The All Black great Michael Jones has been knighted in the New Zealand Queens Birthday honours list.
Jones, who is also a former Manu Samoa player and coach, has gained a knighthood for his services to the Pacific community and to youth.
Michael Jones playing for the All Blacks in 1998. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Sir Michael said he intended to honour the appointment with the same pride and respect he had for the All Blacks jersey he once wore.
"You get privileged with a platform and a position of influence, and I've always realised I have to take that seriously and be a good steward of that," he said.
"It's probably the greatest gift rugby gave me and I'd love to be able to use that mandate, or that honour, to hopefully make even more of a contribution," he said.
Michael Jones directs training during his time in charge of Manu Samoa. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The 56 test veteran said he did not intend to change too much.
"I'm sure I will still always be called 'Bubs' by my big sisters and 'Uncle Mickey' by my niece and nephews and 'Iceman' by my friends," he said.
"But I'll just have to get used to Sir now and again but I feel very very humbled but it's going to take a while to get used to it."
-RNZ News