He said it was important to acknowledge and celebrate people who showed "there is something special about helping others".
"We have been privileged to hear your stories. You have set a fine example that inspires, encourages and motivates others," Sir Jerry said.
The highest honours at the ceremonies will be given to Sir John, who will be knighted for his services to mental health and rugby, and to Dame Wendy Pye, who will be damed for her services to business and education.
The honour recipients at this morning's ceremony were:
* Geoffrey Ricketts, for services to education, the arts and business
* George Hawkins, for services as a Member of Parliament
* Dr John Craig, for services to conservation
* Emeritus Professor Glynnis Cropp, for services to research in the humanities
* Robert de Leur, for services to the building industry
* Graham Lowe, for services to the community
* Diane Brown, for services as a writer and educator
* Nathan Cohen, for services to rowing
* Dr Reena Ramsaroop, for services as a histocytopathologist
* Ann Andrews, for services to the community
* Giri Gupta, for services to business and the Indian community
* Jillian Nerheny, Auckland, for services to the community
* Patrick Thompson, for services to Maori and the deaf community
* Barbara Thomson, for services to the performing arts
* George Wheeler, for services to veterans
