A life full of community spirit

ROYAL HONOUR: Queen's Service Medal winner John Harman of Eketahuna

"Giving is always better than receiving."

It is this simple philosophy that has kept Eketahuna resident John Harman both grounded and involved with his community, not to mention earning him the Queen's Service Medal.

Mr Harman bought his first dairy farm in Eketahuna as a young man in 1965. He has been there with wife, Anne, since, and along with raising five children, has been actively involved in the community.

Mr Harman was chairman of the Parent Teacher Association at Eketahuna School, he is involved with the Catholic Church in Eketahuna, he was responsible for projects in Eketahuna such as the playground and the giant kiwi statue.

But what Mr Harman likes doing most is making a practical and measurable difference for people in Eketahuna.

He is chairman of the Eketahuna Charitable Trust which formed in 1988.

At that time there was a need for a grocery store in the town so the trust bought a farm supply building and leased it at a "very reasonable" rate to be used as a grocery store. The deal is still standing today.

The trust did the same for the local petrol station after Eketahuna residents had no petrol for 12 months in 2000.

"The town has incredible spirit, a can-do attitude and a willingness to get things done. It is very gratifying to be part of that system."

On the Queen's Service Medal, Harman said, "it is a huge honour to be recognised", but he said many people in Eketahuna were also worthy.

"There is a humility there, too. All the people involved with me have dedicated their time and are equally worthy. It is an honour as much really for the spirit of the town. I certainly don't do it [community work] for recognition."

Mr Harman said his wife Anne has had a huge influence on his community involvement.

"Anne has been a great strength and has supported me right throughout my community involvement."

Mrs Harman said her husband had a manner which people can relate to.

"He calms it down when things go wrong and makes people see a better way of doing things," she said.