Kamo woman Joan Howse never thought her countless hours of volunteering would ever culminate in a Queen's Service Medal.
Howse was presented with her medal by Whangarei mayor Sheryl Mai for services to women and the community in an investiture ceremony in the Whangarei council chambers yesterday .
"I didn't think years ago it would end up like this. It's been a wonderful day."
Around 30 people, including family members and representatives from the various organisations Howse has been involved with were on hand to witness the special ceremony.
Four other Northlanders received their honours in Auckland last week.