Rural people have been recognised in the Queen's Birthday honours list announced on Monday.
Greg Gent, Ron Gibson, Brian Hight and Clive Paton have been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Mr Gent was honoured for his services to the dairy industry and corporate governance. He was involved with Fonterra co-operative's creation 11 years ago and was on the board as a farmer representative until last year.
A prominent figure in the rural veterinary scene, Dr Gibson has had a 44-year career working in the greater Waikato region and is credited with providing rural clinical experience for veterinary students.
Mr Paton was honoured for services to viticulture and the environment. He is in the process of transforming his Ata Rangi vineyard in Martinborough to full organic status.
Mr Hight was honoured for services to agricultural publishing.
Lindsay Galloway has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Chatham Islands agriculture.
Through his position at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (now the Ministry for Primary Industries), Mr Galloway helped farmers to increase production and improve sheep and cattle breeds, as well as strengthen trading ties with Canterbury.
Also made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit are: rural health advocate Muriel Jensen for services to the community; James Millton for services to the wine industry; and Ross Corrigan for services to farming and the community.
