Former Labour Party deputy leader Annette King is being honoured in a special all-women ceremony in Wellington.

The proceedings at Government House are to celebrate Suffrage 125, commemorating New Zealand women getting the vote.

Annette King is being made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

She's New Zealand's longest-serving female MP.

As a Cabinet Minister, she held a range of portfolios including health and transport.

In total, 16 women are receiving honours.