First Time Investiture on Christchurch Marae
More than 250 guests will gather at Rehua Marae in Christchurch on Sunday 14th December to support the Investiture of
Reverend Maurice Manawaroa Gray with the Royal Honour of MNZM (Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit) by Her
Excellency the Governor General, Dame Silvia Cartwright.
This occasion at Rehua Marae is being held in response to the request of Kaumatua and community leaders who supported
Reverend Gray’s nomination, and they are pleased that the Governor General recognised the appropriateness of conferring
this prestigious Royal Honour upon Reverend Gray in the presence of his Kaumatua and the communities that he serves.
The Honour acknowledges the qualities and attributes of leadership that Reverend Gray possesses, and the substantial
contributions he makes to communities at local, regional, national and international levels. Reverend Gray agreed to the
Investiture taking place on the Marae because "this honour is not only mine; it belongs to all those who have been my
mentors and teachers, and to the communities I have served over a long period of time".
Reverend Gray is involved in the development of Maori people, and has special talents in bringing people from all
cultures together. He works diligently for a vision of an inclusive society which recognises the identity, dignity and
prestige of all peoples. Reverend Gray continues to build on the foundations that his predecessors began, bringing this
vision to the people of Christchurch City, and beyond.
Theo Bunker
Kaiwhakahaere
Te Runaka ki Otautahi o Kai Tahu