Mabel Wharekawa-Burt
Mabel Wharekawa-Burt, of Katikati, received the Insignia of a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit at an investiture ceremony on 31 March 2009 for services to the performing arts and the community. has acted in a number of features films, including Whale Rider and Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence. She has also played roles in television programmes, including Shortland Street and Mataku. She has produced and presented television and radio programmes and was the founder of the Cook Island International and Pacific Song and Dance Quests. Ms Wharekawa-Burt is involved with a number of community organisations in the Bay of Plenty, including Te Rereatukahi Marae.