Richie McCaw "Humbled" To Have been Appointed To The Order Of New Zealand

Richie McCaw has leap frogged Knights and Dames to join the most prestigious group of New Zealanders.

The World Cup winning All Black captain has been appointed to the Order of New Zealand in the New Year honours.

He won't be Sir Richard, but he will now be on an exclusive list, limited to a maximum of 20 living people at any one time.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen doesn't feature, presumably because he is still on the job.

World Rugby player of the year Daniel Carter's been made an Officer of the Order of Merit while Keven Mealamu, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Tony Woodcock have all been made Members.

All Blacks Mental skills coach Gilbert Enoka has been made an Officer while scrum coach Mike Cron is among those made a Member of the Order of Merit.

Gilbert Enoka said the likes of All Blacks strength and conditioning coach Nic Gill, physiotherapist Pete Gallagher and muscle therapist George Duncan are unsung heroes.

Former rugby referee Colin Hawke has also received an honour for services to rugby.

Other sportspeople honoured include former Silver Ferns coach Wai Taumaunu and shooter Jodi Brown, former All Blacks and current Warriors doctor John Mayhew, Black Stick Krystal Forgesson and broadcaster John McBeth.

We have two new knights and two new dames.

They are film director Jane Campion, company director Paula Rebstock, champion shearer David Fagan and Supreme Court judge Terence Arnold.

Te Kuiti competitive shearer Sir David Fagan admits it's one out of the box.

"Almost disbelief, it was a bit of a shock I suppose, and excitement all rolled into one. My wife and I were blown away really."

Sir David said it's nice for him personally but it's particularly good for rural New Zealand.

Radio Sport