Mr Douglas Avery, MNZM of Seddon, for services to agriculture and mental health
Mr Avery is a farmer in the Awatere region. He has adopted land-use techniques to drought-proof his farm, and has spoken to audiences around New Zealand, Australia and Argentina about his new farming systems, which have provided a basis for sustainable environmental and financial growth. He has served as Chairman of the Starborough/Flaxbourne Soil Conservation Group. He is an advocate for rural mental health and frequently shares his personal experiences with audiences around New Zealand. He has been a member of the Seddon School Board of Trustees and has been involved in the Flaxbourne Young Farmers Club to shares his experiences with the future generation of farmers.