Sir Graeme Douglas, of Remuera
Sir Graeme Douglas received the Insignia of a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to philanthropy and athletics. Mr Douglas founded Douglas Pharmaceuticals, one of the fastest-growing pharmaceutical companies in Australasia, in 1967. The company has a strong research and development strategy, and more than 450 employees. The company exports products of its own formulation and manufacture to more than 35 countries. In 1988 he was appointed as a Member of The New Zealand Order of Merit, for his services to the New Zealand pharmaceuticals industry. Since then, Sir Graeme has contributed significantly to the community through his philanthropic endeavours. He has provided funding for a research fellow for the Neurological Foundation and bought lifesaving equipment and an MRI scanner for Starship Hospital. He supports the West Auckland Hospice, Medical Air Abroad, the Heart Foundation, the Liggins Institute and the Oliver Smales Memorial Trust. Sir Graeme was an Auckland representative shot-putter, has remained a keen age group competitor and supports the Waitakere City Athletics Club, in particular its coaching programmes for young athletes.