Catherine Heather Ayrton (née Donaldson; 1934–2024) was a New Zealand coroner, journalist, and community heritage and conservation advocate. After becoming a Justice of the Peace in 1975 she was appointed coroner for the Bay of Islands, the second woman to hold the position. She was a journalist for the New Zealand Herald for 35 years.[1]

Heather Ayrton
Born
Catherine Heather Donaldson

1934
Died24 May 2024 (aged 89-90)
Occupation(s)journalist, justice of the peace, coroner
Known forQueen's Service Medal recipient

Ayrton joined the committee of the Northland branch of the New Zealand Historic Places Trust in 1984, and then Heritage Northland in 2015.[2] She supported many other community groups, acting as patron for Hokianga Historical Society[3] and Chair of the Northland Conservation Board among other roles.[4]

In 1998 she was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for her community activities.[5]

References

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  1. ^ "Heather Ayrton JP calls it a day". Northland Age. 26 February 2015. Archived from the original on 21 August 2024. Retrieved 16 October 2024.
  2. ^ O'Hare, John. "Farewell Heather". Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. Retrieved 16 October 2024.
  3. ^ Whaley, Alexa. "Hokianga Historical Society Newsletter September 2016" (PDF). Hokianga Historical Society. Archived from the original (PDF) on 8 June 2024. Retrieved 16 October 2024.
  4. ^ "Minister announces new Northland lottery appointments". Beehive.govt.nz. New Zealand Government. 14 January 2010. Archived from the original on 19 February 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2024.
  5. ^ "OBITUARY: Heather Ayrton, Northland identity and fierce supporter of the country's heritage". Northern Advocate. 31 May 2024. Archived from the original on 2 September 2024. Retrieved 16 October 2024.