Paul Patel
Paul Patel, of Palmerston North, received the Queen's Service Medal for services to the Indian community. Mr Patel has served the Indian community in Palmerston North for more than 25 years. He is a self-employed Architectural Designer working on schools and other Ministry of Education facilities in the Manawatu, Horowhenua and Tararua regions. He has been President of the Central Districts Indian Association since 1981, and was instrumental in establishing the Central Districts Indian Sports Club. He has been an executive member of the New Zealand Indian Sports Association for more than 15 years. Mr Patel helps to organise numerous events in the Manawatu including Diwali, the Indian Youth Group and the Festival of Cultures.