Laurence (Laurie) Byers, QSM, Kaikohe
For services to local body affairs and the community. Mr Laurie Byers was a Far North District Councillor for 18 years, also serving a term as Deputy Mayor. He chaired various committees, including the Hearings Committee. He is known for his ability to motivate people into giving the best team effort possible, and for his commitment to the Northland area. He was a founding member of the Northpoint Trust, which provides housing and living support to people suffering mental illness. A Commonwealth Games bronze-medal winning cyclist, he has worked to support and encourage youth involvement in sport through his membership of Sport Northland Trust. He was the driving force behind achieving an astro turf hockey facility in the Far North. He is a long-serving member of Northland Lions and has been involved in numerous projects with this organisation. Mr Byers is a Justice of the Peace.