A half-century involvement with the New Zealand thoroughbred racing industry and a lifetime serving the Hunterville community has earned farmer and businessman Christopher Russell Grace the Queen's Service Medal (QSM).
The Queen's Birthday honours citation, released by the Prime Minister's Office, described Mr Grace as a patron of the Hunterville community and, combined with his 50-year involvement in the racing industry, well worthy of the QSM.
His racing interests include terms as president of the Marton Jockey Club, where he now has life membership.
He represented the Marton Jockey Club on the district committee and was involved in the decision to transfer racing from the Marton racecourse to Awapuni. He is a sponsor of racing in the region.
He was also involved with the Hunterville Water Scheme, which supplies water to the township, and the construction of an all-weather sports field at the local primary school. Mr Grace helped to lead Nga Tawa School for girls into integration and has supported other local organisations such as dog trials, the Rangitira Golf Club, and the local rugby club.