1991 Special Honours (New Zealand)

The 1991 Special Honours were a set of New Zealand Royal Honours announced on 4 June 1991 to mark the 40th anniversary of the New Zealand Society for the Intellectually Handicapped (now known as IHC New Zealand). These honours were unusual in that they were specifically designated to recognise contributions to the intellectually disabled community.

Unlike the typical New Zealand Honours lists (Queen's Birthday, New Year), this was a singular event. The honours were bestowed upon individuals deemed to have made significant contributions to improving the lives and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities in New Zealand.

The honours included appointments to the Order of the British Empire (OBE, MBE), as well as the awarding of the British Empire Medal (BEM). The recipients represented a diverse range of individuals, including educators, advocates, caregivers, and medical professionals.

This special honours list is notable for its specific focus, highlighting the importance placed on supporting and recognising those working in the field of intellectual disability in New Zealand at that time. It stands apart from the regular biannual honours announcements, reflecting a dedicated moment of recognition.