Mr Alex Nathan, ONZM, of Whangarei, for services to Māori and art
Alex Nathan was heavily involved in the researching and presenting of Treaty of Waitangi claims lodged by Te Iwi o Te Roroa.
He was one of the lead negotiators and chaired Te Roroa in the post-settlement phase.
He helped establish Matatina Marae in Waipoua Forest and represented his Iwi over the protection of the forest and Kai Iwi Lakes in negotiations with councils and government agencies.
He co-founded and was Honorary Chair of the Waipoua Forest Trust, a conservation partnership giving Māori joint governance in the Trust’s property management.
He is a renowned artist known for his use of silver in indigenous art form. He has hosted many art, Māori culture, natural history and conservation programmes at Matatina Marae.
Mr Nathan has collaborated with indigenous artists globally.