Seven Otago members of St John have been recognised for their contribution to their respective communities in the annual St John honours list.
St John has its own honours system, which recognises the work of its members by admitting or promoting them to the Order of St John.
The honours are an independent part of the New Zealand Royal Honours System and are sanctioned by the Queen on the recommendation of the Governor-General.
Promoted to officer in this round of honours are John Baker, of Mosgiel, and Lex Carvell, of Dunedin.
Admitted as members of the Order are Denise Finch, of Milton, Jayne Hazlett, of Ranfurly, Phill Hunt, of Wanaka, David Jasperse, of Dunedin, and David Steele, of Ranfurly.
St John South Island region general manager David Thomas said those honoured dedicated their time, skills and compassion to serving their local communities.
"St John is a community-based organisation and our members are invaluable in the work they do for both the organisation and the local community. I sincerely congratulate them on this very special recognition. It is an award they thoroughly deserve."
The seven will have their honours conferred at an investiture ceremony next year.
The St John honours system
There are several grades within the Order of St John.
Individuals are usually admitted as members of the Order.
The grades are (highest grade first):
• Bailiff Grand Cross
• Knight or Dame of Justice and of Grace
• Commander
• Honorary Sub-Prelate, Chaplain
• Officer
• Sub-Chaplain
• Assistant Chaplain
• Member
Members may be promoted to a higher grade dependent on their ongoing contribution.
St John has links back to the medieval Order of St John, and was established as a Royal Order of Chivalry in 1888.
An order of chivalry is a group of people sworn by a set of rules to provide Christian care for the sick and the poor.
