Over the years Kathleen Patricia Fletcher has encouraged many people to have a go at learning, singing and painting just as she herself has done.
The Waipukurau woman was given a Queen's Service Medal for her services to music, science education and the community in the 2018 New Year Honours list.
She wears many hats, not limited to organist, choir director, gallery secretary, science fellow and lifesaving advocate, and said she was humbled to receive a QSM.
"You don't do things to get honours but when you do you're very humbled."
A science teacher her entire life, Mrs Fletcher had significantly contributed to education through assessment development and training for NZQA and the Ministry of Education and roles with Massey University College of Education.