72 knights, dames to arise from Key's restoration

The overwhelming majority of distinguished New Zealanders who had the option of becoming knights or dames have indicated they want to use the titles.

The creation of knights and dames was scrapped by Helen Clark's Government in 2000 but was restored by the Prime Minister in March.

Those made principal companions or distinguished companions of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the intervening years were eligible to take advantage of John Key's retrospective move. They were asked to state their preference by today.

Of 85 eligible, 72 wished to use the titles of knights and dames, while 13 opted not to do so.

The 72 names will be sent to the Queen for approval, with the list expected to be made public in August. The new knights and dames cannot officially use their new titles before then.

Those who have not taken up the offer may still be able to change their minds. The June 30 deadline was instituted merely for administrative purposes. There is no cut-off date in the royal warrant reinstating the titles. So it is possible someone having second thoughts could accept a title later subject to approval from the Queen.

Anyone who has second thoughts after accepting a title can only reverse their decision before the Queen grants approval. Once that has occurred, the title cannot be cancelled or rescinded.