King’s Birthday Honours 2026: Six New Knights and Dames Among 178 Kiwis Recognised

Prime Minister Luxon said the recipients represent the very best of New Zealand’s values, demonstrating excellence, leadership, and a commitment to serving others.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has paid tribute to the remarkable New Zealanders recognised in the King's Birthday Honours 2026, celebrating their dedication, leadership, and service that have helped shape a stronger nation.

A total of 178 individuals have been honoured this year for their contributions across a wide range of fields, including healthcare, education, law, community service, philanthropy, sport, research, and public administration. The honours acknowledge decades of commitment by individuals whose work has left a lasting impact on communities throughout New Zealand and beyond.

Among the recipients, six distinguished New Zealanders have received one of the nation's highest honours, being appointed as Knights and Dames Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Prime Minister Praises Outstanding Service

Prime Minister Luxon said the recipients represent the very best of New Zealand's values, demonstrating excellence, leadership, and a commitment to serving others.

He noted that the contributions made by those recognised have strengthened communities, improved public services, advanced research and education, and enhanced New Zealand's reputation internationally.

The honours list reflects the diverse ways New Zealanders contribute to society, from improving healthcare outcomes and shaping educational policy to supporting charitable causes and promoting transparency in government.

Sir Paul Baker Recognised for Transforming Paediatric Healthcare

Dr Paul Baker has been knighted for his extraordinary contribution to medicine and healthcare, particularly in the field of paediatric anaesthesia and airway management.

A foundation consultant anaesthetist at Starship Children's Hospital, Sir Paul has spent more than four decades improving patient care and advancing clinical practice. Widely regarded as New Zealand's foremost authority on airway management, he has played a pivotal role in training medical professionals both nationally and internationally.

His AirwaySkills programme has become one of the country's most respected medical training initiatives, equipping thousands of anaesthetists, emergency medicine specialists, and intensive care practitioners with critical life-saving skills.

Sir Paul's influence extends well beyond clinical practice, helping to establish higher standards of patient safety and professional education throughout the healthcare sector.

Sir Peter Boshier Honoured for Service to Justice and Public Accountability

Former Principal Family Court Judge and Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier has been appointed a Knight Companion in recognition of his significant contribution to New Zealand's legal system and public service.

Throughout a distinguished career spanning several decades, Sir Peter has worked to strengthen public trust in democratic institutions and uphold the principles of justice, accountability, and transparency.

As Chief Ombudsman, he played a key role in ensuring government agencies remained accountable to the public, promoting access to information and encouraging improvements in public-sector decision-making.

His work has helped reinforce confidence in New Zealand's legal and governance systems while advancing the rights of citizens to access government information.

Sir James Chapman's Research Shapes Literacy Education

Professor Emeritus James Chapman has been recognised for his influential contribution to education and literacy research.

For more than forty years, Sir James has been at the forefront of efforts to improve literacy outcomes for children, particularly those experiencing learning difficulties and dyslexia.

His research has significantly influenced how reading is taught in New Zealand schools and has informed educational policies both domestically and internationally. His work has contributed to the development and adoption of structured literacy approaches, helping educators better support students with diverse learning needs.

The recognition reflects the profound impact his scholarship has had on generations of learners, teachers, and educational institutions.

Sir David Ellis Honoured for Racing Industry Leadership and Philanthropy

Business leader and thoroughbred racing figure David Ellis has been knighted for his contributions to New Zealand's racing industry and extensive charitable work.

Over many years, Sir David has helped develop New Zealand's thoroughbred sector into a globally respected industry, mentoring trainers, jockeys, and racing professionals while supporting the development of future talent.

Beyond racing, he has become widely known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting a broad range of organisations focused on health, education, community welfare, animal protection, and disaster relief.

His commitment to giving back has benefited numerous charities and community initiatives across the country.

Dame Susan Hassall Recognised for Education and Community Leadership

Susan Hassall has been appointed a Dame Companion for her significant contributions to education and community development.

Through her leadership roles at Hamilton Boys' High School and the University of Waikato, Dame Susan has helped foster academic excellence while supporting the development of sporting and leadership opportunities for young New Zealanders.

Her influence extends into the community sector through her involvement with organisations including Momentum Waikato, Hospice Waikato Trust, and the Association of Boys' Schools of New Zealand.

These efforts have helped strengthen educational outcomes and support charitable initiatives that benefit communities throughout the Waikato region and beyond.

Dame Elizabeth Rata Honoured for Lifelong Contribution to Education Research

Professor Elizabeth Rata has been made a Dame Companion in recognition of her distinguished career as a sociologist of education and internationally respected academic.

For more than five decades, Dame Elizabeth has contributed to important debates surrounding curriculum design, educational knowledge, and ethnic politics in New Zealand.

She was among the foundation members involved in the establishment of Kura Kaupapa Māori during the 1980s and has gained international recognition for her work in bilingual and immersion education.

Her research has shaped educational thinking both in New Zealand and overseas, influencing discussions about curriculum development, teaching practices, and educational policy.

Celebrating Excellence Across New Zealand

While the appointments of six new Knights and Dames have attracted national attention, the King's Birthday Honours 2026 recognise a much broader group of individuals whose dedication has enriched New Zealand society.

The honours acknowledge people from diverse backgrounds who have excelled in public service, healthcare, education, business, science, sport, the arts, and community leadership.

Their achievements demonstrate the important role individuals can play in strengthening communities, inspiring future generations, and contributing to national progress.

As New Zealand celebrates the accomplishments of this year's recipients, the honours serve as a reminder that dedication, innovation, and service remain at the heart of the country's success story.

The King's Birthday Honours 2026 recognise not only extraordinary achievement but also the enduring spirit of service that continues to shape New Zealand's future.