Disability Issues Minister Nicky Wagner congratulates those who have been recognised in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours for their contribution to the disabled community.

'This year's recipients have been recognised across a wide range of areas including Paralympic sport, foster care, special education and support services for disabled people,” Ms Wagner says.

'I congratulate all the recipients on their outstanding contribution to the disability sector.

'These professionals, through their advocacy and advisory work at the community, regional and national levels in New Zealand, work to ensure that the needs of disabled people are met and their rights respected. They make a positive difference in the everyday lives of many disabled people.”

The recipients are:

MNZM

• Mr Ken Sowden - For services to Paralympic sport
• Mrs Amalia Tuffield - For services to special education
• Ms Shelley Campbell - For services to health and people with disabilities
• Ms Genevieve McLachlan - For services to people with disabilities

QSM

• Mrs Andrea Hawkless - For services to people with severe epilepsy
• Mr Lance Girling-Butcher - For services to the blind and seniors

QSO

• Mrs Lynda Mooij - For services to foster care

Honorary QSO

• Mr Johannes Mooij For services to foster care

SOURCE: Office of Nicky Wagner