Mrs Naomi Baker-Wenley, of Havelock North, QSM for services to opera
Naomi Baker-Wenley founded the Hawke’s Bay Opera in 1986, holding positions of Chairperson and administrator. She played several leading roles, including in ‘La Traviata’. She engaged renowned artists to perform in the operas, receiving praise from media globally. She established the James Baker Scholarship, named after her late husband, which encourages local singers, stage and lighting crew to gain experience and knowledge. She is a life member of Hawke’s Bay Opera and received a Hastings District Civic Honour for voluntary service in arts and culture. Mrs Baker-Wenley founded the Mary Doyle Choir and is currently a soloist.