The New Zealand Royal Honours & Investiture ceremonies took place at Government House in Auckland on 2nd October 2024, where nine individuals were honoured for their outstanding contributions to New Zealand. Among them was Venerable Abbess Manshin of Fo Guang Shan New Zealand, who was awarded the Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM). The award was presented by Governor-General NZ Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III. Distinguished attendees included Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Hon Andrew Bayly, Kaumātua Joe Harawira, as well as, Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Venerable Rulian, President Yulin KU of BLIA North Island, Advisor Sally Wong and accompanies of the recipients.
In her address, Dame Cindy Kiro highly praised the contributions made by the awardees to New Zealand, acknowledging their use of talent and ability to enhance the lives of others, bringing pride and well-being to the country. She described the New Zealand honours system as the highest public affirmation of outstanding individual achievement, embodying the spirit of service, care and the pursuit of excellence for society. On behalf of King Charles III and the people of New Zealand, she extended heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to the recipients, encouraging them to continue leading by example and inspiring others to contribute to society.
During the ceremony, Abbess Manshin’s long-standing dedication to community welfare in New Zealand was recognised. Under her leadership, Fo Guang Shan established Temples in both Auckland and Christchurch in New Zealand, initiated the free education programme The 3G4G of Festival Cultural Sharing and served as the Curator of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery NZ, where she organised various artistic and social education events. Furthermore, Abbess Manshin led the team collaboration with the Red Cross in providing home meal delivery services and opened the Temple as a shelter providing food and accommodation to those affected by the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she coordinated the distribution of 15,000 rapid test kits to 97 schools within four days.
Abbess Manshin expressed that the award is a recognition of the Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s lifelong advocacy for world peace and interdependence. Abbess affirmed that the honour belongs to the entire team and that they will continue striving to provide quality service to the community, sharing kindness values in New Zealand.
Among the nine honourees were Dame Theresa Gattung, former CEO of a publicly listed New Zealand company, recognised for her contributions to women’s leadership and philanthropy and Temepara Bailey, a Silver Ferns legend, celebrated for her achievements, including a World Cup championship and two Commonwealth Games gold medals.
Following the ceremony, Dame Cindy Kiro and other distinguished guests congratulated Abbess Manshin and the Fo Guang Shan team. In return, Abbess presented the 2024 BLIA Activities Report and the FGS NZ calendar as tokens of appreciation. Abbess also extended an invitation to the Governor-General and guests to visit the Temple.