Heritage Advocate Marin Burgess Honoured with King’s Service Medal

Marin Burgess, a prominent figure in heritage preservation, has been awarded the King’s Service Medal (KSM) for her dedicated contributions to the Howick Historical Society. The accolade, announced at the start of 2026, has left Burgess astounded, as she initially thought the notification email was a spam message.

Burgess, a resident of Farm Cove, has been an integral part of the Howick Historical Village since 1980. Her involvement has spanned various roles, including serving as a committee member, guide, and coordinator. Recognized for her long-standing commitment to heritage education, she described the honour as “amazing” and expressed her gratitude to those who nominated her.

Contributions to Heritage and Education

The Howick Historical Village, located in Lloyd Elsmore Park, serves as a living history museum that aims to educate and engage visitors about the region’s past. Burgess played a foundational role in its education programme, which provides hands-on learning opportunities for schoolchildren. Her efforts in visitor guiding and setting up heritage exhibitions have significantly contributed to the museum’s reputation.

In her own words, Burgess stated, “The Howick Historical Village tells so many stories about people and how they adapted. It teaches, educates and entertains at every level.” Although she remains uncertain about who nominated her for the KSM, she is eager to justify this recognition through her ongoing work.

Burgess has also held the presidency of the Howick and Districts Historical Society on two occasions. During her leadership, she successfully navigated the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and oversaw the transfer of ownership of notable buildings such as Bell House and the Puhi Nui Homestead within the village.

A Legacy of Community Engagement

Beyond her role at the museum, Burgess has been actively involved in various community initiatives. She contributed to the development of the Auckland Volunteer Centre and the Coordinators of Volunteers Auckland (COVAK). Her volunteer work extended to the Red Cross, providing support to refugees, and she has received the Founders Day Award from Zonta of East Auckland for her service to the community.

The citation for her national honour highlights Burgess’s significant impact on heritage preservation and education, noting her vital role in events commemorating the 150th and 175th anniversaries of Howick. She was instrumental in the planning and execution of a district-wide event in 2022 that featured multiple live activities, displays, and competitions.

As she reflects on her achievements, Burgess remains committed to her work at the Howick Historical Society. “I now have to justify this amazing honour! And it will be a pleasure,” she remarked. Her passion for heritage preservation continues to inspire those around her, ensuring that the stories of the past are not forgotten.