History

The Order of New Zealand is the highest honour in New Zealand. The Order was established by Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of New Zealand, by Royal Warrant on February 6, 1987 (Waitangi day) to honour the anniversary of the Queen’s accession to the crown. It was created to recognise outstanding civil and military service to the Crown and state and is awarded in the name of the Queen of New Zealand.

The Order is composed of the Sovereign, Ordinary Members, Additional Members, and Honorary Members. Ordinary membership is conferred upon New Zealand or Commonwealth citizens, while Honorary membership is conferred upon foreigners. Additional members may be appointed to the Order on special occasions.

Ordinary membership is limited to 20 living members. Members are entitled to use the post-nominal letters ONZ.

The Member depicts the shield of New Zealand surrounded by a traditional Maori Kowhaiwhai rafter pattern. It is worn by men on a neck ribbon and by women on a bow and must be returned upon the death of a member.

There are two additional versions of the Member. The Member worn by the Sovereign is surmounted by a royal crown, and the Member worn by the Secretary and the Registrar is surmounted by crossed quills. There may be additional versions of the Member that differ by manufacturer.