Five East Auckland Residents Honoured for Outstanding Service

Five residents from East Auckland have received prestigious recognition in the 2026 New Year Honours List for their exceptional contributions across various fields. Among the honorees, Lyn Lloyd stands out for her pioneering work in renal dietetics, while Gary Whittle is celebrated for his long-standing dedication to rugby league.

Lyn Lloyd: A Leader in Renal Nutrition

Lyn Lloyd of Somerville has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for her extensive services to renal nutrition. With over 40 years of experience, Lloyd has significantly influenced renal dietetics in both New Zealand and Australia. The honours citation highlights her role in clinical care, education, advocacy, and policy development.

Lloyd began her career as a renal dietitian at Auckland Hospital in 1982. Under her guidance, the nutrition care for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at the hospital has become a national standard. She is particularly noted for her expertise in managing kidney stones and for initiating the first long overnight hemodiafiltration program in the country.

Throughout her career, Lloyd has contributed to the Australia and New Zealand Society of Nephrology (ANZSN) as an associate member and has mentored many dietitians. She played a vital role in developing the Renal Nutrition Program, which offers post-graduate education for dietitians in nephrology, dialysis, and transplantation. Her collaboration with various international groups has also resulted in significant advancements in nutrition guidelines.

Gary Whittle: A Rugby League Fixture

Gary Whittle, a resident of Burswood, has been appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in recognition of his service to rugby league, spanning over 65 years. His involvement includes roles such as referee, touch judge, ground announcer, and administrator across Auckland, Waikato, and Northland.

Since 1995, Whittle has served as the timekeeper for the Warriors, participating in over 500 games. His commitment to maintaining high standards in rugby league has been evident through his volunteer work across numerous roles. He has been a member of the Auckland Rugby League Judicial Committee since 1981 and currently chairs this vital body.

Whittle has also contributed significantly to the Auckland Rugby League Referees Association and was the ground announcer at Carlaw Park for 15 years. In addition, he has served as a director of the Rugby League Museum Society since 2009.

Community Heritage and Theatre Contributions

Marin Burgess, a resident of Farm Cove, has been awarded The King’s Service Medal (KSM) for her extensive work in heritage preservation and education. Since 1980, she has volunteered at the Howick Historical Village, New Zealand’s largest living history museum. Burgess has held various roles, including committee member and heritage advisor, and has been instrumental in developing educational programs for children.

Laurie Mills, also recognized with The King’s Service Medal, has dedicated almost 50 years to community theatre in East Auckland. His roles at Howick Little Theatre include mentor, director, and president. Mills has directed numerous productions and has played a crucial role in fundraising efforts for the theatre’s operations.

Lastly, Gordon Myer of Golflands has received The King’s Service Medal for his commitment to community service. His extensive volunteer work includes roles with the Red Cross, Citizens Advice Bureau, and Howick Lions Club. Myer has significantly contributed to youth projects and humanitarian efforts, earning recognition for his leadership in establishing local community initiatives.

These recognitions highlight the invaluable contributions of these individuals to their respective fields and the wider community in East Auckland. Detailed stories on each honoree will be featured in upcoming editions of local publications.