Rare King’s Service Medal Presentation Held in Manawatū District

The King’s Service Medal recognises outstanding voluntary service to New Zealand and its communities. While investitures are typically held at Government House, Mayor Ford was granted the authority and privilege, on behalf of His Majesty The King, to conduct the ceremony locally.

“The Honours system is one of the ways our country pauses to say ‘thank you’ to those who give more than is expected,” Mayor Ford said. “It recognises service, dedication and quiet commitment, and reminds us that the strength of our communities lies in those who step forward for others.”

Mr Wheeler’s contribution to Rongotea spans more than 50 years, including 55 years with the Rongotea Fire Brigade. He served as Deputy Chief from 1980 to 1990 and Chief Fire Officer from 1991 until 2015, while also leading the Tangimoana Brigade.

In addition to operational leadership, he acted as Welfare Officer, supporting firefighters after traumatic callouts and assisting families affected by fires.

His service extends well beyond the brigade. Mr Wheeler has been a member of the Rongotea Community Committee since its inception, helped plant 1,500 cherry trees as part of the Keep Rongotea Beautiful Campaign, patrolled with Neighbourhood Watch, chaired the Rongotea Pool Swimming Committee for ten years, and fundraised annually to keep the community pool open. He was also a leader in the Every Boys Rally between 1960 and 1980.

Mr Wheeler received the United Nations Year of the Volunteer Medal in 2001 and a Manawatū District Council Community Award in 2023.

“Many people contribute to a community, very few shape it over decades,” Mayor Ford said. “It is entirely fitting that Henry’s service is now recognised at a national level.”

The ceremony was attended by family, friends, colleagues, and members of the community who gathered to celebrate a lifetime of service that has strengthened Rongotea for generations.