As well as her work with Pultron and as its managing director, Bronwen Holdsworth has made a significant contribution to the cultural and artistic development of Gisborne.

Douglas "Doug" McKay has had leadership roles in some of New Zealand's largest companies. He was appointed to Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Lesley Elliott's daughter Sophie was brutally murdered by her ex-boyfriend in their family home in Dunedin in 2008.

A recurring criticism of this country is that it fails to acknowledge the importance of its business leaders.

For all the accolades earned during a decorated career, this was one honour that basketballer Dillon Boucher found overwhelming.

Everyday happenings can sometimes be the beginning of extraordinary stories, children's author Betty Gilderdale says.

A veteran radio broadcaster, a children's author, sportsmen and members of the judiciary are among those recognised in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours.

Professional director and businesswoman Bridget Liddell has been on the board of many New Zealand and international organisations since the early 1990s.

All Blacks manager Darren Shand is being honoured for his services to rugby but he finds that a strange way to describe a dream job.

Outspoken Summerset Group director and former chief executive Norah Barlow was stunned to be made an officer of the NZ Order of Merit.

Queen's Birthday Honours: The nation says thanks very much for a job well done.

Christchurch millionaire and founder of the Scenic Hotel Group Earl Hagaman has been recognised for his services to business, tourism and philanthropy.

Bob Buckle is one of New Zealand's leading economists and was principal adviser to the Treasury from 2000 until 2008.

Kaye and Bernie Crosby founded Prolife Foods in 1984 from their home garage by selling nuts through vending machines.

Sir Bob Parker believes his late father waited to see his son's knighthood publicly announced before passing away.

Dancer Candy Lane says her reaction to being given the Queen's Service Medal was disbelief.

The New Zealand fashion industry's growing influence has been recognised with three longstanding leaders named in the New Year Honours.

A full list of all those that received New Year honours in 2013.

A leading Maori education expert, former school teacher and principal has been knighted.

The chance to turn a collection of neglected, dangerous, disused waterfront buildings into one of Auckland's hippest dining, retail, fashion and commercial precincts.

This newspaper was clearly on to something when it awarded its New Zealander of the Year accolade to three young women - Eleanor Catton, Lydia Ko and Lorde.

Alastair Carruthers, with an extensive business and arts career, has been made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Richard Ballantyne has been lauded for his efforts in driving business and industry in Christchurch and helping to rebuild the city after its quakes.

Former Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says his knighthood has come at a special and difficult time, as he farewells his father.

A former mayor who championed innovative ways to get youth into work says he may have retired, but still has some unfinished business.

Some names from the past have been recognised for their services to sport in the New Year Honours.

Writer Eleanor Catton hasn't set foot in New Zealand since her Man Booker Prize win, but has still never been far from the public eye.

Legendary All Black wing Bryan G Williams, who has been honoured at Government House in Auckland for services to rugby, kicked off his oval-ball career in league.