Surrounded by their families and friends, the recipients were formally recognised for their outstanding contributions to their communities and fields of service.

The occasion was especially significant as Mayor Gordon had the privilege of representing His Majesty King Charles III in presenting the insignia of a King’s Service Medal to Rangiora’s Audrey Mattinson, acknowledging her decades of dedication to Scottish Country Dancing and her tireless voluntary service.

In the strictly prescribed proceedings Mayor Gordon stated the following before presenting Audrey Mattinson with her insignia.

“As Mayor of Waimakariri District Council, I have the authority and privilege on behalf of His Majesty The King to hold this ceremony and present the insignia of a King’s Service Medal to Audrey Mattinson of Rangiora,”

Mayor Gordon acknowledged it was a proud moment for him.

“It was an enormous honour to represent the King on this occasion, and to recognise the extraordinary service Audrey has given to our community.”

Ms Mattinson has been a leader in Scottish Country Dancing across Canterbury for more than 30 years, tutoring at clubs in Rangiora, Burnside, and Oxford, while also fundraising for charities such as Riding for the Disabled, St John, and Oxford Land Search and Rescue. Alongside this, she volunteered for decades with Red Cross Meals on Wheels and the Rangiora Library.

Mayor Gordon praised her dedication, adding: “Audrey’s warmth, generosity, and tireless contribution are an inspiration to us all. It was a true privilege to present her medal in front of her family and friends.”

The morning tea also celebrated five other Waimakariri residents recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours:

• Mr Ron Ealam, honoured for services to Search and Rescue, has dedicated more than 50 years to Land Search and Rescue, including 25 years training and assessing search dogs. His work during the Canterbury earthquakes and his leadership in Oxford Land Search and Rescue exemplify his commitment.
• Mr Graham Brown, recognised for services to the venison industry, has spent more than 40 years promoting New Zealand-farmed venison internationally. As a chef, educator, and Cervena ambassador, he has helped elevate New Zealand’s food reputation on the world stage.
• Mr Norm Williamson, for services to agriculture, was a pioneer of dairying in North Canterbury’s Amuri Basin and a long-serving Chair of the Amuri Irrigation Company. His leadership in irrigation and environmental planning has left a lasting impact on farming across New Zealand.
• Mr Kaiaho Kereama (Butch) Green, for services to music, has been an influential musician and band leader in Christchurch for more than 30 years. Through his swing band Sideline Swing, he has nurtured generations of musicians and made a lasting contribution to the city’s cultural life.
• Mrs Jackie Watson, for services to the community and the arts, has played a central role in Kaiapoi’s recovery following the earthquakes, while also championing arts initiatives including the Kaiapoi Art Expo and the establishment of Art on the Quay.

Mayor Gordon concluded the ceremony by acknowledging all the recipients. “We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you. Your dedication, passion, and selflessness have enriched not only your industries but also the lives of countless people in our district and beyond. On behalf of the Council and our whole community, I thank you and congratulate you on this well-deserved recognition.”