Editorial: It's nice to be affirmed

In 1984, I was about to sit School C, David Lange was Prime Minister and Sir Lockwood Smith was a dulcet toned television host asking the hard questions on quiz shows W3 and It's Academic.

The Paparoa-born politician and diplomat is now Northland's latest knight, honoured for his services as an MP and as the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Now based in London, as New Zealand High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, he may be a knight, and has always spoke "quote posh", but there has also always been a down to earth quality about Sir Lockwood.

Calls to his home would often be answered by his beloved mother, Heather, who could then be heard calling "Lockie, it's the Advocate on the phone for you".

There is a strong national party link to another of Northland's honours representatives - Stephanie McMillan, QSM.

Mrs McMillan spent 17 years as the electorate secretary for Whangarei MPs John Elliot and John Banks.

However, it's her community work that has led to her QSM - that work included 14 years with Plunket; Meals on Wheels for 12 years; Red Cross for four years and Te Arahi Cub leadership for seven years.

In the Hokianga, John Klaricich, QSM, now also has a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen's Birthday honours for services to Maori and the community - not bad for someone who left school at 13.

Down in Mangawhai, they're celebrating Charles Cooke's QSM for his contribution to the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association and affiliated organisations.

Like Mrs McMillan, Mr Cooke is also a JP.

And it's fantastic to see Far North Museum stalwart Philip Cross awarded a QSM. Mr Cross is widely regarded as a key driver of the Te Ahu museum project.

As Mrs McMillan says, no one gets involved in community work to win awards, but it is nice to be acknowledged. Not just among peers, but at a Commonwealth level - congratulations to all our recipients.