CNZM
For Dr Mark Thomas in Kings Birthday honours 2025.
To be Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
For services to people living with HIV or AIDS and antibiotic research.
Dr Mark Thomas is an Infectious Diseases Physician, whose research and educational efforts have made him a leading trusted source of information on antibiotic prescribing and as a clinician advocate for people living with HIV or AIDS.
Dr Thomas began supporting people living with HIV or AIDS in the 1980s, advocating for better treatments and reducing stigma. Mark supported many Positive Women Inc. initiatives. He was always open to speak and answer questions at both the HIV Women’s Seminar and Retreat. One year he drove from Auckland to Hamilton to do a Q&A session at the Family Hui. He has been in community initiatives such as Sperm Postive and endorsed our HIV Essentials online course.
He gave numerous educational sessions about HIV and AIDS, including writing the book ‘HIV Explained’ which continues to be used for teaching within hospitals and universities. Over his career, he has made significant contributions to multiple national advisory bodies on infectious diseases including HIV and antibiotic matters and has assisted various community organisations supporting people living with HIV or AIDS.
His leading promotion of the proper use of antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistance has been crucial to preserving the efficacy of vital drugs for current and future use. He has conducted extensive research on antibiotic use, helping to develop programmes to optimise their use. He developed educational resources to limit unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and improve prescribing initiatives. Dr Thomas has been instrumental in writing and development of the New Zealand Antimicrobial Resistance Action plan and other key reports and policy.
On behalf of Positive Women Inc., we congratulate Mark on this very well-deserved recognition.
Arohanui
