2024 King's Birthday Honours List in New Zealand Celebrates Business Pioneers

The 2024 King's Birthday Honours list in New Zealand has placed a spotlight on business leaders, with three new Knight and Dame Companions of the New Zealand Order of Merit being recognized for their contributions to the country's economy and society.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's government announced the honours on June 3, 2024, acknowledging the significant impact these individuals have had on New Zealand. The honorees include Sir Peter Beck, Dame Theresa Gattung, and Dame Joan Withers, all of whom have been influential in their respective fields.

Sir Peter Beck, the founder of Rocket Lab, has been knighted for his services to the aerospace industry, business, and education. Beck's company is a leading commercial space launch provider, having conducted over 50 space missions and launched more than 150 satellites into orbit. Prime Minister Luxon praised Beck as a pioneer in the aerospace industry who has played a crucial role in growing New Zealand's $1.69 billion space industry.

Dame Theresa Gattung, a former CEO of Telecom (now a major telecommunications company), has been recognized for her services to women, governance, and philanthropy. Gattung co-founded the Gattung Foundation and Coralus (formerly SheEO), supporting female entrepreneurs and various charitable causes. She has also held numerous governance roles, including chairing Wellington SPCA and serving on the Global Board of World Pulse.

Why this matters: The recognition of business pioneers in the 2024 King's Birthday Honours list highlights the importance of innovation and leadership in driving economic progress. This acknowledgement may inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and business leaders, contributing to New Zealand's continued economic growth and development.

Dame Joan Withers, a prominent governance expert, has been honored for her contributions to business and governance. Withers has chaired several major companies, including The Warehouse Group, and has been a director since 1997. She co-founded OnBeingBold, an initiative empowering women leaders, and has received multiple awards for her leadership and contributions to business.

In addition to these top honours, the 2024 list includes 184 individuals who have made significant contributions across various fields such as arts, sports, and community service. Notable recipients include Professor Peter John Hunter, Mrs. Arihia Darryl Bennett, and Mr. James Boult.

Prime Minister Luxon emphasized the importance of recognizing these contributions, stating, 'New Zealand is a better country for the contribution that each of these people has made over many years. On behalf of all Kiwis, I thank them for their service and congratulate them all on their well-deserved honours.'

The King's Birthday Honours list is an annual tradition in New Zealand, celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation. This year's focus on business pioneers highlights the evolving environment of New Zealand's economy and the critical role of leadership and innovation in driving progress.

Key Takeaways

• New Zealand's 2024 King's Birthday Honours list recognizes 3 business leaders as Knight and Dame Companions.
• Sir Peter Beck, Dame Theresa Gattung, and Dame Joan Withers honored for contributions to economy and society.
• Recipients recognized for services to aerospace, women, governance, philanthropy, and business.
• 184 individuals honored across various fields, including arts, sports, and community service.
• PM Luxon praises honorees, emphasizing their significant contributions to New Zealand's growth and development.