Donald Bennett
Donald Bennett, of Rotorua, received the Insignia of a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and the community. Mr Bennett has been involved in the Rotorua community for more than 15 years. He was a key member of the Te Kotahitanga o Te Arawa Waka Fisheries Trust Board and during his time with the board, he was involved in increasing the fishery’s assets and in the negotiation of fisheries settlements. He was involved in a number of land trusts, including the Tumunui Land Trust and the Lake Okataina Scenic Reserve Board. He was a representative for his hapu on the Te Arawa Māori Trust Board for many years. He is an active member of St Faith’s Anglican Church in Ohinemutu the Te Manawhakahaere Education Committee. Mr Bennett is Chairperson of Mana Social Services and Te Reo Irirangi radio.