Newly-minted Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit Keith Trembath credits his persistent honesty and “abundance of common sense” with his success.
The Hikutaia farmer and former politician has spent his life in service to various organisations, including the Waikato Agricultural Industry Training Organisation, Federated Farmers, Waikato East Life Education Trust, the St John Paeroa area committee, and a five-year stint on the Hauraki District Council; and the 2025 New Year’s Honours list saw his public service, agriculture and education efforts nationally recognised.
“I’ve always worked alone, so it was good for my mental health to be out learning from other people,” he said.
His work has not been achieved in a vacuum, however.
Keith says his years-long dedication to the community is also owed in large part to the legacy of his family.
Among his ancestors he counts numerous community leaders, including former Thames Mayor Frances Trembath, various members of county councils, and Keith’s own father George, who contributed to Federated Farmers, Scouts, school committees, and more.
“There’s a long whakapapa of serving. And then my dad was on everything you could be on.”
There are dozens of others who’ve helped and supported him along the way, too – Keith rattles off a list of names including former council colleagues Basil Morrison, Popeye Challis, Bruce Gordon, Sel Baker, and Mike Hayden; Life Education Trust team members Bruce Smith and Frances Nichol; St John volunteer Jackie Thorne; friends Andreas, Ben, Gene and Sam; and of course his wife Judith and three children Kelly-Anne, Jared and Logan.
Keith says he could always see what needed to be done and “just do it” – although he’s quick to admit this attitude often gets him into trouble.
“I wouldn’t use the process if I could get stuff done. And I’d think to somebody, if you’re not going to work with me, don’t block me, because eventually I will run on top of you.
“But some organisations, I scared them terribly that I could just get it done and I’d find a way to do it.”
Although age and health concerns have now slowed him down a little, Keith says he intends to keep serving the community where he can.
“I’ve enjoyed the journey,” Keith said.
“And I want to continue. People say to me, you should retire. You shouldn’t be looking after… 300 different assorted animals.
“But do I go and sit in a retirement home somewhere in a Lazy Boy dribbling in my beer? Um, no.”
Keith hopes to use his new accolade to further benefit the community, saying it will “open doors” for him to keep advocating for causes close to his heart.
Chief among these are furthering women’s education – which he says will benefit the entire economy – supporting and promoting the farming industry, and supporting health and well-being initiatives.
More than anything, Keith says he’s proud to have contributed so much to his community and country.
“I’ve always been proud to be a farmer, helping feed New Zealand and the world. It’s been a privilege to serve my community, and I will continue to do so as long as I am able.”
