Primary sector

John Luxton

Former National Cabinet minister John Luxton has been made a Companion of the Order of New Zealand (CNZM) for his services to the dairy industry.

‘‘This award is a recognition of the importance of the dairy industry, which is very innovative and responsible for earning nearly half New Zealand’s primary sector exports,’’ he said.

A National MP from 1987 to 2002, Luxton held numerous Cabinet portfolios, including agriculture, housing and commerce.

He oversaw the development of industry-good body Dairynz, stepping down as chairman of the board last year, having held the position since 2008.

He played a key role in a number of significant policy and legislative changes in New Zealand, including the foundation policy work that led to the formation of Fonterra and the deregulation of producer boards.

Luxton is a former chairman of the Tatua Co-op and a founder of Open Country Dairies and Kaimai Cheese companies. He is co-chairman of the Waikato River Authority, chairman of the Asia New Zealand Foundation and Hauraki Iwi-owned Pouarua Farm Partnership.

‘‘I bought my first dairy farm in the Waikato and I still go up there from Wellington about once a week. My son now farms it,’’ Luxton, 70, said.

Justine Kidd

Takapau-based Justine Kidd was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for her work in both the dairy industry and equestrian sports.

A successful entrepreneur, farmer,