Sir Patrick Higgins, Palmerston North, KNZM
For services to philanthropy and the community. Sir Patrick is the Chairman and co-owner of the Higgins Group construction company. The Higgins Group which employs more than 1,200 people, is a major sponsor of the Manawatu Rugby Academy based at Massey University, and the Manawatu Turbos Rugby team, as well as other sports in the Manawatu. Mr Higgins was named the 2007 Manawatu Sports Personality of the Year. He generously supports the Arohanui Hospice Trust, the Manawatu Cancer Society, and the Louise Perkins Foundation. He has also supported the Manawatu Historic Places Trust in the preservation of the historic 1901 Hoffman Kiln, one of only two such kilns remaining in New Zealand. Sir Patrick was integral in the construction and management of Manfeild Park, the international motor racing circuit and equestrian course, and sat on its board for six years. He was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2005.