Titles recognise service to the nation

Today's honours include two new dames - arts patron Jenny Gibbs and educationist Iritana Tawhiwhirangi.

Dame Jenny is appointed a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (DNZM) for services to the arts.

The public profile of the philanthropist and art collector was raised in 1997 when she negotiated with artists Tame Iti and Te Kaha for the return of a Colin McCahon painting stolen from the Aniwaniwa conservation centre at Lake Waikaremoana.

Dame Iritana, a founder of the kohanga reo movement, is appointed a DNZM for services to Maori education.

In a career that began as a teacher on the East Coast in 1948, she has played a major role in reversing the decline in the Maori language.

Recently retired Commerce Commission chairwoman Paula Rebstock is also recognised. She becomes a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM).

- NZPA