A New Zealand Samoan being recognised in the New Year's honours says he has enjoyed helping minority groups contribute to society.
Lani Tupu has been awarded the Queen's Service Medal for services to the Pacific community.
Mr Tupu has assisted new immigrants in their efforts to integrate into New Zealand life and has worked in high profile roles within the Methodist Church and government advisory roles throughout the Pacific.
Mr Tupu says in recent years he has been encouraging young people to live a focussed life.
"Really getting into something worthwhile for their future because people like myself and other older people in our generation may not be here around but they are the ones coming up to make a difference to the society. They are the ones that can lead us in the future and I encourage them to walk on that path with pride and joy."
Other Pasifika to be recognised include Hola Taue, who also received a Queens's Service Medal for services to the Pacific community and Emeline Afeaki-Mafile'o who became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the Pacific community.
Outgoing All Blacks Keven Mealamu and Ma'a Nonu also became Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
