Ms Michèle A’Court, ONZM, of Auckland, for services to the entertainment and comedy industries
Michèle A’Court is a multi-award-winning New Zealand comedian. She established the New Zealand Comedy Guild, still the only industry body globally solely representing comedians. As its inaugural Chair, she oversaw the setting of professional rates for New Zealand comedians and the establishment of the New Zealand Comedy Guild Awards. She has been a trailblazer for women in television, print media and the live stage. She has advocated for access and safety within the comedy community. She has provided practical assistance to many New Zealand comedians. She has a range of television credits and has authored two bestselling books. Ms A’Court is a Patron of The Aunties, Ambassador for Breast Cancer Cure, and Patron of the Moving and Handling Association of New Zealand, which supports carers in the health sector.