For more than 20 years it has been said that “Auntie” Norma Ordish deserves a medal for her work at New Plymouth Prison and in the local community.
This year it’s happening - the 81-yearold kuia’s work is being recognised with the award of a Queen’s Service Medal (QSM).
Norma (Ngati Ruanui) is at the forefront of cultural activities and support services at the Prison and the QSM awards are made ‘for valuable voluntary service to the community or meritorious and faithful services to the Crown or similar services within the public sector, whether in elected or appointed office.’
Regional Adviser Maori Service Development Te Waihanea Hakaraia prepared Norma’s nomination.
“The extent of her work at the prison has been hard to believe.
“Prisoners and staff alike get her counsel and advice, particularly on matters relating to whanau, hapu and whakapapa and there is very little that will stop Norma from getting in to help,” says Te Waihanea.
“At one stage her car was in for repairs and because she did not want to bother anyone she would walk all the way to the prison, to make sure she would see ‘the boys’ at least once a week.”
Norma lives in Fitzroy, a 5km walk from New Plymouth Prison.
“Between it all, I understand she still has time to enjoy a relaxing game of golf,” says Te Waihanea.
Prison Manager Peter Madsen says Norma was a member of the group of iwi that advised management when the Prison’s Cultural Development Group was first mooted.
“She has been here right from the start and has always been around to provide support - be it for a death in the family, somebody gaining a promotion, or any other reason.”
Norma will be accompanied by four members of her whanau when she receives her QSM from the Governor-General on March 23.
A powhiri and hui will be held on March 30 to celebrate Norma’s achievements.
Got a story for Corrections News or want to request the print edition?
Email commdesk@corrections.govt.nz or phone (04) 460 3365.
ISSN 1178-8453