After discussions with Sir Rod Drury, the New Zealander of the Year Awards Office confirms that as the recipient of the 2026 New Zealander of the Year Award he has returned the Award.

The New Zealander of the Year Awards exist to celebrate those whose contributions strengthen Aotearoa New Zealand and reflect the values of leadership, service, integrity and respect for others.

Any matter that undermines or calls into question those values is not consistent with the standards and expectations we hold for the Awards programme.

The 2026 New Zealander of the Year Award will not be re-awarded.