09/06/2026
We're proud to celebrate the appointment of Stephen Parker as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours, recognising his outstanding service to governance and community.
Some leadership quietly shapes communities for decades. Steve's contribution to Visionwest began in 2004. Across 19 years of voluntary governance, he helped guide the organisation through significant growth, supporting the expansion of housing, healthcare, food support, employment, counselling and community services that now impact thousands of whānau each year.
As Visionwest Chief Executive Lisa Woolley ONZM reflects:
"Steve is exceptionally hard working, passionate, dedicated and community minded. He has added so much to the governance and strategic direction of Visionwest over the last two decades, always keeping our vision and mission at the centre of what we do."
What makes Steve's leadership remarkable is not just his governance expertise, but his commitment to service. He has consistently championed community-led solutions, demonstrated a deep commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and worked to ensure organisations are grounded in equity, partnership and long-term wellbeing for the communities they serve. Whether mentoring leaders, supporting community initiatives, or helping organisations build strong foundations for the future, he has led with humility, integrity and purpose.
His impact extends well beyond Visionwest, through leadership and governance roles across numerous community organisations throughout Aotearoa.
This honour recognises a lifetime of contribution, but also the quiet, consistent way Steve has served others for many years.
Congratulations Steve on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for the leadership, wisdom and heart you have brought to Visionwest and the wider community.
