Award Recognition Follows A Lifetime of Service

The long list of achievements amassed over more than 60 years of living in Whangamata signals the testament to Ralph Pitcher, today being named in the Kings Honours list. Ralph is now the holder of a Kings Service Medal.

With his wife Doreen, the couple are highly regarded across the town for a lifetime of community services. A family electrical business was the base for assisting with local organisations.

Having been a volunteer firefighter since 1965, Ralph had already been recognised by Fire and Emergency New Zealand for achieving 60 years of service.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand Board Chair, Rebecca Keoghan, described Ralph as a worthy recipients having provided years of contribution to help his community become stronger, safer and more resilient. During his time with the brigade Ralph has assisted with major equipment and building changes while mentoring generations of firefighters.

He is founding member, President, and committee member of the Moana House retirement home, where he was integral to the completion of the Wilson Wing Hospital, and five low-cost housing cottages for pensioners.

He has served for more than 48 years with the Whangamatā Lions Club, including 15 years as President. He served on several committees and managed the Charitable Trust responsible for dispersing funds to community organisations.

Ralph was President and was founding member of the Whangamatā Sports Centre and Squash Club, contributing significantly towards the club’s redevelopment. Golf saw Ralph as a committee member of the Whangamata Golf Club while he was involved in the establishment of 18-hole Titoki course.

He was a volunteer ambulance officer and later became Chair of St John’s Whangamatā Ambulance Service. He was a committee member of the Whangamatā Club for 15 years, and he volunteers as a Meals on Wheels driver.