Levin’s John Kenneth Peters has been recognised in the New Year Honours for his contributions to governance and palliative care, following a career spanning health leadership roles and public service.
Mr Peters has been Chairperson of the Nelson Tasman Region Hospice Trusts since 2013. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of the Nelson Tasman Hospice, ensuring the project was completed with no residual debt and with reserves remaining. He was Deputy Chair of Hospice New Zealand from 2014 to 2019 and chaired the International Forum on Palliative Care in 2015 and 2016.
Mr Peters previously served as CEO of the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board from 2004 to 2012. Under his leadership, the DHB achieved five consecutive years of surplus after a period of deficits and saw the establishment of key infrastructure, including the Nelson Hospital Cardiology Unit and an Integrated Health Facility in Golden Bay.
Beyond the health sector, he has held governance roles in local government and the private sector. He chaired the Nelson City Council’s Audit Risk and Finance Committee and Strategic Development Committee from 2014 to 2022 and was the Global Director of Information for the New Zealand Dairy Board from 1998 to 2001.
Mr Peters continues to contribute to governance initiatives in Horowhenua and has been recognised for his long-standing commitment to public service.