A dignified ceremony within an impressive venue saw Dunedin's Sir Julian Smith formally knighted in Wellington yesterday.
The chairman and managing director of Allied Press, publisher of the Otago Daily Times, was among those to receive their insignia from Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae at a ceremony at Government House.
Sir Julian said it was a proud moment witnessed by his wife Beverley, Lady Smith, and their children James, Joanna and Richard.
''The ceremony itself was very dignified, and it was an impressive venue.
''We all got a chance afterwards to look through Government House, which has had extensive refurbishment, and wander the grounds and buildings, which are in lovely surroundings.''
Sir Julian enjoyed mingling with other recipients and will return to Government House for a formal dinner this evening.
Others from Otago who received their honours yesterday were. -Prof Roger Field, Wanaka, ONZM for services to education and land-based industries;
Jeanette Crosado, Dunedin, MNZM for services to animal welfare; Geoffrey Neilson, Mosgiel, MNZM for services to agriculture; Ian Roche, Dunedin, QSM for services to lawn bowls; June Mills, Dunedin, QSM for services to the community.
