PM Luxon Praises Recipients of King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List

Luxon praised Dame Theresa Gattung, who became the first female CEO of an NZX-listed company at just 37, describing her as a trailblazer who continues to make a significant difference for women in business.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has extended his congratulations to the 176 recipients of the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List, highlighting their significant contributions to New Zealand.

Among those honoured, two have been appointed as Dames and two as Knights. “The New Zealanders being honoured in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours have given decades of service to their communities and country,” Mr Luxon stated.

He emphasized the profound impact these individuals have had on the nation. “New Zealand is a better country for the contribution that each of these people have made over many years,” he added.

Luxon praised Dame Theresa Gattung, who became the first female CEO of an NZX-listed company at just 37, describing her as a trailblazer who continues to make a significant difference for women in business.

Dame Joan Withers was commended for her exceptional career in business and governance, having led numerous major organisational transformations in significant New Zealand businesses.

Sir Peter Beck was acknowledged as a pioneer in the aerospace industry, both domestically and internationally. He has been instrumental in developing New Zealand’s $1.69 billion space industry and is recognized as a global leader in the field.

Professor Peter Hunter received recognition for his services to medical science. As one of New Zealand’s top scientists, he has made groundbreaking advancements in bioengineering research and innovation, particularly in the computer modelling of human organs.

“Every person on this list has made a difference to New Zealand and on behalf of all Kiwis, I thank them for their service and congratulate them all on their well-deserved honours,” Mr Luxon concluded.