A tireless advocate for helping new migrants integrate into New Zealand has been posthumously awarded a New Year honour.
Hai Tong Too received his QSM for services to the Chinese Community. It was approved by the Queen before his death this year. He was a leader for minority groups in Hawke's Bay for close to 40 years, helping new migrants become part of their local societies by showcasing their cultures in the community.
Mr Too taught martial arts and self defence to all age groups from 1975, without profit. He was a Lion dance instructor, drummer and guitarist and also taught his skills as a hobby orchardist and market gardener.
The much loved Napier man was the founding member of Ethnic Association Hawke's Bay and the immediate past president of Multicultural Association Hawke's Bay. He was also closely involved in the organisation of Hawke's Bay Diwali Festival, Asian in the Bays Awards and International Cultures Day in Hastings since inception.
As the past president for 12 years of Hawke's Bay Chinese Association, he assisted long existing and new immigrant Chinese, arranged community events and helped to host visiting Chinese delegations.
