving change in New Zealand to improve outcomes for Maori deaf people. He has contributed to the publication of a DVD of the New Zealand National Anthem for use in schools and major events throughout the world where New Zealanders can express themselves in New Zealand Sign Language.