The former Kiwis rugby league coach Graham Lowe, who's been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, says he's felt privileged to serve the community.
Lowe received a Queen's Service Medal in 1986 and says he is overwhelmed to be recognised again.
Lowe only ever played the game at club level but went on to become one of the sport's most respected coaches.
He coached the Kiwis, the Australian Rugby League club side Manly, and reached the pinnacle of his career when he led Queensland to a State of Origin series win in 1991.
He says it's hard to single out his greatest coaching success but says it's the process that's most satisfying.
Lowe stood down as CEO of Manly last year due to health issues and and returned to New Zealand but says he'll always be involved in Rugby league in some form.
Lowe, who suffered from major health problems over the years, says being in a position raise awareness about men's health has been just as rewarding as his achievements in sport.