Kiwibank Local Heroes Medal Recipients for

Marlborough

 

Dr Bob Blake of Marlborough

Dr Bob Blake and his wife voluntarily run a not-for-profit mental health care centre called Horizon and an animal conservation park called Harambe Park. These two organisations have been made available to the youth of Marlborough to give something back. Both of the organisations run a 24/7 programme that provides work opportunities along with counselling for alcohol and drug addiction. Bob has given countless hours to these organisations and the young people of not only the Marlborough region but all across New Zealand. Bobs dedication to youth has spanned over 40 years and Bob is yet to look like slowing down.

Jen Hair of Blenheim

Jen’s house is affectionately known as a ‘madhouse’, with a visitor’s book that says it all – numerous people have joined the family from all over New Zealand and the world. For 20 years, Jen has voluntarily co-ordinated the Blenheim chapter of American Field Scholars, providing host families for international students. More often than not she takes them in herself and provides them with a ‘Kiwi mum’ and a slice of Kiwi culture. Jen has also been the face of Marlborough hockey and has been previously recognised for this on the New Zealand honours list, for her services to the sport of Hockey.

Mark Ivamy of Picton

Mark Ivamy had been a part of the Picton Volunteer Fire Brigade for 29 years and has only recently decided to move on. Mark chose this path to follow in the footsteps of his father. His contribution to the Fire Service in Picton has been invaluable.

Raynor Henson of Picton

Picton senior fire fighter Raynor Henson has served the Picton Volunteer Fire Brigade for over 50 years. Raynor joined the brigade in 1955 and is still operationally active at the age of 73 and regularly is called upon to fight fires. Raynor has also been awarded a Queens Service Medal for his long service and

Wally Stone of Kaikoura

From helping a small township flourish, to providing strategic direction for the nation’s tourism, Wally Stone is one of New Zealand’s foremost tourism and marketing experts. Wally has been appointed a Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Management and as an Office of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Wally also holds numerous positions as a trustee, board member and chairman. Some of these organisations are and have previously been, Asia:NZ Foundation, Te Hapu O Ngati Wheke, Kaikoura Investment Trust and New Zealand Tourism Strategy Working Group.

Jennie Crum of Marlborough

Jennie is a founding member of the Marlborough Farmers Market and Farmers Markets New Zealand. The proliferation of farmers markets throughout New Zealand can in many ways be attributed to Jennies tireless efforts to bring benefits to both farmers and consumers. She has held many positions in the two organizations previously mentioned.