Dame Cindy and Dr Gordon Nicholson, of Auckland, ONZM for services to health and the community
Dr Gordon Nicholson is a Gastroenterologist Specialist with Auckland Hospital since 1965. He helped establish the first alcohol and drug ward in Auckland Hospital. He has mentored and taught students and junior doctors. He initiated and was a founding member of ‘Medical Aid Abroad’, which sends medication, equipment and aid to nations in need. He was Regional Coordinator of Doctors Health Advisory Service and established the mental health programme ‘Doctors for Doctors’. He volunteers with Bridgebuilders Trust, which supports refugees in association with Mangere Refugee Centre in Auckland. He works with New Settlers Family and Community Trust, supplying information, food, household goods, driving lessons and other services. He has been involved in environmental organisations and community gardens. Dr Nicholson contributed to the Opoutere Ratepayers and Residents Association for many years.