Former All Blacks Captain Richie McCaw has been awarded New Zealand’s highest honour by being appointed an Ordinary Member of the New Zealand Order (ONZ).
New Zealand Rugby Chair Brent Impey says it is a fantastic accolade for McCaw who had rightly earned himself a place as one of New Zealand’s most respected people.
He says, “We are incredibly proud of Richie and what he has achieved for rugby in New Zealand. He's the embodiment of our vision for rugby to be a sport that unifies and inspires people. He has been an inspirational leader and an outstanding New Zealander We congratulate him on his fantastic recognition.”
Daniel Carter and All Blacks Assistant Coach Gilbert Enoka were also made Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM).
Former All Blacks Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock, Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Forwards Coach Mike Cron have been appointed Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM).
Brent Impey says, “Dan, Keven, Tony, Ma’a and Conrad inspired a whole generation of young players during their time in the All Blacks and entertained rugby fans both here and overseas for many years and we congratulate them on their recognition.”
He says, “Gilbert and Mike, in their respective off-field roles, also provide outstanding leadership behind the scenes and we are delighted that they have been recognised as well.
“All of the rugby folk honoured today can be proud of what they have achieved as we are of them. These Honours recognise not only the important contributions they have made to the game, both on and off the field, but also their contributions to the wider community and we thank them for that.”