Auckland Leader Narendra Bhana Awarded King’s Service Medal

Narendra Bhana, a prominent community leader in Auckland, has been awarded the King’s Service Medal (KSM) for his extensive contributions to the Indian community in New Zealand. The medal was presented to Bhana by Dame Cindy Kiro, the Governor-General of New Zealand, during an investiture ceremony at Government House in Auckland.

Bhana expressed his gratitude for the honour, stating, “Receiving the King’s Service Medal is an honour beyond words. Standing at Government House in Auckland surrounded by so many New Zealanders who give their time and talent for the good of others reminded me that service is not about recognition, it’s about responsibility,” in an interview with The Indian Weekender.

Bhana has dedicated over 15 years to uniting and serving Indian communities across New Zealand. He held the position of President of the Auckland Indian Association from 2018 to 2022 and played a key role in establishing the Diaspora Group alongside the Indian High Commission. This initiative has significantly enhanced the collective celebration of Indian Independence Day, moving beyond individual regional events.

Advocacy and Community Engagement

Bhana’s commitment extends to addressing critical issues affecting the Indian community, including immigration, justice, education, and healthcare. Recently, he took proactive steps to address a surge in retail crime impacting his community by initiating discussions with the justice sector to advocate for more stringent laws.

He is recognized for his strong advocacy for unity, mutual understanding, and inclusivity, often collaborating with interfaith and multicultural groups. Bhana remarked, “This award is a tribute to every volunteer, mentor, and community leader who continues to build bridges of understanding and unity across Aotearoa. I accept it with gratitude on behalf of all who serve quietly but make an extraordinary difference every day.”

In addition to his advocacy efforts, Bhana is devoted to promoting Indian languages and culture, ensuring that younger generations remain connected to their heritage. His involvement in the NZICA Youth Conference in 2023 exemplified this commitment, where he supported discussions on well-being, careers, finances, and culture while actively engaging youth in planning and executing the event.

The King’s Service Medal is awarded by the New Zealand government to recognize and reward outstanding volunteer service to the community, as well as public service in elected or appointed positions. This honour reflects Bhana’s unwavering dedication and the significant impact he has made within his community, showcasing the importance of civic engagement and leadership.