Mr Michael Barnett, CNZM, of Papakura, for services to business
Michael Barnett is Chief Executive of the Auckland Business Chamber and Director of the 30 New Zealand Chambers of Commerce networks. Through the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, he has supported people new to New Zealand to settle and gain meaningful employment. He works with employers to ensure bias is overcome through the recruitment process. He partnered with the Ministry of Social Development to launch CadetMax, helping disadvantaged youth gain employment. He established a programme in South Auckland to help students gain their driver’s licence. He has represented New Zealand and the Asia Pacific Region on the World Council of the International Chambers of Commerce. Mr Barnett chaired the Equal Employment Opportunities Trust and, during the COVID-19 pandemic, established a mental health support programme that helped struggling small businesses.