CAMA celebrates Morrin Rout and Anne McCracken honoured in King’s Birthday List

The Community Access Media Alliance (CAMA) proudly congratulates two outstanding community broadcasters who have been recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for their extraordinary service to the arts, literature, and local communities.

Morrin Rout, co-host of Bookenz on Plains Media, has been appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for her services to the arts, particularly literature. For more than 30 years, Morrin has championed Aotearoa authors and their books through hundreds of interviews and tireless support of events and festivals. Her deep love for storytelling, warmth, and humour has made Bookenz a literary institution, airing every Tuesday and Saturday at noon on Plains Media, via 96.9 FM in Canterbury. Book lovers can access previous shows from plains.org.nz as well as the livestream.

CAMA also warmly acknowledges Anne McCracken, host of Women’s World on Radio Southland, who has been awarded the King’s Service Medal (KSM) for her contributions to community organisations, outdoor recreation, and local government in Southland.

A long-time advocate for rural communities, Anne has supported projects such as the Southern Scenic Route, the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track, the Waiau Health Trust, and the Southland Locator Beacon Trust. Her 30+ years of service to organisations like the Borland Lodge Adventure and Education Trust and the Southland Women’s Club reflect her deep commitment to civic life.

She also volunteers with the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, is a member of the National Council of Women (Southland branch), and is the longest-serving member of Radio Southland’s governing trust board.

Anne’s show, Women’s World, features news, views, and interviews celebrating local women and community voices, broadcast every Wednesday at 9:15 am on Radio Southland.