Mr Parker stood down from his position as president because of family and work reasons.

"The Soldiers Club has made some fantastic changes and is booming right now which serves our members well," he said.

"It's been an honour to serve them and work with the board to make this a very successful club which contributes so much back to the community, and really at times is the heartbeat of our community."

Wellington Soldiers Club secretary manager David French thanked Mr Parker for his leadership and friendship at a dinner held in his honour with the board of directors.

"You have led this club wonderfully and it's been an honour to work with you," he said.

Soldiers Club vice-president Shirley Drysdale said Mr Parker had been a truly brilliant president and he would be missed.

A new president will be installed at a meeting of directors next week Mr French said.