Justice sector leaders recognised in King’s Birthday Honours

Justice sector leaders recognised in King's Birthday Honours

The Secretary for Justice has paid tribute to a number of people working in New Zealand's justice sector who were recognised in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours.

The honours acknowledge contributions across the judiciary, the law, community law and public service, as well as the service of Justices of the Peace who help make justice more accessible in communities across the country.

Secretary for Justice, Andrew Kibblewhite says: "These honours reflect the depth of service, leadership and commitment that helps make New Zealand's justice system stronger. From judicial leadership and legal service to community law and the contribution of Justices of the Peace, this recognition highlights work that supports fair, accessible and trusted justice services."

Among the highest recognitions, Sir Peter Boshier has been made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (KNZM) for services to the State and the judiciary. Sir Peter is well known for his long public service career, including as Chief Ombudsman and previously as Principal Family Court Judge.

Dr James Farmer KC has been appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) for services to the law. An Auckland barrister with a long and distinguished career, he is widely respected for his work in commercial and public law, particularly competition law, and for his leadership in the legal profession, including as a former President of the New Zealand Bar Association.

The Honourable Paul Davison KC has been appointed a Companion of the King's Service Order (KSO) for services to public service and the law. Justice Davison is a former High Court judge and has made a significant contribution to New Zealand's legal system through both judicial leadership and public service.

Also recognised was Jennifer Hughey, who was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for services to community law and governance.

Fourteen Justices of the Peace (JPs) were also recognised for a wide range of services that often reflected the wide roles they play in their communities. JPs make an important contribution to communities across New Zealand through the practical services they provide and the trust they build in local communities. Their recognition reflects the value of their voluntary work and the important role they play in supporting both the justice system and the communities they serve.

The JPs were recognised as follows:

Dame Companion of the Order of New Zealand:

· Susan Hassall, ONZM, of Cambridge. For services to education.

Officers of the Order of New Zealand:

· Archna Tandon, of Lincoln. For services to ethnic communities and women.

· Kenneth Williamson, KStJ, QSM, of Hamilton. For services to governance and the community.

Members of the Order of New Zealand:

· Joseph Hollander, of Palmerston North. For services to the construction industry and the community.

· Fane Fusipongi Ketu'u, of Auckland. For services to Tongan language education.

· Alan McIntyre, of Auckland. For services to education.

· David Rogers, of Stratford. For services to conservation and Māori.

King's Service Medal:

· Agnes Abuel-Guda, of Rolleston. For services to the Filipino community.

· Barbara Astill, of Auckland. For services to women, the community and governance.

· Neville Atkinson, of Kaiapoi. For services to local government and the community.

· Brian Marcroft, of Ōhaupō. For services to the community.

· Leigh Martin, of Rolleston. For services to brass bands.

· Vijeshni Rattan, of Lower Hutt. For services to the community.

· Stephen Westgate, of Whangārei. For services to the community.

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This page was last updated: 03rd June 2026