Insight for Sunday 13 June 2010

One-hundred and seventy-two New Zealanders have just celebrated being honoured in this years Queen's Birthday awards.

The annual tradition recognises the outstanding contributions of New Zealanders who come from all walks of life.

But who decides who should receive an honour and does their selection really reflect the achievements of New Zealanders?

Should a more independent method of selection be set up to avoid the accusation of political patronage and if so, what are the options?

Belinda McCammon investigates.

Picture: Badge of the Order of New Zealand: The country's highest honour