King’s Birthday Honours 2026: Education Leaders Recognised for Transforming Learning

Several of New Zealand’s most influential educators, researchers, and academic leaders have been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours 2026, celebrating decades of dedication to improving learning outcomes, shaping education policy, and supporting student success.

Education Minister Erica Stanford praised this year’s recipients, highlighting their commitment to advancing education at every level—from primary schools and secondary education to university research and national curriculum development.

The honours acknowledge individuals whose work has not only influenced thousands of students and educators but has also helped shape the future direction of New Zealand’s education system.

Celebrating Excellence in Education

Education remains one of the most important foundations of a successful society, providing opportunities for personal growth, economic development, and social progress. The educators recognised in this year’s honours list have spent their careers helping learners achieve their potential while strengthening the quality and accessibility of education across the country.

Minister Stanford said the recipients represent the very best of New Zealand’s education sector, demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment.

Their achievements span literacy research, educational leadership, curriculum development, assessment reform, and international educational collaboration, leaving a lasting impact on generations of learners.

Sir James Chapman Honoured for Literacy Research and Educational Innovation

Professor Emeritus James Chapman has been appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (KNZM) in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to literacy education and research.

For more than four decades, Sir James has been a leading voice in understanding how children learn to read, particularly those facing learning challenges such as dyslexia and other literacy difficulties.

His pioneering research has helped transform literacy teaching practices in New Zealand and internationally. Through extensive academic work, he has contributed to the development of evidence-based approaches that support students struggling with reading and writing.

One of his most significant contributions has been influencing the adoption of structured literacy approaches across New Zealand schools. Structured literacy emphasises systematic and explicit teaching methods designed to improve reading outcomes for all learners, particularly those with learning difficulties.

His research has informed educational policy, teacher training, and classroom practice, helping ensure more children receive the support they need to succeed academically.

Dame Susan Hassall Recognised for Educational and Community Leadership

Susan Hassall has been appointed a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (DNZM) for her extensive contributions to education and community development.

Throughout her career, Dame Susan has played a pivotal role in supporting academic excellence and student achievement. Her leadership within Hamilton Boys’ High School and the University of Waikato has contributed to numerous educational and sporting successes.

Beyond educational institutions, she has remained deeply involved in community initiatives that support youth development, leadership opportunities, and charitable causes.

Her work with organisations such as Momentum Waikato, Hospice Waikato Trust, and the Association of Boys’ Schools of New Zealand has strengthened educational opportunities and enhanced community wellbeing throughout the region.

Dame Susan’s career reflects a commitment to nurturing young people while fostering stronger connections between education and community development.

Dame Elizabeth Rata’s Global Influence on Educational Research

Professor Elizabeth Rata has also been appointed a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of her internationally respected contributions to educational research and curriculum development.

A sociologist of education, Dame Elizabeth has spent more than five decades examining issues related to curriculum knowledge, educational systems, and social policy.

She played an important role in the early development of Kura Kaupapa Māori during the 1980s and has earned international recognition for her work in bilingual and immersion education.

Her research has influenced debates surrounding curriculum design, educational equity, and knowledge-based learning. Through her academic work, she has helped shape educational thinking both in New Zealand and internationally.

Dame Elizabeth’s contributions continue to inform educators, policymakers, and researchers seeking to improve learning outcomes and strengthen educational systems.

Michael Johnston Recognised for Education Reform and Assessment Expertise

Cognitive psychologist Michael Johnston has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for his services to education.

Over many years, Johnston has made important contributions to educational assessment, curriculum development, and policy reform. His expertise has been widely recognised within New Zealand’s education sector, particularly through his work analysing learning outcomes and developing evidence-based approaches to teaching and assessment.

As a Senior Fellow at the New Zealand Initiative, he has contributed to national discussions on improving educational standards, student achievement, and school performance.

His research and policy work have helped inform debates about how best to prepare students for future educational and workforce challenges.

Patrick Gale Honoured for Outstanding School Leadership

Former Rangitoto College principal Patrick Gale has been appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in recognition of his exceptional service to secondary education.

Under his leadership, Rangitoto College achieved record-breaking academic results and became one of New Zealand’s most successful secondary schools.

Throughout his tenure, Gale focused on fostering a culture of excellence while supporting student achievement across academic, sporting, cultural, and leadership activities.

His influence extends beyond school leadership. Since 2025, he has served as Chair of the NCEA Professional Advisory Group, helping provide strategic guidance on New Zealand’s national qualification framework and supporting ongoing improvements to assessment systems.

His work continues to play an important role in shaping the future of secondary education nationwide.

Alan McIntyre Recognised for More Than Five Decades of Service

Alan McIntyre has also been appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his extraordinary contribution to primary education.

As one of New Zealand’s longest-serving school principals, McIntyre’s career spans more than 50 years of educational leadership and service.

Throughout this time, he has been committed to enhancing learning opportunities for young students while supporting fellow educators and school leaders.

His work has included developing international student exchange programmes, fostering global educational partnerships, and promoting innovative teaching practices.

In addition to his leadership within schools, McIntyre has provided mentorship, advice, and professional support to principals across the country, helping strengthen educational leadership at a national level.

Honouring the Transformative Power of Education

The King’s Birthday Honours 2026 highlight the profound impact educators have on individuals, families, and communities. From pioneering literacy research and curriculum innovation to school leadership and policy reform, this year’s recipients have played a critical role in shaping New Zealand’s educational landscape.

Their achievements demonstrate how education can transform lives, create opportunities, and build stronger communities.

As New Zealand celebrates these distinguished educators, their recognition serves as an inspiration to teachers, researchers, school leaders, and students across the country. Their dedication reflects the enduring importance of education as a pathway to opportunity, achievement, and national progress.

The honours also recognise the countless educators working every day in classrooms, universities, and communities whose efforts continue to shape future generations and strengthen the nation’s future.