Community Champion Gordon Myer Awarded King’s Service Medal

Gordon Myer, a dedicated community volunteer from Golflands, East Auckland, has been awarded the prestigious King’s Service Medal (KSM) in the 2026 New Year Honours List. This recognition comes as a result of his extensive contributions to various community organizations and charitable initiatives over several decades.

The Honours citation highlights Myer’s remarkable commitment, noting his volunteer work with the Red Cross, Citizens Advice Bureau, and the Howick Lions Club. His efforts have had a profound impact on the local community, particularly through initiatives aimed at supporting youth and providing humanitarian assistance.

Decades of Community Service

Myer’s community involvement spans back to the 1980s when he was instrumental in establishing Clive Scouts in Hawke’s Bay, serving as the group’s leader. His leadership garnered him a Chief Scouts Commendation, reflecting his ability to inspire and engage young people. Since 2010, he has actively contributed to the Manurewa Citizens Advice Bureau as a board member and chairperson, where he played a pivotal role in creating training workshops that connect community services with government sectors.

In recognition of his dedication, Myer received a life membership from the CAB in 2021. He has also completed three terms as president of the Howick Lions Club, where he has championed projects such as Youth Riding for the Disabled and sponsorships for students attending the Sir Edmund Hillary Outdoors Education Trust. Under his leadership, the Lions Club has made significant contributions to the New Zealand Cancer Foundation, Women’s Refuge, and various humanitarian efforts through the Lions Club International’s ‘SightFirst’ projects.

Myer has volunteered with the Red Cross for ten years, delivering meals through the Meals on Wheels program in Manurewa, and has served as a Justice of the Peace since 2017.

A Humble Reaction to Recognition

Upon receiving the news of his award, Myer expressed surprise and humility. He shared that he and his wife, Denise Myer, were both “shocked” to learn of the honour. “Both Denise and I cried. It was Bradley, my oldest son, who did the work unbeknownst to us. He beavered away and got all these recommendations from various people,” Myer explained.

He emphasized that while he has dedicated much time to community service, he has always found joy in his commitments. “I wouldn’t change anything. I’m humbled. The family is very proud. But me, I’m just plain old Gordon, doing my thing, because I enjoy doing it.”

Myer’s involvement with the Scouts began as a way to support his children. “Denise was a Brownie leader and I was an Akela, the leader of the Cubs. We had about 30-odd kids put their hands up wanting to come, so it was quite a big group,” he recalled. His leadership eventually led to the Scouts developing from the Cubs, where he became a group leader.

Beyond his official roles, Myer’s contributions to the community are numerous. He played a key role in establishing a tennis club in Clive, advocating for community sports facilities in an area with a population of just 1,500. “We didn’t have a tennis court, but we were keen on tennis. With the help of a local councillor, we managed to get funding and build a three-court facility,” he said.

After relocating to Auckland, Myer and his wife operated the Howick Motor Lodge for twelve years, which was the only motel in the area at the time. It was through this business that he was invited to join the Lions Club, marking the beginning of a long and impactful involvement that has lasted over three decades.

Myer’s contributions to the Lions Club have included organizing significant events, such as the annual charitable fireworks display at Howick College, which has become a popular community tradition. He maintains relationships with long-standing members, stating, “The old-timers, we still meet once a month and have a coffee. There’s about a dozen of us still around.”

Reflecting on his time with the Citizens Advice Bureau, Myer noted the rewarding experiences it has brought him. “It was great sitting down with people and talking through their various problems, like marital disputes, housing and insurance issues,” he said.

Myer’s life of service exemplifies the spirit of community engagement. His recognition through the King’s Service Medal is not only a testament to his efforts but also an inspiration for others to contribute positively to their communities.