Arise, Sir Don McKinnon

Don McKinnon, now Sir Donald, was knighted in recognition of his work as Commonwealth Secretary-General. Photo / Martin Sykes

Former Foreign Minister and Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon has been made a knight by the Queen.

She has appointed him as Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order in recognition of his outstanding service as Secretary-General.

Awards in the Royal Victorian Order are made personally by the Queen for services to the sovereign.

Sir Donald was Commonwealth Secretary-General from 2000 to last year.

He is also a member of the Order of New Zealand, the nation's paramount honour.

Sir Donald was Secretary-General for two terms, from 2000 to 2008.

He said he was delighted and "overwhelmed". "The Queen's gift of a knighthood is a great honour."

Prime Minister John Key welcomed Sir Donald's appointment.

"It is great to see his service has been personally rewarded by the Queen with the GCVO.

"I congratulate Sir Donald McKinnon on this honour."