At least a dozen tāngata whenua will be recognised as part of the investitures at Government House in Wellington this week.
Listen to some of the recipients speak about the events to Te Manu Kōrihi
Kataraina O'Brien, of Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Pikiao and Ngāti Maniapoto, was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Photo: SUPPLIED
Governor General Sir Jerry Matepārae is hosting the four days of events, which started on Tuesday.
On Tuesday, Kataraina O'Brien, of Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Pikiao and Ngāti Maniapoto, was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her work with the Māori Women's Welfare League.
She was also recognised for her work with Te Tuinga Whānau, which offers free social work, advocacy and support services.
Ngāi Takoto descendant Rangitāne Marsden was also made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
The chief negotiator for the tribe's treaty settlement has led it through two decades of Waitangi Tribunal hearings and negotiations with the Crown and has been a driving force in the establishment of Te Hiku governance entities.
Mr Marsden has also participated in local government reform and developed partnerships with central government.
Alistair Boyce, of Ngāti Kahungunu, was awarded the Queen's Service Medal. Photo: SUPPLIED
Alistair Boyce, of Ngāti Kahungunu, was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for his work as the deputy-head of Queen Charlotte College, where he helped inspire young Māori to succeed.
Mr Boyce worked there for 39 years and said that for many years the kura had the highest proportion of young Māori in the South Island.
He said it was important to him and the school that Māori were given an environment that was culturally supportive to achieve their maximum potential.