Dedicated volunteer recognised

More than three decades of tireless service to young people and community sport in Northland have earned Maungaturoto resident Robyn Bruce one of the country’s highest civic honours.

Robyn was awarded a King’s Service Medal (KSM) in the 2026 New Year Honours, recognising her lifelong commitment to youth development, volunteering and sport across the region. It is the latest in a line of national acknowledgements, following her 2023 Exceptional Service Award presented by Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, at Government House in Wellington.

Humbled by the recognition, Robyn was quick to share the credit.

“Teamwork has been part of everything I’ve done,” she said. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a lot of people – it’s never been just me.”

Robyn’s journey in sport began in 1981 when she started coaching hockey at Orewa School. Over 28 years involved in the game, she helped nurture countless young players, many of whom went on to represent North Shore and Northland. Her leadership extended beyond the field through her service on the Northland Hockey Association’s Junior and Collegiate Committees from 1995 to 2017.

For more than 20 years, Robyn has also been a driving force behind the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award at Otamatea High School, inspiring hundreds of teenagers to challenge themselves, learn new skills and give back to their communities. Her dedication to the programme earned her a long service award.

“I love working with young people – it keeps me young,” she said. “I love seeing them develop their sporting skills and introducing them to new parts of New Zealand when we take trips away.”

Her contribution spans multiple sports, including athletics and swimming. Robyn has held roles as president, secretary and club captain of the Kaiwaka Athletic Club, coached athletes to compete at the North Island and New Zealand Colgate Games, and supported Otamatea High School teams at regional and national competitions. She has also coached swimmers to represent Northland at national level.

Beyond coaching and administration, the KSM citation notes her ongoing commitment to fundraising for students, often giving her own time to ensure young people can participate and succeed.

Robyn says volunteering has always been a joy.

“Whether it was for Plunket or in sport, I’ve always found volunteering very enjoyable,” she said. “After the award was announced, I got a lot of calls from young people I’ve worked with over the years, which was just lovely.”