Seven Pacific Islanders in New Zealand have been recognised in the 2015 Queen's Birthday Honours.
The list of recipients' released today, honours members for long standing and significant service to the community.
Tagaloatele Professor Margaret Ellen Fairbairn-Dunlop from Auckland University of Technology was appointed Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, or ONZM, for services to education and the Pacific community.
Cook Islander Dr George Ngaei was also named an ONZM for services to health and the Pacific community.
Tuiataga Fa'afua Leavasa-Tautolo, co-director of Teuila Consultancy, was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for services to education, arts and the Pacific community.
Also among the recipients was Anita Finnigan, the founder of BEST Pacific Institute of Education, for services to education and the Pacific community.
Niuean Latoatama Halatau was recognised for services to the blind and the Pacific community.
Samoan-Fijian couple Maretta and Pulotu Solomon, who co-founded the Pacific Peoples Learning Institute Martin Hautus, also became Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Seven Pacific Islanders in New Zealand have been recognised in the 2015 Queens Birthday Honours. Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson
