Diana Crossan says her work in equal employment opportunity and financial literacy has always been a team effort.

The former Retirement Commissioner is being honoured for her leadership in the public service and becomes a Dame.

Crossan helped to shape legislation on equal work opportunities and worked for a number of Governance boards and has served on charity boards.

She says the letter about her honour came completely out of the blue.

Dame Diana says the efforts aren't only about her, but the teams she's worked with over the years.

"We have worked really hard to try and make NZ a better place, in the area of equal opportunity and retirement income."

LISTEN ABOVE AS DIANA CROSSAN SPEAKS TO TIM DOWER