Dave Cull’s widow took a framed photo of him with her, as she accepted an honour on his behalf.
Joan Wilson placed the picture of Mr Cull, dressed in his Dunedin mayoral robes, on a table at Government House in Wellington, and accepted the award from new Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro yesterday.
His citation noted the Queen’s approval of the award took effect on April 26, which was the day before Mr Cull died, aged 71.
Ms Wilson said yesterday’s Queen’s Birthday honours investiture was a moving occasion.
She was made to feel very welcome, she said. Family was with her, including two grandchildren.
Mr Cull served three terms as mayor, until 2019.
His citation described him as a mayor who implemented a plan for restructuring council-controlled organisations, improved the financial state of the city and placed openness and transparency at the forefront of the democratic process.
He also served as president of Local Government New Zealand for three years and had a brief stint as Southern District Health Board chairman.
Three other southerners were recognised at yesterday’s ceremony.
Long-serving netball umpire and administrator Colleen Lyons, of Dunedin, became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to sport and education.
Margaret Hopkins moved to Stewart Island almost 50 years ago and she had become a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to conservation and the community for her contribution since.
Athletics stalwart Paul Tyson, of Dunedin, received a Queen’s Service Medal for services to sport and the community.
