Newspaper Article 2015 – Philanthropist recognised for community work

Philanthropist recognised for community work

NEVILLE SMITH – MNZM

By Roger Moroney

When the annual Tremains Art Deco Weekend rolls around Neville Smith, MNZM, is never far from the fun and stylish action – dressed either in his fine Deco suits or his naval uniform.

His devoted links to both Art Deco and the navy are both part of the greater mix which led to Mr Smith being honoured with a New Zealand Order of Merit for services to philanthropy and the community.

He has also been an integral part of education and cadet services and has assisted a string of organisations and individuals.

In the wake of the devastating Christchurch earthquake the retired Napier businessman sparked into action by organising sponsorship and charitable events to raise funds for the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

Like anything he stepped forward to assist throughout the years, there was never any hesitation.

“We had to do something,” was his simple summation.

The fundraising dinner and auction he put together in 2011, and which was attended by then Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker, raised more than $100,000.

For the past seven years, working in with the Royal New Zealand Navy in his role as Hawke’s Bay naval liaison officer, shipboard Art Deco Weekend cocktail evenings he organised have raised more than $40,000 to help students with grants at four Hawke’s Bay high schools.

“It is a real surprise to receive an award for doing events that I enjoy,” he said.

Mr Smith has been associated with the Art Deco weekends for more than 20 years and was made an Honorary Life Member of the Art Deco Trust in 2003.

It began when he was a director with Brebner Print which took on the initial naming rights in 1998.

After assuming the role of Lieutenant Commander (honorary) with the navy, he worked to bring a greater naval presence to the Bay for the event.

He has also devoted his time and efforts to Vision Impaired Children of Hawke’s Bay, Iona College and Lindisfarne College.

He established the Services Charitable Trust and has supported the Napier Army Cadet Unit and the Air Training Corps 13 Squadron.

He also put in five years as a director of Destination Napier.

Mr Smith said while it was an honour to be recognised for putting something back into the community, it was something he simply did because he enjoyed it – working with people and making a difference.