'It's not all mine': Dame Lisa Carrington to share new honour with closest supporters

New Zealand's most successful Olympian Lisa Carrington has written another stunning chapter into her sporting story, becoming the equal youngest Kiwi to be appointed a Dame in the New Years honours. 

The five-time Olympic gold medallist has been made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of merit for services to canoe racing - an honour she's still coming to terms with. 

"It's a huge honour, and not something I thought would ever happen," she tells Newshub.

"So humbling that we know someone who's going to be a dame," adds mum Glynis.

It's a title this humble Kiwi's not completely sure she's worthy of.

"Do I deserve it? There are so many amazing other women who have this honour, and do I stack up against them?"

By them, Carrington means an elite group of only six women recognised for their services to sport. Names like Dame Valerie Adams, Dame Susan Devoy, Dame Noelene Taurua - and now Dame Lisa Carrington.. 

"I guess it just shines the light on sport," Dame Lisa adds. "That people see it as significant.. and the work hasn't gone unnoticed." 

You can't not notice Dame Lisa's work ethic. It's spanned over a decade and three Olympics with undeniable success

And it doesn't end there, 10 world championship golds, four Halberg sportswoman of the year titles, and the ultimate accolade - sportswoman of the decade.

"Now we're beginning to realise the impact it has had over the country and a number of people much wider than our small circle," dad Pat Carrington says.

But in true Kiwi fashion, the 32-year-old is already sharing the recognition.

"It's not all mine, it's many people's contributions to my performances, which has got me here."

And yes New Zealand, there's more to come.

"The goal is to inch my way towards Paris."

Until then will the down to earth girl from Ohope be called "Dame Lisa?"

"No, she'll always be our little girl," add her proud parents. "She's always Lisa." 

And that's what makes her so special.