The legacy of Hamilton man, Murray Powell, was acknowledged at the ceremony of his Queen’s Birthday honour.
The 89 year old was made an Office of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contribution to wildlife conservation and the deer industry at a special service, held at the Hamilton City Council on Friday afternoon.
Powell and his late wife, Gloria, are founders of the Hamilton Zoo, having started it back in 1966 when it was originally called the Hildale Game Park.
Powell has been involved with many projects over the years, including the deer farm industry and what is now known as the Fish and Game.
He accepted the honour from Hamilton Mayor, Paula Southgate, on behalf of all the people who have helped him over the years.
The Hamilton Zoo now welcomes 100,000 visitors a year with over 600 native and exotic animals roaming the park.
