Kiwibank Local Hero Medallists
Meet your 100 local legends

Adam Latoa starts his days bright and early, volunteering each morning at Visionwest foodbank. The youth worker arrives every weekday at 6.45am and does much of the heavy lifting needed to run the foodbank before starting his day job at 9am. Adam began volunteering with Visionwest during the first Covid-19 lockdown and never stopped. At the end of his work day he returns to the foodbank for another afternoon shift. Adam’s extraordinary contribution comes on top of his job helping rangatahi living on the streets. Through his dedication, energy and kindness he has helped feed more than 1000 families in the last year.

Alice Mander is a young activist on the move. Studying law at Victoria University, she has been a vocal student politician: she spearheaded the new National Association for Disabled Students, worked for the Victoria University Feminist Organisation, for CanDo - the Disabled Students Association, and has hosted the Disability Pride Week Panel. Her lived experience with disability gives her a clear insight into the considerable disparities that exist in society. Her thoughtful writing on this subject matter has found her audiences through The Spinoff, AttitudeTV and student magazine, Salient.

Anahera Hose spotted a hole in the education on offer in her region and fixed it. With a lack of tertiary education providers that offered NZQA accredited qualifications nearby, many in Anahera’s community found it hard to get properly trained for employment. She established Te Awanui a Rua Charitable Trust, which works with tertiary providers to create NZQA accreditation for marae based programmes - giving students the education and skills they need to find employment, while helping them learn about their culture. Anahera’s leadership has built relationships across the region and won the sponsorship of local businesses. The trust now runs numerous programmes, short courses and wananga for rangatahi to become self-sustaining.

Recreation and physical activity have been central to Andrew Leslie’s life, work and wellbeing. After a serious mountain bike accident, the CEO of Recreation Aotearoa learnt that physical activity was essential for his recovery. Spending several months in the Burwood Spinal Unit, Andrew was told he may never walk again. As he commenced his rehab it became apparent that his determination to walk, run and cycle again was spurring him on. One by one he met all of his milestones, from walking on crutches, to walking unaided, until he was back on his bike. Andrew has now turned his mind to making recreation more accessible for all and is working with the Department of Conservation to create a Great Walk that anyone can use.

Anne Collins is a lover of nature and works hard to keep it in harmony. Alongside husband Tony, she volunteers for the Rotokare Scenic Reserve, which is a large reserve of hill-country and extensive wetlands home to native forests, Kiwi, Ruru, Tui, Miromiro and Kārearea. The community-owned and driven project has been aided by Anne’s determined rat trapping and careful bird feeding. She is the North Taranaki Forest and Bird Secretary, and recently received an award from the New Plymouth District Council in honour and recognition of her voluntary efforts, alongside her husband Tony.

Belinda Hodson is a staunch advocate for thyroid health and awareness in Aotearoa. A qualified, registered health care practitioner, she suffers from thyroid disease and works to promote better support and care for those adults and children living with a thyroid condition. The administrator of the Thyroid Association of New Zealand (TANZ), Belinda has petitioned the government for increased education and treatment for thyroid patients. In 2020 Belinda gained 3650 signatures before handing her petition over on Parliament's steps, and in 2021 she spoke at the Health Select Committee. Beyond this advocacy, it’s Belinda’s leadership that is empathetic and professional that is so appreciated by the many TANZ members she supports.

Brendon Warne is determined to stamp out P in Aotearoa. His personal journey has taken him from meth addiction to drug-free campaigner. He began sharing his story and saw the power that it had to affect lives. Working with a group of former addicts, he established the Anti-P Ministry - a space for people to share their addiction experiences, listen and tautoko each other. The Ministry is now a nationwide organisation with almost 7,000 members, walk-in clinics, online support groups and an app to help members track their recovery. After more requests for face to face support, the Ministry crowdfunded a mobile clinic, and in 2020 took it on the road to help addicted New Zealanders, no matter where they are.

With flair and vision Bridget Graham has transformed an historic building into a community hub. Chairperson of the Friends of the Onehunga Community House, Bridget led the incredible fundraising of $981,000 to restore the once well-used community house to its former glory. Now a fully repaired category one heritage building, it’s a focal point for all sectors of the community, meeting a range of cultural, social and recreational needs and connecting people in the neighbourhood. A comfortable space, the once derelict building is now used by 3000 Onehunga residents each month. Bridget’s perseverance has brought the heart back to the community once more.

Bridget Palmer is a conservation hero whose dedication is helping save the North Island Brown Kiwi. Many projects and care and protection techniques have been initiated under Bridget’s watchful eye. For 19 years she’s been a conservation officer for the Department of Conservation, she volunteers with the Whakatāne Kiwi Project, trains teams of new conservationists and works with tamariki to give them first-hand experiences in the bush. Bridget’s engaging personality and enthusiasm rubs off and she has rallied community members to assist with the trapping of possums in the area through the HALO Project. In 2019, Bridget’s commitment to mentoring was recognised when she won the ‘Kiwis for Kiwi’ Trainer of the Year award.

Bryce Dinneen has been pushing the limits since he was small. An active sportsman throughout his youth, a spinal injury changed his life and he became tetraplegic. Determined to ensure he and others could have outdoor experiences, he set-up Wish4Fish to help people living with a disability get out on the water, and feel the joy of the sea. Bryce fundraised $2.4 million to have a catamaran built that is fully wheelchair accessible, with an accessible shower, toilet and elevator. For ten years Bryce has been providing free trips for beneficiaries, the disabled and their caregivers; he’s determined that access to Aotearoa’s beautiful ocean should not be off-limits for anyone.

A passionate dancer, Brylee Mills wasn't going to stop when she lost her arm as the result of a car accident at the age of six. Her unwavering belief in herself, and the strong support of friends and whānau, helped her realise her dream. Being the first disabled dancer to train at Brent Street Performing Arts Centres full time programme in Sydney, Brylee has gone on to dance and choreograph professionally all around Aotearoa. Brylee has taught and educated young dancers all around New Zealand, empowering and inspiring them to be the best versions of themselves.
A mentor and public speaker, Brylee shares her story to empower others to overcome their own obstacles and still achieve their dreams. She is passionate about advocating for the inclusion of people with disabilities and educating tamariki about how they can be part of a more inclusive Aotearoa.

Cameron (Cam) Smith is the Founder and CEO of Take2, a programme giving people in prison a second chance. Take2 provides a three-year programme that includes one year of intensive web development and life skills training, followed by two years of reintegration support to successfully re-enter the community. Working with a number of philanthropic organisations and tech firms, Cam successfully raised funding of $1.5 million for the programme, leaving his full-time job to make it happen.
Take2 aims to reduce reoffending rates, create post-prison professional employment, and increase the representation of Māori and Pasifika in the tech ecosystem. Cam has fiercely chased his vision, persuading prison operators and the Department of Corrections to approve the pilot, a New Zealand first. Now the programme is beginning its expansion in the prison system due to its popularity and success, with the pilot programme having the highest engagement rate and lowest absenteeism rate of all programmes operating at the prison

​​Caroline Herewini is a human rights advocate, committed to ending all forms of violence against women and children. She is the Kaiwhakahaere (Chief Executive) and driving force of Te Whare Tiaki Waahine Refuge Charitable Trust for over 20 years. The trust's point of difference, from non-indigenous refuge services in Aotearoa, is in its foundations underpinned by Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Caroline is a founding member of the Everywoman Treaty Global Coalition, International Network to End Violence Against Women and Girls and Breaking Silent Codes- a movement of indigenous women trying to stop violence against women and children throughout the Pacific. She has been a keynote speaker and presented in international conferences in Mexico, Washington DC, United Nations (New York), Canada, The Hague, South Africa, East London, Taiwan and Australia. From her office in Porirua she remains committed to train social workers and fields emergency calls, keeping women and children safe.

Channey Iwikau, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, takes care of those around him. A wonderful father and loving uncle to all, Channey strives to give back to his community. A trustee on the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, a pou for Whānganui Iwi and Ngāti Hauā, he is a trustee for Te Kura o Ngapuke, and a kaiawhina for many local rugby teams and kapa haka rōpu. Channey is not only the face of an iwi, but he is also the voice for those who are unable to speak out. He is a leader and warrior for families, prepared to make sacrifices to ensure others are safe and well. A role model, he inspires his people with his commitment to Te Ao Māori.

Charlie is a role-model and an advocate for young people in the LGBTQ+ community. The Year 13 student at Palmerston North Boys High School has lobbied for a healthier environment for LGBTQ+ students where they can be themselves. Taking on board his feedback the school library now has rainbow stickers on books with LGBTQ+ content and Charlie’s significant achievement came when he challenged outdated rules at his school. The largest impact of this was on the School's Ball. After many discussions with the schools administration, Charlie became the first student to wear a dress to the ball and advocated for students to be able to bring same-sex partners, challenging traditional values of PNBHS. Charlie said his leading confidence came from students, who felt they had no voice, thanking him for the work he has done and enabling the LGBTQ+ youth community to believe that one day students will not need to hide their identity, free from shame and outdated rules. Charlie is a courageous role-model, and simply wants people to be free to express themselves.

Christopher (Chris) Efford is unwavering in his support of young people, even when he’s stretched across multiple jobs. By day Chris works for the Ministry of Social Development as the West Coast Area Youth Manager, and in every other spare minute he’s doing all he can to encourage rangatahi. The Chairperson for the Grey District Youth Trust, and Area Youth Manager for St John Youth on the West Coast, Chris is a natural leader. Skilled in creating experiences and connections for young people, Chris helps run the Greymouth Youth Council, Greymouth LGBTQIA+ Youth Group, and in 2022 he will coordinate the National Youth Festival.

Dame Areta Koopu, Te Aitanga a Hauiti, Ngāti Kahu, is a veteran social worker and activist. She is a former Māori Women's Welfare League President, a Human Rights Commissioner, a Waitangi Tribunal member, a mother and a grandmother. Her work is esteemed throughout Aotearoa, and her role in establishing kohanga reo and promoting te reo Māori in schools has had a long-lasting positive impact. She has spoken up for women and their place in society; she has been vocal about the importance of access to good health services for women, especially cervical cancer screening. Dame Areta serves on the Māori Women's Development committee, which helps finance and empower Māori women to go into business. Known for her momentum and energy, she believes there’s a solution for everything.

Dave Letele’s, Ngati Maniapoto, Samoa, life has been one of rise and fall, and in sharing the tough times he’s motivated thousands of New Zealanders to get fit and healthy. Known for his own weight loss story and setting up the Brown Buttabean Motivation (BBM) programme in Manukau, Dave’s gyms provide a space to get fit, and is entirely free. Understanding the financial barriers many people face, Dave also started the BBM foodbank with the support of corporate sponsorship, signing a lease for a permanent standalone foodbank to help up to 700 whānau per week with food parcels. More recently, he has opened a community kitchen to help educate whānau and vulnerable people. His determination to see people well has led to the expansion of BBM with a new site in West Auckland. Dave has created a non-judgmental atmosphere to encourage physical wellbeing through activity, giving a push-start he’s helped thousands to lose weight and live well.

Debbie Griffiths walks alongside those in her community who are struggling with poverty, isolation or homelessness. For 15 years Debbie has worked at Visionwest Community Trust, assisting whānau by providing intensive support and budgeting advice for those in need. She has a natural rapport with people and gains the trust of those facing life’s big challenges. A true community connector, Debbie also works with those recovering from alcohol and addiction, and volunteers for Surf Lifesaving. Investing herself totally, Debbie is able to pinpoint her clients' underlying needs, and knows she is on the journey with them for as long as it takes.

Lawyer turned social entrepreneur, Deborah Manning always knew she wanted to make a positive difference to the world. Nine years ago she left her career to find a solution to New Zealand’s dual problems of food insecurity and food waste, and launched KiwiHarvest. Overtime KiwiHarvest expanded and rescued more than 6.6 million kilos of food, which was redistributed to families in need, diverting 17.5 million kilos of carbon equivalent emissions from landfill. However, to connect food supply with food demand required better storage and nationwide infrastructure. Her solution was the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) which now helps join the dots between those able to supply donated food and those needing it. Since launching in July 2020, the NZFN has redistributed over 3.9 million kilos of food to food hubs countrywide. Together, KiwiHarvest and the New Zealand Food Network have provided food for more than 28 million meals to people in need across Aotearoa.

Denis Wood runs The Shed Project, a place for the disabled community to learn on the Kāpiti Coast. Beginning life in 2014, The Shed Project offers a raft of workshops and skills training to  build inclusion and employment for local disabled and disadvantaged people. Carpentry is the main craft on offer, with participants learning to build furniture and develop their own creative projects. Feeling part of the community can be very difficult for the disabled, but by creating dedicated opportunities to socialise and work The Shed Project changes this. Selling their products through the shed means participants can gain income while building confidence in themselves.

Donna Turtle Sarten, known as Turtle, wants to keep New Zealand children warm at night. Give a Kid a Blanket, is the charity she set up with her partner Bernie Harfleet, to provide blankets and bedding for families in need. Starting life in 2015, the charity was established after she read a coroner's report that said a child’s damp bedroom had contributed to their death. Since then it has gifted 140,000 items of warmth to families and children. Turtle is also an artist whose subject matter confronts serious social issues such as family violence and poverty; her work raises awareness and promotes discussion with new audiences.

Dr Glen Davies is helping people live better lives with diabetes support. With 2400 Facebook members attending weekly meetings to learn about their bodies, Glen’s work is about encouraging lifestyle changes. In 2021 he and his team assisted 120 patients to reverse their type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Glen also arranges large-scale public nutrition events to reach more people. Connecting with Māori has been difficult through conventional methods, however Glen’s approach has been to engage directly, arranging meetings in local marae, to great success. This mahi has seeded the beginnings of change within communities, with the establishment of communal gardens and a greater focus on whole foods.

Dr Khurram Malik is driven to change the powerlessness, decriminalisation and stigma of those marginalised in our community. Originally from Pakistan, Khurrum was influential in fighting against harsh penalties enforced by the country's blasphemy law. Now a qualified social worker, he dedicates his life to helping those with a marginalised voice. Since arriving in New Zealand in 2009 he has supported former refugees, the disability community and has worked in mental health and addiction services. He set-up the international charity, Humanitarian Organisation for Poverty Eradication (HOPE), which works across Pakistan, Thailand and New Zealand to safeguard the human rights of migrants, asylum seekers and refugees, and those whose lives have been traumatised by disasters, poverty, persecution or discrimination. His charity also works more locally, in the South and West Auckland collecting and distributing food to marginalised communities.

Eli-Ana (Eli) Maiava has used her initiative to create a heart for her community. Whare Manaaki is a kaupapa Māori, community space located in the middle of Greymouth - and it was Eli who got it running. She noticed that while Hokitika marae, Arahura, was well used, there was not a dedicated community space for whānau near Greymouth. With funding support from Te Putahitanga, Eli sought to create a hub for local activities and events, a place to gather, a space for Māori to connect. Whare Manaaki now hosts speakers, provides links to community services and offers educational support to schools wanting to integrate tikanga Māori into their activities. Eli’s mahi has built unity in her community.

Emma Corbett spends her days as a public servant and her nights designing disability garments.   Her fashion innovations create tailored solutions for amputees and the disability community. Having worked previously in the disability sector, and studied fashion overseas, Emma is uniquely positioned to create clothing solutions for those with individual needs. She’s recently designed a product to help amputees protect against the coldness of a lost limb. The limb warmer helps relieve the physical and emotional discomfort of a lost limb. Emma knows there is a lack of products available for low blood flow, and with her creativity and knowledge she wishes to change that.

Offering time and emotional support, Erin Scarlett O'Neill helps families struggling with addiction.  Her support group, Brave Hearts NZ, Manawa Kaha Aotearoa, assists the relatives of those living with addiction issues. With a lived experience in her own family, Erin was compelled to start the group; she felt families needed more nurturing during this difficult time. In its five years, Brave Hearts has helped hundreds of families. Beginning life in Tauranga with 60 parents, Brave Hearts is now a nationwide network of face to face and online meetings. Encouraging families to be strong, it offers much needed empathy, and Erin has helped many parents support their children into rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of living addiction free.

Ethan Reille is an unstoppable force in his community. Young, articulate, honest and kind, he has both local and national leadership roles. A Waitaki District Youth Council Chairperson, a student representative on the Waitaki Boys’ Board, a Safer Waitaki community member, and a local AA council youth cadet, he has a full timetable. Ethan’s passionate about social justice and is an advocate for youth mental health, homelessness, the housing crisis and the Pasifika community. He was chosen to be one of the Hive 15 members, a group of young people selected by the Ministry of Youth Development to engage with central government politics. Ethan’s energy is helping build safer, fairer and healthier communities.

Faye Dravitski has a special way with horses, and she shares her love of them with others through Riding for the Disabled. For more than 23 years she has been the backbone of the charity that supports people with disabilities to ride: taking new-comers under her wing, teaching grooming, how to saddle, to bridle the horses and how to lead them. She builds confidence in riders. She repairs broken equipment and tends to all the practical needs to run the programme, and in her 80s she does all this with patience and positivity. Faye is an inspiration to her New Plymouth community.

Gary Mitchell’s fierce protection of the environment has motivated hundreds to join him. He wants to see New Zealand predator free. Witnessing increasing pest numbers in his Wellington neighbourhood, he established three, local Predator Free groups; together with 386 volunteers they’ve killed 11,000 pests using 400 traps since 2016. For more than 20 years he’s mobilised communities in Aotearoa and abroad to clean-up their beaches, organising more than 200 events that have removed hundreds of tonnes of rubbish. Gary does this all on top of his day to day life as a Police Custody Officer; he's committed to helping prisoners and young offenders turn their lives around. Gary’s energy is boundless and he is determined to improve the world around us.

Gavin Evans is a Lego Community Ambassador and trustee of Lego Users Group (LUG) South. The Southland group comprises fans of the building blocks, whose passion spills over into support for the community. One of its many charitable endeavours, LUG South donates thousands of Lego blocks to children at Southland Hospitals each year, ensuring sick children have access to fun toys. The LUG South Charity founded by Gavin also provides food and petrol vouchers for families at this time of need. A full-time delivery truck driver, and on top of family life, Gavin coordinates the annual Southland Brick Show, which brings together 90 exhibitors from around the country and draws 6000 visitors, as well as many other smaller events. He takes most of his annual leave each year for the event, which not only shows off the artistry and skills of the makers but also raises money for the charity's ongoing work in the community.

For 27 years Graeme Neylon has shown serious determination and perseverance in serving his community. On the Buller District Council for nearly three decades, the former Deputy Mayor and Chairperson of the Inangahua Community Board, Graeme is still working for the Buller community. He has been steadfast and hardworking throughout his career, and is known for getting the job done. He is currently Co-chair of the West Coast/Tai Poutini Regional Skills Leadership Group and is on the Board of Trustees for the West Coast PHO. Graeme’s immense loyalty and dedication to his community and its development has earned him the respect of his council peers and locals alike.

Hiria Tareha does so much for the women of Wellington, and much of it is unseen. Hiria is the General Manager of Te Whare Nukunoa, the Wellington Homeless Women’s Trust. The trust provides up to three months of short-term accommodation for women and much needed wrap-around care to rebuild their confidence, physical and emotional health. It is a women-only space. Hiria has worked for the trust’s kaupapa with tireless commitment and in 2021 was able to expand its support through a contract for services with MSD, increasing the number of beds from five to 14. Hiria ensures the complex issues and life experiences these women bring with them are met with compassion and understanding at Te Whare Nukunoa, she considers this mahi a privilege.

​​Activist, politician, husband, father, and grandfather, Hone Harawira is also a community leader and volunteer. Using his voice to bring attention to issues affecting Māori, his life and career has been influential in New Zealand society. Known for being a strong supporter of the Far North, Hone serves some of the poorest people in Aotearoa. His recent contribution to the area is his Open the Curtains Trust, with a purpose to uplift whānau who are disconnected by ‘opening the curtains and letting the light in’. The trust works by assessing whānau needs, helping parents with budgeting advice and encourages unemployed family members to take pride in their communities by gathering kai, helping their neighbours and tidying their properties.

Social entrepreneur, Jacinta Gulasekharam, has led open, frank conversations to help end period poverty. Advocating for free access to period products, Jacinta has made this a reality by co-founding Dignity in 2016, an initiative that gives free products through a buy-one-give-one  scheme. 40,000 products have been made available to people in need so far, and her work on the The Positive Period campaign won the Government’s agreement to fund free products in schools. Jacinta is a 2021 Wellbeing Impact Award winner and Edmund Hillary Fellow, and as a young Sri-Lankan Kiwi, she is committed to being an inclusive voice in her advocacy for period equality in Aotearoa.

Janelle Beazeley has been a stalwart figure in local Kapa Haka for more than 43 years. She has volunteered for the Waitangi Cultural Society, the Kapa Haka committee that manages all kapa haka within Te Tai Tokerau, for most of her life. In 2008 she was recognised as a Life Member of the committee after 30 years of service. She has encouraged many young people into further education, and believes that we should never stop learning. When Janelle retired she went to work for her marae, hapu and iwi and has been active in the development of a succession plan that will support whānau into the future. In addition to being a JP, she is a mother, grandmother and recently, a great-grandmother.

Jason Lougher’s understanding and compassion for his community shone at the time when it was most needed. The Whakaari/White Island eruption had recently taken place, then the first Covid-19 lockdown occurred and the people and tourism sector were hurting. As a local business leader Jason knew how important it would be for the community to have a place to connect, and with his friend Michaela, set up the Facebook page, Whakatāne Matters. The page quickly became a space to air feelings, find out about Covid-19 and to promote businesses that were struggling. From this Jason saw the need to start the first-ever regional online shopping mall, so that Whakatāne retailers without websites or digital shopping capability could sell their products through Level 3.

"Born in Rotorua, Jessamine (Jess) Bradley has been deeply connected to her community throughout her life. Working in tourism since a young age, Jess has always been people-centric and resourceful, and enjoys every day working for the multi-award winning Kaitiaki Adventures. Covid-19 has thrown in some new and unique challenges, however Jess has continued to find solutions to keep her colleagues working while also serving the environment and her community.

Jess has been an integral part in three hugely successful environmental initiatives: Project Whakahaumanu (Revive & Restore to Health) to restore and protect the whenua of Te Wehikura, Te Kaingahu and Waipapa 1A3; Te Maunga ō Tarawera (Mount Tarawera) conservation programme, eradicating wilding conifer and restoring the heritage landmark; The Kaitiaki Kurawai, a water catchment system used on Urupā to enable whānau to seamlessly observe tikanga on wahi tapu (sacred sites) whilst mitigating plastic degradation. These initiatives have not only created work opportunities to keep her tourism employees afloat, but they have helped raise awareness and appreciation for iwi and eco-tourism collaborations and its fundamental benefit to the wider community and tourism industry."

Jignal Bhagvandas has shared her passion for dance with hundreds of young people. The founder of Aaja Nachle, now one of New Zealand’s largest Indian dance school, Jignal has taught more than 1000 children to be confident and comfortable in their own culture and identities. The school began when she herself was at college, and now has 15 teachers on board and a fulltime management team. Jignal trained as a doctor and now sits on the board of Aaja Nachle, and its linked charity, Arogya Mantra. Arogya Mantra delivers free bollyfitness classes to those in need in the South Asian community, as well as offering free medical screenings. Her charity has enabled many free çcultural community events, hundreds of free school workshops, $10,000 in research scholarships in migrant health to medical students, and launched the countries first Asian dance company, due to perform at the Auckland Arts Festival in 2022. Her charity is grassroots driven, the people who directly benefit from its services are given leadership roles.

John Oliver is Hawke’s Bay born and raised. For the past 49 years John has served the Otane Volunteer Fire Brigade. Joining the brigade at the age of 20 he has served his last 31 years as Chief Fire Officer. John’s dedication has earned him numerous accolades over the years including an Honorary Life Membership to the Otane Volunteer Fire Brigade and a Central Hawke’s Bay Civic Honours Award for his voluntary work. With his ingenuity he developed the Otane District Water Tanker, a mobile service offering reprieve to rural communities struggling through the harsh summer months. His passion for the Otane community has seen him leading the development of the community netball and tennis courts and overseeing all maintenance for the Otane Arts and Crafts Centre.

Juanita Willems leads by example. The coordinator for Foster Hope Otago is often found working alongside volunteers to sort out backpacks, pyjamas and toiletries for young people in need. The 100% volunteer-based charity supports children in care with essential items, and has assisted 1800 children in the region. After becoming blind herself, she is now the coordinator for Blind Citizens Network Otago. To achieve all this Juanita has had to learn braille and find new ways of working. In addition to her voluntary work, Juanita has set up her own charity, Darkness into Light, to support children with disabilities. Juanita has overcome huge challenges and is admired for her ability to always find a way.

Karamea Matthes runs the One ear Out campaign, encouraging pedestrians to be aware of their surroundings when crossing train tracks. Karamea’s son Keenan was struck and killed by a train in 2017 while wearing headphones. An advocate for the installation of safe level crossings, she speaks to schools, sports clubs, and at weekend markets to help change the public’s behaviour. The One Ear Out campaign literally advises people to just wear one headphone - not two - to keep one ear out while crossing roads and tracks. Karamea does not want anyone to experience the loss she and her family have faced over the last few years; she wants people to get home safely and does this mahi in honour of her son.

Giving and compassionate, Katrina O’Brien believes in paying it forward. The owner of a family trucking business, Katrina also cooks for Meals on Wheels in Taihape and runs her own community support programme, Pay It Forward Taihape. Katrina gives food parcels to families and puts together careful packages of baby gear for new mums gifted by others. She’s passionate about connecting people with the resources they need, and once a call has come in asking for support she tirelessly rings her networks and suppliers to deliver what is needed. Katrina is known for being non-judgemental and a safe person to go to for help, and she truly looks after the tight-knit community of Taihape.

Kelvin Watt knows that a common purpose brings people together. The Covid-19 lockdowns pushed the Regional Manager for the Graeme Dingle Foundation to create innovative solutions to community needs. Kelvin launched two new pilot programmes in the past year, Career Navigator Community (for jobseekers), and Stars Teina (for intermediate students). In addition to trialing the new programmes he ran the successful Future Work Conference for school students, allowing them to hear from 75 businesses across 40 industries, and giving a first-hand insight into the many career opportunities on offer. Taking on additional programmes means finding extra staff, resources and funding, but Kelvin overcomes these challenges with a smile, because he is genuinely committed to empowering self belief in rangatahi.

After recovering from a 14-year battle with an eating disorder, Kristie Amadio is now sharing her story and skills with others. In 2017 she created Recovered Living, the world’s first eating disorder service that offers both 24/7 live-in care and online support. The model has been so successful that Kristie and her team have worked with more than 500 clients internationally. The next chapter is Recovered Living NZ, a not-for-profit residential treatment centre in Christchurch. Putting her entire life savings into buying a home for the centre, it will be the first of its kind in Aotearoa. Kristie is a selfless and unstoppable pioneer, ensuring people with eating disorders can recover and experience a full life.

Kylie Jonita Miringa Poihipi, Te Whānau ā Apanui, is a hands-on leader within her iwi. A central figure in Te Whare Rauora (Healing from Meth programme), Kylie makes herself available 24 hours a day and gives her support whenever it is needed. Kylie ensures tikanga Māori is at the forefront of Te Whare Rauora and encourages participants and supporters to take part in every aspect of the programme, which starts each day with a karakia. She is a sought-after kaikaranga and shares her knowledge of this art to empower other wāhine. A deep listener, Kylie’s integrity and fluency in Te Reo Rangatira mean she is a respected participant at hui, communicating with kaumatua, kuia, pakeke, rangatahi, taiohi and tamariki with wisdom and ease.

Latham Martin rolls up his sleeves and helps whenever he can. As well as being a district councillor, the former Westland Deputy Mayor and the president of the Lion’s club, he is constantly looking for ways to develop connections in his community. Only in his twenties, Latham overcame a serious accident in early 2021, which saw him lose a lot of blood and walk a lengthy recovery. Since then he’s been public in his encouragement of blood donation through the New Zealand blood service. It’s his positive and giving nature that has helped him get well and to continue his mahi growing the communities of Hokitika.

Liam McLeavey was just 14 when he came up with his first business idea to support his community. Get-Go was created to bring together employers, government departments, education organisations and students to tailor job seekers’ skills to employers’ needs. The largest labour market development programme ever seen in Horowhenua, Get-Go received $800,000 in capital investment from the Government. Liam’s energy and vision is sought out by numerous government working groups, he has represented New Zealand internationally at the Social Enterprise World Forum in Edinburgh, and was recently selected as a 2020 Global Teen Leader, joining a select group of 32 young people from 18 different countries.

Lisa Phillips began her career in education, but quickly saw that some young people were not achieving because of substance abuse. She turned her energies towards retraining in health, with a focus on addiction. She is a passionate believer that addiction support is crucial for recovery and saw that a recurring barrier to accessing that support was cost. A comprehensive assessment starts the process of linking clients with the appropriate support, but the assessment alone can cost $800. To remedy this Lisa offers her professional skills to undertake assessments free of charge, with her compassion, she is changing lives.

Delivering Meals on Wheels, Lorraine Gordon’s knock at the door is much appreciated by the elderly she serves in her community. Upon retiring she decided to volunteer alongside her husband Robert, and the pair give hours of their time each week to get deliveries out punctually. A steadfast, reliable part of the Meals on Wheels whānau, she and Robert have been driving and serving meals for nearly ten years. Lorraine is also a well-known knitter, generously donating baby clothes to households in New Zealand and overseas to keep newborns warm. In 2020 both Lorraine and Robert were recognised by the New Plymouth District Council for their services to volunteering.

Mandy Walker seizes the day and gets things done. Mandy is the Operations Manager at Whakaatu Whanaunga Trust, a small social service organisation in Ōpōtiki. Mandy and her team have built a kaupapa that focuses on inclusivity and creating a non-judgemental environment so that people can feel secure in asking for help. Her pragmatism has seen her develop and implement a practical solution for the housing crisis; responding to the dire need for homes in the region, she set up a transitional housing project, He Kainga Taupua. Sourcing three relocatable houses, arranging their transportation to Ōpōtiki and employing rangatahi to rebuild and refurbish them, she has created transitional homes for families in need. With an additional three houses waiting on site for completion, her energy will get the job done. Mandy also coordinates the Essential Housing Repairs programme through the TPK Māori Housing Network, and works alongside whānau toward being housed on their whenua, as well as now working with her team to deliver social housing provisions.

Marty Price contributes his time to more than a dozen volunteer organisations in Nelson. Marty is currently Team Leader and one of the four co-founders of the Richmond Community Patrol; he delivered emergency food parcels via to Kai With Love during lockdowns, and he lends his ears and offers emotional support to men living with depression. He's worked as a Liaison patroller for the Police, as a Urban Search and Rescue, and MIST first responder, street ambassador and District Support Officer. As a DHB Needs Assessor he has the right listening skills and empathy for this important mahi. His exceptional community service, friendly outgoing nature and willingness to share his time without hesitation, have cemented his standing in the region.

For nearly 10 years Matt Dagger has been running Kaibosh Food Rescue - saving surplus food and getting it to people who need it most. Kaibosh Food Rescue has become a household name in Wellington. Its 150+ network of volunteers are part of a community with two goals in mind: zero food waste and zero poverty. Matt has played a key role in supporting other food rescue organisations around the country, and recently established the Aotearoa Food Rescue Alliance - a group of 22+ food rescue charities working together to support one another’s mahi and skills. Matt is the Chair of the alliance. Admired for his kindness and energy, Matt’s work has raised awareness and action about food waste.

Maurice Brownlee has been a source of great support for Maungakaramea. Connected to numerous voluntary organisations throughout the decades, he has offered steady, practical and financial support for many. He helped build the Tangihua Lions lodge, by both using his farm as security to secure a loan for the build, and by using his hands; once that job was complete he turned his attention to designing and building a complementary confidence course; he set-up the Maungakaramea axemen’s club; and he was a school committee chairman for eight years - his interests lie in supporting all aspects of the community. He and his wife Jacqui have gifted thousands of dollars in-kind to the Mid-Western Lions club and to Mid-Western Rugby by donating cattle.

Dynamic and energetic, Megan Fairley sees the positive in life. The former Cadbury factory worker decided to arrange farewell tours of the iconic site before the factory’s closure in 2018.  Ticket sales from the tours raised $8000, which was donated to I Am Hope, a charity supporting young people’s mental health; the donation equated to 70 free counselling sessions for tamariki and rangatahi. Megan is a dedicated fundraiser, devoting every Saturday morning to collecting gold coin donations at the Farmer’s Market car park, which this year have totalled over $9000 that has gone back into community and children’s charities. Megan is focused on creating more societal awareness of the importance of mental health support.

Flying is an everyday part of life for Melanie Salisbury, so it seemed only natural to start a fundraiser in the air. Melanie decided to highlight and raise money for the NZ Returned Services Association, Starship and the NZ Warbirds Association through her company Aviation Tours.  The Poppy and Stars Flight took a plane down the length of the country guided by 34 volunteer pilots carrying a giant poppy and star artwork. The Poppy and Stars Flight stopped at numerous small towns throughout the country where locals added their touch to the artworks and held events raising $15,600 to be shared between the three charities.

Within days of the first Covid-19 lockdown Michaela Wellauer was creating connections in her community. She and friend Jason created the Whakatāne Matters page on Facebook. This page became the centre for mental health check-ins, business advice, Covid-19 updates, humour, love, manaakitanga, and gave local retailers the opportunity to share products and services. The daily messages kept the community going. Michaela is a business owner and part of the Whānau on Wheels initiative that provides bikes for whānau who cannot afford them. She is actively involved in the Onepu Mountain Biking Park and local biking groups and provides prizes and donations to initiatives supporting tamariki and cycling throughout the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Michelle Hartley is the other half of Eat a Rainbow, the culinary team gifting meals to families in need. The core values that underpin Michelle, and business partner Momo’s work, are to do good with food. The pair known for giving hundreds of frozen meals to charity each year increased their awhi during Covid-19, setting a goal to deliver 1000 frozen meals to their community. It was a big task, but through public donations Michelle and Momo were able to gift hundreds and hundreds of meals to those struggling financially. During a difficult time Michelle and Momo’s efforts provided comfort and sustenance.

Miriama (Midi) Rapana is a community connector. In the Northcote, Birkdale and Beachhaven neighbourhoods she is a well-known support person, career finder, motivational speaker, financial mentor and she brings her community together with her famous barbecues. She offers an open-door policy to anyone that needs assistance with housing, food, transportation and finance, or simply a cup of tea. Her guidance has encouraged many to upskill and find new employment and she has been a bridge between local people and government agencies. Her openness, relatability and selflessness is valued by her community - she thrives when those around her are happy, safe and feel cared for.

Momo Martin is a culinary hero in Taranaki. Running two food businesses alongside partner Michelle Hartley, she feeds hundreds in her community with her heart and her hands. Providing free, delicious frozen meals through their company Eat a Rainbow, Momo is committed to nourishment through healthy, naturally colourful food. Gifting hundreds of meals to families in need through Gabby’s Starlit Hope and Roderique Hope Emergency Housing, Momo has removed incredible stress for families who are between homes or living with sick children -  simply with a freezer full of good food - gifting a meal that can be shared together.

Creating spaces to connect and grow is at the heart of Murdoch Ross’s work in Whangarei. With limited mobility and speech as a result of cerebral palsy, Murdoch has overcome many obstacles to serve his community. In the 1980s Murdoch floated the idea of a new community centre and got work underway on its build after much fundraising and sponsorship from the community. He then spearheaded the build of a new medical centre, which has served the community well over decades. In 2013 Murdoch encouraged the local community to establish a community garden and orchard on Ross family land between the Community Centre and the Parua Bay village. Murdoch’s vision and leadership has been central in creating community spaces in Whangarei.

Arriving in New Zealand in 2001, Mustafa Derbashi has supported  those new to New Zealand. With a passion for people and an understanding of the needs of Middle Eastern families culturally, physically and mentally, Mustafa knows what a huge adaptation it is to transition into a new bi-cultural environment. He has worked with refugees in Dunedin, particularly Syrian men, through an integration programme he designed which aims to reduce family violence in the refugee community, improve spoken English, provide guidance on New Zealand parenting, and help men find employment. He has provided interpreting support to those engaging with various agencies from Police to local government. From organising cultural nights, festivals, to school youth camps, Mustafa loves to help people to recognise their skills and potential.

Ngatuakana (Tuakana) O-Rangi Wichman is a dynamic resource in her community. For 25 years she has run a foodbank, regularly making deliveries to families in her car; she sources and redistributes clothing to those who need it; volunteers at Auckland’s Habitat for Humanity Restore Shop, and has assisted in building Habitat for Humanity houses in Fiji and Nepal; and lends her services to Radio Rhema. She wants to see families financially independent and spends a lot of time sharing budgeting advice, and walks alongside them in that journey. She has an incredible ability to relate to people - from the very young, to the very old - and is a vital source of inspiration to those around her. At 89 years of age she is not slowing down.

Inspiring hundreds and thousands of people with her frank, honest and supportive kōrero, Nicola (Nix) Adams has become a role model to many. The death of her young son led her to drug use and then the loss of her marriage and two older children. Nix’s vulnerability in sharing her story and her determination to turn her life around has made her famous on social media; she has 422,000 Facebook followers. She uses her platform to help people by raising awareness about mental health, domestic and sexual abuse. She empowers and uplifts others with her mahi. She is now co-host on Māori TV show, Terei Tonight, which has catapulted her further into the public eye, but Nix’s greatest achievement is being back with her two children.

Supporting rangatahi into secondary school is one of Nicole Geyser’s jobs. The Year 13 student at Marlborough Girls' College is a Stars Peer Mentor, the Stars programme matches older students with Year 9 arrivals. It’s more than a buddy system, the programme is designed to build trusting relationships between students that foster wellbeing, hauora, and the confidence to reach out in times of need. Despite Covid-19's impact on education, and a significant knee injury, Nicole’s consistent dedication to the programme and her leadership in 2021 has overseen more than 200 junior students partnered with senior mentors. Nicole’s unflappable support of others is an inspiration to her peers.

Nicole Thornton has been vocal about Crohn’s disease since she was a child. It’s a difficult condition to talk about, but Nicole has spoken publicly to help raise awareness about the painful illness that causes inflammation of the intestines. Diagnosed with the disease at eight, she began lobbying for better access to toilets for those with a medical condition at the age of 12. Her campaign, I Can’t Wait, helps those with Crohn’s and Colitis access toilets in retail spaces. By creating a card system that entitles the bearer to use employees’ toilets, she has created a solution for urgent situations. With 200 businesses participating in I Can’t Wait, the campaign has brought confidence to those with Crohn’s and Colitis.

Owen John Pomana rallied food, sleeping bags and blankets for Auckland’s vulnerable during Covid-19 lockdowns. The former body builder and Navy officer has his own lived experience of homelessness, when life took a downturn and he became a drug addict while living in Australia for 12 years. His life has been completely transformed, now an evangelist, preacher and community organiser, he spends his days helping others. Primarily working with Humanity NZ to feed Auckland’s homeless community, Owen also works directly with homeless people on suicide prevention strategies, helping those who are often on the fringes of society.

Panapa Te Wheru Ehau, Ngati Uepohatu, Ngati Porou is a father of four from Ruatoria. He is focused on projects that increase the wellbeing of whanau and whenua in the greater Waiapu Valley and Te Tairawhiti. He is a Co-Founder of a number of socially focused entities. These include Hikurangi Enterprises – sustainable economic development, Hikurangi Bioactive – natural health products from local native species, Rua Bioscience - a pharmaceutical business producing cannabinoid-derived medicine, and Te Mahere Whakauka - a nationwide network of 40 Maori-led enterprises helping to create jobs, grow food, plant natives and create housing solutions.

Phil Gayton is the force behind volleyball in New Plymouth. Over the last five decades Phil has driven the expansion of the game in Taranaki. It is his passion. Formerly a PE teacher for 44 years, Phil’s enthusiasm for sport quickly spread to community work, and he established the well-known Sunday night Social Volleyball league, and the Taranaki Outdoor Pursuits and Education Centre – which see's thousands of students through it's courses each year. He is Chairman and President of the Spotswood Volleyball Club, Chairman of the Spotswood College Alumni Trust, and as a sportsperson has represented the Taranaki region at both local and national competitions. Since 1987 he’s been the organiser of local and national beach volleyball tournaments. Phil’s volunteer work has given thousands of people the chance to learn, play and enjoy volleyball.

Professor Michael (Mike) Plank is an internationally recognised mathematician at the University of Canterbury. Mathematical modelling has played a vital role in understanding and responding to Covid-19; in the early stages of the pandemic Mike led researchers at the university and Te Pūnaha Matatini to develop models to help estimate the scale of the health impacts for New Zealand. This work helped the government formulate a response to contact tracing, border management, testing, and outbreak control. He's become a known voice, and go-to media expert on the virus. Mike was recognised as key member of the New Zealand research team that won the Prime Minister’s Science Prize for the mathematical simulation of Covid-19 infection modelling and communication work.

Food is the business of Rahul Radhakrishnan, whose restaurants fuel the bellies of children. Since Covid-19’s impacts on the country, Rahul has established several food initiatives to help, he’s: delivered unused fresh fruit, vegetables and eggs from his restaurant to the elderly, produced about 1500 $5 lunches for essential workers, run a special fish and chip fundraiser for Marfell Community School’s special needs unit, and held Indian buffet fundraisers for the Cancer Society. In wishing to support children, Rahul has initiated the ‘Feed our Tamariki’ programme with support from the Ministry of Education, inviting 50 primary-school aged children from low decile schools in and around New Plymouth for lunch once a month. The initiative aims to increase the children's wellbeing, by giving them an experience to help build focus on the importance of education in their lives. In 2021 he received a Citizen’s award from the New Plymouth District Council.

Ranbir Kaur Saini is a recognised face in the Aotearoa community through her work towards empowerment as a registered social worker. Ranbir migrated to New Zealand in 2003 as an IT professional but switched to social work to follow her passion of providing practical support and advocate the not-so-privileged members of her community. Working at the Sikh Women’s Association, Otahuhu for over a decade, and known for her compassion and care, Ranbir provides selfless service to support women and families experiencing domestic violence, and new immigrants. She is an active member and facilitator of many projects across the city, including: Breaking the Cycle of Abuse, Positive Parenting, Auckland Diabetes and with Counties Manukau Police. Health, Safety and Wellbeing underpin her community work, and she is especially focussed on bridging the cultural gap by helping immigrants settle into a new life and culture in Aotearoa. Approachable and proactive, she assists the elderly connect to support services. Recently, she lent a helping hand during the COVID-19 lockdowns to support with food parcels and transport, but also went the extra mile by providing emotional support to the isolated individuals.

For the past five years Ray Lowe has been giving people the chance to get on the water and fish. Volunteering for charitable trust, Wish4fish, Ray has helped those with a disability have ocean experiences on Wish4fish’s purpose built, accessible catamaran. He joined the charity after seeing founder Bryce Dinneen on TV talking about his goal to create a fishing apparatus that would allow him, a tetraplegic, to fish independently. Ray took up the challenge and put hundreds of hours into developing the piece of equipment, called the Striker, which is now an integral part of the boat that has been life changing, and enhancing, for its users.

"Rebecca (Bec) Roper-Gee’s energy and passion is to keep her community fed. When the government announced the Healthy School Lunches Programme in 2020, Bec and her co-director Phillipa Weir, started Nourish Ōraka. Opening in May 2021 it employs 11 locals - mostly mothers who struggled to find work that would fit within schooling and childcare hours.
Nourish Ōraka delivers 350 lunches to the school each day, with any leftover lunches donated within the community. Bec’s first career in environmental management has had a huge impact on Nourish Ōraka, and all its meals come in reusable and compostable materials, some going back to the local community garden - a first in the region. "

Rereata Makiha (Papa Ral) is a leader who inspires, finding innovative ways to share knowledge. Renowned as a proponent for the revitalisation of Te Reo, a specialist in ancestral Māori knowledge, and a bastion for innovative Mahi tiaki Taiao - environmental work, Rereata has dedicated his life to Te Ao Māori. He was instrumental in the Te Reo Māori movement as a broadcaster and reporter from the early 1970s, and has led in the revival of whare wananga teachings and traditional practices related to the environment. Recently Rereata has been part of the revitalisation of the use of the Maramataka - Maori Lunar Calendar and has intentionally built communities across Aotearoa that are implementing environmental projects that bring korero-tuku-iho - oral traditions to the forefront of their mahi.

For 34 years Richard Craig has been a volunteer for Coastguard Kaikoura, and is its longest serving volunteer. Richard was president for 16 years, and remains Coastguard Kaikoura’s Health and Safety Officer, he has been honoured with a Coastguard Kaikoura lifetime membership. In 2006 he was integral to the work that fundraised $700,000 for the rescue vessel that the coastguard uses today. He shares his vast knowledge of the ocean with new crew members and helps to train volunteers, giving up his weekends whenever needed. Richard is also a passionate supporter of marine health, and cares deeply about the environment; he is an active member of The Kaikoura Marine Guardians, The Kaikoura Salmon Enhancement Society and Te Korowai.

An inspiring cycle instructor and teacher, Richard Hamer is also a champion for local kids. A keen mountain biker, his proactive approach has seen him building bike tracks, teaching adults and fundraising to buy bikes for those families who cannot afford them - this mahi has directly enabled hundreds of children to have a go at cycling. Richard’s love for the Eastern Bay of Plenty is well-known, and he “cycles the talk”, championing road safety in the area. He’s ordinarily found doing one of two things: riding his bike, or driving a van load of children and their bikes to a new adventure.

Robert Gordon is known for his consistent and committed volunteering in New Plymouth. After retiring he and wife Lorraine decided they wanted to volunteer together, and joined the team at Meals on Wheels. Robert drives and Lorraine drops the meals into clients, they’re an effective team, and enjoy working in tandem. Combined with their work as volunteers for the New Zealand Red Cross, their years of service and care throughout the region was recognised by the New Plymouth District Council in 2020, with the couple receiving an award for their service to the community.

Sam Gibson is an avid conservationist and communicator about wild places. A biological scientist Sam believes in order to understand our ecosystems we must collect observational data throughout seasons, investing time in research. Using matauranga Māori and western ecological thinking, Sam has developed new monitoring methodologies that use traditional mahinga kai species - natural food resources such as the abundance of Pikopiko and Tawa fruit on the forest floor and Kohia in the trees - as tools to observe deer, possums, rats and other introduced pests. He is a founder of the Eastern Whio Link project, which alongside Matawai Marae, is successfully combining matauranga Māori and western ecological practice to bring 25,000ha of public conservation lands back to a point of abundance and diversity.

Following the Westport floods, Samara File turned her home into a donation hub to support her community. Juggling family and work, it was a busy and all-consuming time. Totally new to running a donation centre she sought advice from others around the country who had experience with similar disasters, this prompted her to look for ways to collaborate with other charities and NGOs. The hub also became a listening space, where stories of recovery and loss from the community were shared. Samara saw a need, and without a thought for the cost to herself, gave 110% to help her community get on its feet again.

Sarah Page is the founder of The Kindness Collective, a grassroots charity that partners directly with businesses and other charities to do more for communities. Established in 2014, The Kindness Collective’s kaupapa is to maintain the dignity and mana of those that access its support. In the past year, with an army of volunteers, the collective has donated 459 pieces of furniture 2,000 toys, 17,300 Easter Eggs, $13,457 of toiletries, 23,000 pieces of clothing and baby items, 27,000 nappies and more than $150,000 worth of food and grocery vouchers. Vouchers are important, they offer choice, and being able to choose freely sends a powerful message of respect to those that use its services. Sarah works full time, but finds a way to do extraordinary mahi for New Zealanders.

Sian Neary is tenacious and creative in her work resourcing rangatahi. For ten years she’s been working at the Graeme Dingle Foundation and is its Auckland General Manager; responsible for 42 staff working across 36 schools, the foundation’s work supports 9000 young people in the region through outdoor learning and mentorship. On call 24 hours a day, Sian will drop whatever she's doing to help young people facing life challenges. Covid-19 put new pressure on the organisation, but Sian’s leadership meant its many programmes not only kept running, but developed fresh ways to share learning; partnering with TVNZ and the Ministry of Education, her team produced the Tamariki Talks TV series, teaching tamariki new skills and values through the Papa Kāinga home learning channel.

Simon Strombom is ensuring those that served for New Zealand are remembered with dignity. The former army major founded the New Zealand Remembrance Army (NZRA) to restore and maintain every service memorial in the country, and has assisted in setting up the Cook Islands Remembrance Army and Australian Remembrance Army. Within three years it grew from a local Porirua initiative to a New Zealand-wide movement, with more than 3,500 volunteers. To date, NZRA have restored 65,000 service graves throughout New Zealand in over 250 cemeteries and have placed 22 headstones on unmarked soldier graves. Thinking of the environment, Simon has also come up with a creative solution to reduce harm from plastic memorial poppies and working closely with community pottery groups has developed a long-lasting, sustainable option – permanent ceramic poppies. The eye-catching new poppies will be attached to memorial graves and those without service information for easy identification, and so future generations can pay their respects.

Simon Trye runs marathons head to toe in full firefighting equipment. The Kerikeri local works for the Royal New Zealand Airforce as a crash firefighter and has become a well-known runner, pacing the streets in his training gear. In 2020 he ran a half marathon to support Kids Can, carrying his full equipment and raising $16,000 from individual supporters. Simon also won a Guinness World Record for the unusual acclaim of running the fastest half marathon in a firefighter's uniform and breathing apparatus. The plan for 2021, before the Covid-19 lockdowns, was to run a full marathon in Auckland for Starship hospital; that plan has been waylaid, but he’s still training, winning local fame and respect.

Everything Sophie Weenink Smith does is about the wellbeing of people and the planet. She arranged her first beach clean-up at the age of 13, motivating 200 volunteers to join her and in doing so discovered that she could change the world. Sophie is the Under 25 representative for the Nelson Tasman Climate Forum and is a Youth Ambassador for Kohine Maia, a Sport Tasman initiative to improve girls’ mental health by being active. She has helped raise thousands of dollars for Giving Aroha to support the homeless community, and during Covid-19 lockdowns organised meal rosters to deliver food to people living on the streets. Sophie devotes every spare second of her time to create change.

It was a straight-forward decision for Sulendra Raju (Raj) to resource his community in a time of devastation. The successful building company owner leapt to action when the Papatoetoe tornado struck in June 2021. Raj asked his large team of builders to down tools on all other jobs and help those in need. Debris from backyards was quickly cleared, 100 tarpaulins were fixed to leaking roofs, and essential repairs were made to ensure people could get back into their homes. Raj’s company covered these repair costs. It was a big effort with many hands doing the mahi; Raj’s generous spirit has made a powerful impact on his community.

Swanie Nelson, Ngāpuhi, is a community innovator whose uplifting leadership style is infectious. She began the Ōtara Kai Village in 2020 with the purpose of connecting people through food.  Offering a medley of services the village grows fresh vegetables for families, cooks hot meals, and provides good, rescued food through its foodbank. It’s a vibrant, fun and social space attracting people from all economic backgrounds. A social worker for three decades, Swannie knows how to build relationships, and her flair for working with rangatahi has seen bike races and basketball challenges held at the village. Swanie’s emphasis on zero waste led her to start the Pātaka Kai food pantries, now a nationwide network of hundreds of community pantries providing free, take-as-you-need food.

Taipari Mahanga gives from his heart, he is committed to people. Kanohi ki te kanohi – face to face connection underpins Taipari’s work with his community. He wants to see people connect, korero and and take time to share kai. Using matauranga Māori in all aspects of his work, he is known as a teacher, Kapa Haka tutor, te reo speaker and mental health worker. He gives up his weekends to teach kapa haka, and his classes are open to anyone seeking to learn the art, regardless of culture or background. He is guided by Te Ao Māori to support Waitaha’s communities and is sought-after for his knowledge.

Tara Shepherd is a remarkable 19 year old. She is a proactive climate change campaigner and has been instrumental in cleaning up and creating long-term environmental solutions for the Buller Region. Tara launched a nationwide petition calling on the government to fund a full remediation of the Hector landfill that was exposed by cyclone Fehi in 2018. Her successful campaign saw one million dollars provided to the Buller District Council by the Provincial Growth Fund. An Otago University student, Tara has used her holidays to support the intermediate clean-up phase following the Westport floods and instigated local initiatives such as a free fridge degassing service with the council.

Tayla Jane Nasmith was just 12 years old when she set up her charity, Mummy’s in Need. Now 20, she is still running her charity that works alongside Police, midwives and other organisations to support whānau experiencing hardship. Tayla fundraises for and collects donated baby and children's clothes and necessities such as nappies, toys, strollers, prams and bassinets for expectant mothers of all ages. She is especially focused on providing for first-time mums and ensuring they have all they need to care for their newborn. 9000 children have been helped through her nine years of work. Tayla’s intelligent and selfless approach is supporting mothers and babies throughout Aotearoa.

Te Warihi Hetaraka’s life has been in service to his people and his culture. An esteemed tohunga whakairo, teacher and mentor within Te Tai Tokerau, he has passed his knowledge on to those around him. Te Warihi was Pou Whakahaere for more than ten years at Te Puni Kōkiri, he is a cultural leader, advisor and artist of great mana and received both the Outstanding Individual Contribution to the Arts Award in 2007 and in 2014 the Creative New Zealand Kingi Ihaka Award. Sharing matauranga Maori is his life's work and he passes it onto others he works with - especially tai tamariki and tamariki, the valuable knowledge systems of Whakairo, Raranga, Kapa Haka, Te Reo, Waka, Maramataka and Rongoa. In 2021 he was involved with revitalisation of the Wai 262 claim for Ngati Wai.

Getting things started is one thing, but maintaining momentum takes drive, and Ted Culley has that. For more than a decade he’s been a volunteer and fundraiser for the Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough, and a long-term supporter of its Kiwi Can programme. The programme focuses on developing resilience and integrity in school aged children. Ted’s seen first-hand the direct impact the programme has had on children’s lives, and its positive results have led to nearly 60% of schools in Marlborough now participating. Ted is so passionate about Kiwi Can that he’s jumped out of a plane, twice, raising $60,000 for the cause.

Supporting families with autistic children is Theresa Tongi’s passion. When her second son was diagnosed with autism the former Policewoman left her career of 12 years to support her four children, two of which have autism. She knew it was going to be all-consuming and she wanted her family to thrive, but she wanted others to too. With husband Pat they set-up AutismConnex, an autism support network for families in Taranaki. In the five years they’ve been running they’ve connected with and supported 80 families. In addition to this AutismConnex has fundraised $50,000 to build Theresa’s dream facility - a purpose-built space that caters to the physical needs of autistic children.

Tom Manley has given more than 30 years of his love and dedication to Hoani Waititi Marae. The father and koro has supported the marae and the kura in numerous roles - he has been the kaitiaki whenua, the coach and manager of the netball, rugby and league teams, and everyone knows he’s the first to set-up the equipment for sports and kapa haka practices, while also being the last to lock-up. Reliable and caring, his calm manner makes those around him feel confident. He’s also become Hoani Waititi Marae’s unofficial babysitter, having cared for many of the tamariki that have gone through the kura. Whatever is needed, Tom, “the mahi man” gets it done.

Tony Collins is a keen protector of the environment.  A retired plumber, Tony has been a volunteer for many years in Taranaki, supporting the Rotokare Scenic Reserve by trapping and clearing rats. Travelling around the region to check 14 traps each week, he’s been rewarded for his efforts by seeing a steep increase in birdlife in the area and the proliferation of more native plants and flowers. Donating his skills, Tony gives as much of himself as he can to increase New Zealand’s biodiversity. He is also the Chair for Forest and Bird North Taranaki and he and wife Anne were recently recognised by the New Plymouth district council, with an award acknowledging their volunteer work together as a couple.

Tony Gaeta is the founder of the World Marudao Karate Organisation. He has taught karate to hundreds of tamariki in Aotearoa, focusing on the martial art’s values of perseverance and respect. A not-for-profit organisation, Tony offers self defense classes, and provides a comfortable environment for women, recently holding lessons for Muslim women and the Poneke Women’s Rugby Club. During lockdown Tony took his classes online seven days a week to ensure his community kept learning and stayed focused. A tireless fundraiser, Tony has helped to raise and donate over $145,000 for Wellington Children’s Hospital’s many services and units; known for his community spirit he was busy running errands for those that were unable during Covid-19’s restrictions.

Trish Grant’s mahi is to speak up for those who are intellectually disabled. Part of IHC’s advocacy team she is a dependable and selfless advocate, who helps smooth out life’s difficult edges for those with a need. Working with health and housing providers, she strives to support her clients to be equipped for all they want to achieve; she’s specially focused on ensuring people with a disability are able to join their community and live with independence, Trish’s work has been essential for so many young people wanting to find their first home. Knowing that it's not always easy, Trish prepares her clients for the reality and challenges they may face with support and honesty.

Wendy Morrison is a self professed workaholic, and can’t stop finding new ways to help. The well-known local figure works full time as the General Manager for Mediaworks Wairarapa and outside of this role her every moment is filled. She is a marriage celebrant, a mentor to teen parents, a supporter of the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, fundraises for the Wairarapa Cancer Society, Wellington Free Ambulance and recently, Plunket Wairarapa, is the emcee for numerous charitable events and organises everything from firewood to food donations to support her community. She has been the Chair of the Wairarapa Chamber of Commerce and was the Chairwoman for the Relay for Life for the Wairarapa Cancer Society.

Wendy is a data-savvy entrepreneur and the founder of Perfectly Imperfect. The charitable trust stands behind the motto, “ugly is delicious”. She and her large team of volunteers help rescue post-harvest, fresh food that does not meet market standards. After discovering 45% of fresh fruit and vegetables are left behind on the farm because they look abnormal, Wendy set about finding a way to get this nutritious food to people's plates. Doing the hard labour themselves, Wendy’s team glean produce from the fields of cooperating growers; it is then redistributed to foodbanks and directly sold to consumers through a low-cost subscription model. By building partnerships with growers, Perfectly Imperfect not only prevents waste, but has created new markets for locally grown produce.

"Xavier Mika is an extraordinary young person, he’s been volunteering at Love Soup since he was 11. Love Soup is a food rescue programme helping supply people with nourishing meals.
For the past five years Xavier’s not only developed his skills for making kai, but also for looking out for others. After the first Covid-19 lockdowns he was aware that lots of families were without work and money, so when he got back to school at Whangaparaoa College, he started a free lunch programme for students after an encounter with a fellow student. Teaming up with Julie King from Love Soup, he is now making 350 lunches a week for and with his peers from rescued or donated food, and the lunches are offered freely and without question. Xavier's programme has since been picked up by two schools and the Orewa community centre has begun to use the service. "