In 2004 Psathas achieved the largest audience for New Zealand-composed music when billions heard his fanfares and other music at the opening and closing ceremonies of the Athens Olympics. This high-profile work was recognised in New Zealand's 2005 New Year Honours by his appointment as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM). Additionally, his "Three Psalms" piano concerto, premiered by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and soloist Stephen Gosling, was awarded the 2004 SOUNZ Contemporary Award for excellence in composition.