Cairns is a top-order cricketer

Chris Cairns, his wife Carin and mother, Sue Wilson at Government House. Picture / Mark Mitchell

Cricketing great Chris Cairns was "chuffed" to be honoured yesterday for his contribution to the game he loves. Cairns, who holds the world record for smashing the most test sixes, was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the game.

Work commitments kept his father - cricket legend Lance Cairns - from attending the investiture at Government House, but mum Sue Wilson and wife Carin were on hand.

Cairns has retired from test matches, having taken 218 test wickets and scored 3320 test runs, but leaves for Zimbabwe on Monday to join the Black Capsfor a one-day tournament.

"[The honour] is not something you set out to do.

"These types of awards are placed upon you through your achievements. It is very special for myself and my family."

Reflecting on his 16-year career, Cairns said beating England at Lord's in 1999 was one of the biggest highlights.

"It's just great to excel at something you love. The best thing was that people got a kick out of what I did."

- NZPA