The pair were presented with "rowing legends" medals by Rowing New Zealand at the national championships at Lake Ruataniwha at the weekend.
The national body acknowledged their contribution to the sport across decades but, in particular, their efforts in shining for the New Zealand lightweight eight at two world championship regattas.
"It feels really good, and both John and I were really honoured to receive the award," Hanan said yesterday.
"It’s a great initiative from New Zealand rowing. I think it recognises the athletes who paved the way for the ones who came after us.
"Rowing in this country has really been built from sort of the 1960s and 1970s, and people have done some amazing things.
"To be part of that club, I guess, is pretty amazing."
Hanan is still coaching the sport and is president of the North End club, and said rowing was for life.
He paid tribute to Otago coaching great Fred Strachan, who was at Ruataniwha at the age of 99 to see his former rowers be honoured.
"Fred was a great mentor, and he really inspired a generation of rowers.
"Returning that gift he gave us is something I feel strongly about, and I want to give back to other rowers."
Hanan and Bayne competed with the New Zealand lightweight eight at the world championships in 1988 (Milan) and 1990 (Lake Barrington, Tasmania).
They had placings of fifth and seventh, and had a best time of 5min 48sec.
"That would be competitive with a heavyweight eight at the time," Hanan said.
"We were a pretty slick crew."
Hanan is a passionate advocate for the place of lightweight rowing, which has long offered lighter athletes a chance to compete in the sport.
"Lightweight rowing is no longer undertaken at the New Zealand championships, which is a real shame because it precludes a lot of athletes from competing.
"It’s a different type of rowing. It’s quick, and it’s more accurate, and it’s the most competitive rowing. You have humdinger racing at lightweight level.
"The average man can’t compete in heavyweight rowing. It’s just too challenging to foot it with the larger fellas."
There is still lightweight rowing at the world championships but it has been cut from the Olympic programme.
Hanan was delighted for his former crewmate to get the legends award.
Bayne turned from rowing to ultra-running, last year winning the Great Naseby Water Race — a gruelling 200 miles (322km) — in 43hr 28min.
"That’s the sort of athlete John is. He’s just an amazing athlete.
"I think that developed from his rowing background and all that really hard work we did back in the day."
