DES RATIMA

Des was known as the 'Mayor of Whakatu' as he had lived there for many years but Des was an effective advocate for many in the community during his life.

After his long career in the army, he continued to be actively involved in a wide range of kaupapa including kohanga reo, hauora, the Māori Wardens movement and marae.

He was named as Hawke's Bay Business Leader of the Year in 2018 and in that same year received the ONZM for services for Māori.