Order of Merit for Hikutaia Farmer

A New Zealand Order of Merit for Hikutaia farmer, Keith Trembath, for his extensive public service which crossed over into agriculture and education.

The 74-year-old spent the day shearing yesterday on the eve of the announcement in this year’s New Year’s Honour’s list.

Keith and his wife Judith have farmed at Turua on the Hauraki Plains before their current farm at Hikutaia, their property being known for the illuminated cross which Keith said is a beacon of reflection for those across the district.

In receiving the honour, Trembath expressed his heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported
him throughout his life, particularly his family and the generations before him who set the standard for service
to the community.

“I would like to thank the individuals who thought I was deserving of this award and for managing the
extensive paperwork involved. I also want to express my deepest appreciation to my wife, Judith, of 52 years,
and our children Kelly-Anne, Jared, and Logan, for their love, support, and encouragement,” said Trembath.

Trembath also acknowledged the legacy of his ancestors and the community leaders who paved the way for his
own service, particularly members of his family, including:
• Francis Trembath – Mayor of Thames
• Frank Court – Wairarapa, South County Council
• Bob Lowry – Ohinemuri County Council
• Percy Sutton – Founder and Director, Te Aroha Thames Valley Dairy Company
• Arthur Sutton – Ohinemuri County Council
• George Trembath – Trembath’s father, who contributed to numerous community organizations,
including Federated Farmers, Scouts, School Committees, and more.

He also paid tribute to colleagues from the Hauraki District Council, including Basil Morrison, Popeye Challis,
Bruce Gordon, Sel Baker, and Mike Hayden, who were instrumental in the development of the Hauraki Rail
Trail.

Throughout his life, Trembath has been a dedicated advocate for the community, particularly in the areas of
health, education, and agriculture. He has consistently championed practical solutions, such as:
• Advocating for the forgiveness of student loans for doctors and nurses as a means to retain and return
medical professionals in New Zealand.
• Proposing Kiwibank as the government’s preferred banking option, to ensure local ownership and
control.
• Supporting water metering initiatives in all local body councils to reduce water wastage and ensure
accountability.

Trembath has also been an active supporter of initiatives promoting health and well-being. He has worked
closely with Life Education Trust, an organization dedicated to educating and empowering young people to
make healthy choices.

Additionally, Keith has long supported the work of St John, especially in the context of local community health
and emergency services. He has worked alongside numerous dedicated St John volunteers and staff,
recognizing their tireless efforts in serving the public.

Trembath has also spoken out on issues related to women’s education, inspired by global examples such as
Bangladesh, where investing in women’s education has proven to uplift an entire economy. His strong belief is
encapsulated by the words of Celia Lashlie: “It is through working with the women that we will change the encapsulated by the words of Celia Lashie: “It is through working with the women that we will change the
destiny of the children.”

As a long-time dairy and sheep farmer, of over 55 years, Keith has been a passionate advocate for New
Zealand’s agricultural industry (Federated Farmers Member Since 1978, reaching to President of
Hauraki/Coromandel. Pre-Fonterra, committee-man of NZ Dairy Group, 15 years. Deputy Chair of Meat and
Wool at Federated Farmers, 6 Years. Founding Director of multiple roles – AG-ITO, known as Primary Industries
ITO).

He expressed his concern over the lack of support for the wool industry and the promotion of synthetic
alternatives, which are harmful to the environment. Trembath also praised Dr. Doug Edmeades (ONZM) for his
dedication to holding the fertilizer industry to high standards of integrity and science. Looking forward, I
believe Peter McBride will take Fonterra to unbelievable heights.

Reflecting on his achievements, Trembath shared his pride in contributing to his community and country,
stating, “I’ve always been proud to be a farmer, helping feed New Zealand and the world. It’s been a privilege
to serve my community, and I will continue to do so as long as I am able.”

Click here for interview.