Longtime Abbeyfielder Peter Smale has been honoured for his services to seniors, the community and horticulture by being appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Peter was involved in the establishment of 10 Abbeyfield houses, is a former chairman of the Abbeyfield NZ board and also served internationally as a member of the Abbeyfield Society Board. He received the Royal Patron’s Award for his services to Abbeyfield in 2018.

The Queen’s Birthday honour also recognises his involvement with the Motueka Short-term Accommodation Charitable Trust, Rotary and other community organisations. Stuff published an article about the honour and an interview with Peter.