Three time World Cup winner Farah Palmer made Dame

New Zealand rugby legend Dr Farah Palmer has been named a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (DNZM) for her services to rugby.

Dame Farah's exploits in the black jersey include three consecutive Rugby World Cup titles, leading the Black ferns to victory in 1998, 2002 and 2006. The long-time Black Fern captain was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2014 and just recently was awarded the Vernon Pugh Award for Distinguished Service at the 2022 World Rugby Awards.

Having stepped into the governance field, Dame Farah currently occupies roles as Chair of the New Zealand M?ori Rugby Board, and as a member on the New Zealand Rugby Board. Her involvement on these boards as well as her research and advocacy have had a trailblazing influence on the New Zealand rugby community.

New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson congratulated Dame Farah with the following message:

“Dame Farah’s contribution to rugby has been significant and it is fitting she has been acknowledged with a New Zealand Order of Merit (DNZM) for services to sport, particularly rugby. She has been an inspirational figure in rugby both on and off the field, but in particular she has been an influential leader in the promotion and advocacy of both M?ori and women in rugby. Her work has richly enhanced our sport and has deservedly been acknowledged in this year’s New Year Honours.”

New Zealand M?ori Rugby Board Deputy Chair Doug Jones said:

“He toa rangatahi, he toa rangatira - a young leader becomes a rangatira (chief). This quote from the late Whetu Tipiwai and the M?ori All Blacks haka seems fitting for Dame Farah’s recognition. The New Zealand M?ori Rugby Board, on behalf of all the M?ori rugby wh?nau are proud and humbled that she has been recognised for her outstanding work in rugby and Te Ao M?ori generally. We thank her and her wh?nau for the time, effort and leadership she has given to us all.”

New Zealand Rugby Chair Stewart Mitchell spoke on behalf of NZR.

“We are fortunate to have individuals like Dame Farah on our Board, in our organisation and involved in our sport over a long period of time. Her acknowledgement today is a source of pride for everyone involved in rugby and I would like to personally congratulate Dame Farah and her wh?nau for this deserved honour. Her contribution around the Board table and beyond has been substantial and impactful."

The Black Ferns shared their congratulations on social media: