Mrs Makareta Desai, MNZM, of Coromandel, for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community
Makareta Desai initiated the establishment of the Manaia fire force and first response unit.
She fundraised to build the Manaia Fire Station and oversaw a smoke alarm installation campaign.
She was active with St John Coromandel. She initiated establishment of Manaia River and Landcare to provide ongoing slip prevention and biodiversity restoration to the river, and continues to be involved with working bees.
She supported a partnership leading to creation of the Manaia River Restoration project, with funding from Waikato Regional Council.
She was Trustee and Secretary of Wiremu Tekou Trust. Mrs Desai has been involved with the Helensville Māori Wardens, the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and Manaia School.