Mr Chris Grinter, of Rotorua, MNZM, for services to education and Māori
Chris Grinter has been Principal of Rotorua Boys’ High School since 1991. He implemented a Treaty of Waitangi principles-based approach and, in partnership with Ngāti Whakaue, created a bi-lingual teaching programme. With the support of Ngāti Whakaue, a Māori education whare-complex was opened. He opened the Tai Mitchell boarding hostel, providing homes for those with challenging backgrounds, with teachers providing mentoring and leadership. The school was equipped with a health and wellness support centre to ensure the basic needs of students were met onsite. As a result, academic achievement rates for students have improved. Mr Grinter was coach for the New Zealand Secondary Schools rugby team.