NZ to restore knighthoods

The titles of Dames and Knights are to be restored to the New Zealand honours system, Prime Minister John Key announced.

In 2000, the then Labour government dropped titles from the top levels of the honours system - Knight and Dame Grand Companion (GNZM) and Knight and Dame Companion (KNZM/DNZM).

These titles will replace the appointment of Principal and Distinguished Companion of the order which were instituted in May 2000

Some complained that the decision was part of the move to republicanism and others were unhappy that it made it difficult for people to understand what titles had been awarded.

Mr Key said it was a pleasure to return to titles that would recognise service given to New Zealand.

"This is about celebrating success," Mr Key said.

The 85 New Zealanders who were given honours which used to come with a title will now be given the opportunity to accept the title of Knight or Dame.

"The Queen has given approval for the reinstatement of titles. The changes will be finalised and come into effect in time for the Queen's Birthday Honours list in June," Mr Key said.

They will have until June 2009 to decide whether they want to accept the title.

Amongst those who can take up the knew titles are; Lloyd Geering, Ngatata Love, Eddie Durie, Peter Gluckman, Colin Meads, Stephen Tindall, Margaret Shields and Jenny Shipley.