Mr John Tait, of Christchurch, MNZM for services to education and Māori
John Tait taught Social Science and Māori throughout schools in New Zealand. As Principal of Motueka High School, he introduced initiatives which resulted in greater educational success for Māori students. As Principal of Kaikōura High School, he rebuilt ties between students, staff and management after years of struggles. Following the Kaikōura earthquake, he brought in a guidance counsellor, school nurse, and community social worker. He was Regional Manager for the Ministry of Education. He served as Chief Executive of Te Tapuae o Rehua, aiming to improve retention of Māori students in tertiary learning. Mr Tait was a facilitator for He Kākano, an evidence-based, cultural-responsiveness change programme for schools.