SF-LOCALH Archives - Kiwibank New Zealander of The Year Awards

Kiwibank

New Zealander of the Year

Te Pou Whakarae o Aotearoa

2025

Finalists

Brian Tamaki

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Canterbury Waitaha

Over the past year, Eleanor Dunn, a medical student, researcher and steadfast community leader, has been a transformative force within Aotearoa, operating across education, health, crisis response and STEM equity. Her pivotal role with the Student Volunteer Army during the 2025 Nelson-Tasman flood recovery saw her remotely coordinating efforts, expediting response times and ensuring no whānau was left unsupported. Additionally, Eleanor addressed a gap in STEM education, launching Eleanor’s Science Parties in Ōtautahi Christchurch, offering hands-on science shows for children and promoting inclusivity through her “Science for All” model.

Beyond her community work, Eleanor continues to excel acadically at the University of Otago, holding multiple scholarships and awards. Her commitment to mentoring and tutoring younger medical students and rural, Māori, and underrepresented students in health exemplifies her dedication to inclusivity and equity. Whether it’s in disaster response, STEM education, or medical research, Eleanor’s work continues to leave a lasting, positive impact on Aotearoa.

Winston Peters

Northland Te Tai Tokerau

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

At only 31 years old, Michelle Rahurahu has already made a significant impact in the New Zealand literary sphere, earning the esteemed Ockham Book Award for her debut novel, “Poorhara” in 2025. Beyond her success as an author, Michelle has been instrumental in uplifting aspiring Māori writers through workshops in prisons, community events, and online platforms. She also serves the Stopping Violence programme in Wellington, tirelessly dedicating herself to the cause of creating a safer community.

Michelle’s work extends beyond these realms, engaging with the deaf community through her proficiency in NZ sign language. Her approachable nature and unwavering commitment to helping others make her a beacon of inspiration for young Māori and others who are seeking guidance in their lives. Michelle continues to offer pathways for these individuals to choose their destinies, reinforcing her legacy as a true community leader and role model.

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Jonathon Davies, a naturally talented and deeply committed professional, has demonstrated exceptional skill in his role as a Communications and Marketing Volunteer for Samaritans Wellington, and now as their Fundraising & Marketing Officer. In his time with the organisation, Jonathon has breathed fresh life into their communications, crafting thoughtful, human-centred content that has significantly improved their connection with the community, particularly with the 60+ helpline callers. He has also managed the organisation’s digital presence, grown awareness of their services, and produced captivating photography and videography for their 2023 Parliament function.

In his current role, Jonathon continues to make a profound impact, building donor relationships with empathy and professionalism, and designing campaigns that resonate deeply with their supporters. His belief in the transformative power of effective fundraising and storytelling guides his work, and his natural problem-solving abilities continue to make him an indispensable asset to the team. Jonathon’s efforts are not only elevating the organisation’s outreach but also amplifying its mission to transform the lives of those they serve.

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Waikato

Interlock NZ Trust, a transformative community organisation, emerged during the 2020 lockdown to extend its compassionate arms to people living with disabilities in the Waipa/Waikato area. Unfunded by government, Interlock relies solely on the generous hearts of local community bodies such as Lions, Rotary, Grassroots, Spectrum, and the Give it Back Trust. Fuelled by a dedicated volunteer force, the trust has been instrumental in creating vibrant spaces and recreational avenues such as cafes, crafting groups, and community outings.

Beginning in a Red Cross hall in Cambridge with only five participants, Interlock has now expanded to welcome around 80 participants several days a week. The organisation’s impact transcends the physical spaces it creates, its true power lies in the ethos of acceptance, individuality, and empowerment it fosters. Interlock remains committed to its core mission of being a nexus where life, disability, and community connect, thereby enhancing the personal mana of each individual under its care.

Deepak Kumar

Canterbury Waitaha

Deepak Kumar, a culinary innovator and public health advocate, has been empowering children through cooking since his graduation in hospitality. After completing his training in New Zealand, following a spell in Italy that sparked his passion for authentic cuisine, Deepak became the head pizzaiolo and restaurant manager at Rotorua’s Capizzi Pizzeria at only 25. Recognised by MasterChef judge Ray McVinnie, Deepak has since been using his culinary prowess to tackle child obesity concerns – organising hundreds of cooking demonstrations in schools and running free classes, including the inaugural Junior MasterChef Rotorua, which later expanded to Junior Chef of Aotearoa, the only kids cooking show in the country.

Subsequently, Deepak co-authored a cookbook with competition finalists and launched a petition to Parliament for healthier advertising standards. His most recent initiative involved donating 1,000 meals to Rotorua’s Whakaora community, continuing a legacy of generosity influenced by his late father. Through his mentorship and community-building, Deepak Kumar inspires a healthier future for young Kiwis.

Picton Community

Marlborough Te Tauihu-o-te-waka

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Sasa Tofilau, rising from humble beginnings in South Auckland, has become a beacon of hope and service in his community. Raised by a hardworking single mother, he has used his experiences of poverty and struggle as fuel for his passion and dedication. Sasa has enjoyed a successful career, notably helping first-time homebuyers and spearheading projects for sustainable property ownership in South Auckland. In the past year, he has emerged as Harcourts’ top individual agent in Mangere, further demonstrating his commitment to his community.

Formerly a professional rugby player in the UK and for Hawke’s Bay ITM, Sasa has continued to serve his community beyond his profession. He actively contributes to the development of the younger generation, especially within the rugby sphere. As a loving father, devout man, and unwavering friend, Sasa’s impact extends far beyond his professional successes, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those he touches.

Libby Hakaraia

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Libby Hakaraia, a Māori storyteller, writer, director, and producer, has been a vanguard in the field of arts and culture in Aotearoa for over two decades. The founder and director of Māoriland Film Festival, the world’s largest Indigenous film festival, Libby has transformed the way Māori stories are told, seen, and valued. She also established the Māoriland Hub, a nationally recognised venue for artist residencies, youth programmes, and Toi Matarau, a contemporary Māori art gallery. Her distinguished career began in broadcasting, interviewing global personalities like Nelson Mandela and local heroes, with a focus on telling the stories of Aotearoa.

Libby continues her remarkable work by developing a range of screen projects, deeply rooted in Aotearoa and its culture. Her global vision has fostered international partnerships that allow Māori and Aotearoa-based storytellers to reach worldwide audiences. Libby’s leadership goes beyond her awards and accolades, including her appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2022. Her humble yet powerful approach to community wellbeing and cultural preservation creates meaningful opportunities and lasting impact on the cultural and creative landscape of Aotearoa.

Dot Lamb

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Dot Lamb, at the age of 86, remains a vibrant and steadfast volunteer at Communicare, a charity running 15 Friendship Centres across Auckland for seniors and individuals with diverse needs. For more than half a century, Dot has been a beacon of dedication, having served Communicare for 54 years in various capacities. Beginning her journey as a volunteer driver in 1970, she has since led a Friendship Centre, served as honorary President twice, and was honoured as a life member in 2006. Her resilience and energy are undimmed despite recent personal challenges, including the loss of her husband and a move into a retirement village.

Dot’s contribution goes beyond her official roles. She is a mentor and role model to other volunteers, drawing on her nursing background and strong will to advocate for Communicare’s cause. Not one to seek recognition, Dot’s life is a testament to her unwavering commitment and passion for volunteerism, making her a deserving nominee for the Kiwibank Senior New Zealander of the Year.

Penelope Barton

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Navigating the uncharted waters of education during a global pandemic, Penelope Barton boldly spearheaded the growth of Crimson Global Academy (CGA) as co-founder and CEO, New Zealand’s first registered online high school. With her steadfast commitment to equity, excellence, and innovation, Penelope transformed the education landscape, not just domestically but globally. Today, Penelope serves as co-founder and CEO of Crimson Academies Group including CGA and the newly launched Aotearoa Infinite Academy, New Zealand’s first tuition fee-free online charter school, and leads Crimson AGE School and Mt Hobson Academy. Under her vision, this ecosystem is multi-mode, multi-curriculum, and multi-ability, meeting students where they are and redefining the concept of school.

CGA has grown exponentially, delivering high-quality, borderless education to over 2,500 students across 70 countries, supported by a substantial faculty based in Aotearoa. Penelope’s innovation lies in pedagogical transformation powered by technology. She spends significant time building the software, processes, and systems that integrate real-time learning analytics, AI-supported personalised pathways, and elevated virtual classroom experiences while maintaining a rich pastoral care system at the core. Her unwavering belief that every learner, regardless of postcode or background, deserves world-class education has positioned these schools as powerful incubators of Kiwi educational talent.

Naomi Shaw

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

International Te ao

Waikato

Prison Care Ministries (PCM), based in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, has been an unwavering pillar of support for tāne transitioning from incarceration to society since 2004. Operating seven houses across the region, PCM provides accommodation, reintegration services, and a sense of belonging to some of Aotearoa’s most marginalised individuals. Their approach, which blends compassion, structure, wraparound services, and spiritual grounding, has positively influenced the lives of over 800 men, proving that genuine relationships and steadfast support can inspire transformation.

Despite setbacks and challenges, including housing shortages and changes in disability payments, PCM’s commitment to their kaupapa remains undeterred. Their success rate is testament to their impact, with 82-84% of their residents avoiding reoffending or returning to prison. Through their work, PCM is not just housing people, but healing them, restoring their mana, and helping to build a future where they can contribute positively to society.

Stewart Bull

Southland Murihiku

Stewart Bull, a distinguished environmental leader, has devoted his life to the conservation and preservation of Aotearoa’s natural beauty. As a founding member of the Fiordland Marine Guardians since 1995, he has been instrumental in protecting Fiordland’s marine ecosystems through collaborative governance and community engagement. Furthermore, his role as Chairman of the Rakiura Tītī Committee and the Rakiura Tītī Islands Administering Body speaks volumes of his leadership abilities and dedication.

In recent years, Stewart’s impact has been felt on a broader scale. He has successfully eradicated predators from 70% of the Tītī Islands, leading to the resurgence of native species such as tīeke (saddleback), tūī, and bellbird. Additionally, his staunch opposition to the intensification of dairy farming in Southland underscores his commitment to maintaining ecological balance and protecting water quality. In 2018, Stewart’s contributions were nationally recognised when he received the Queen’s Service Medal for services to Māori and the environment.

Ganga Sudhan

Waikato

Ganga Sudhan, an embodiment of community-driven transformation, has been a beacon of hope and learning in the Fairfield community and beyond, through his delivery of the Transformative Digital Literacy Programme (TDLP) at Te Whare o Te Ata. Over the past 12 months, despite challenges of uncertain funding and learner readiness, Ganga’s unwavering commitment has enabled disadvantaged individuals, including seniors, former offenders, solo parents, and Māori and migrant families, to re-engage with learning and regain their self-worth.

Ganga’s work extends beyond the classroom, fostering self-belief and a sense of dignity that spills over into families and neighbourhoods. His inclusive, person-first approach, patience, humility, and quiet strength have made him a trusted figure across multiple community centres in the Waikato region, transforming not just individuals, but also reshaping the way communities perceive and value learning. His legacy is both immediate and intergenerational, forever imprinted on the lives of the individuals he has empowered.

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Manawatū-Whanganui

Kereama Allen is a powerful force in New Zealand’s youth activism scene, particularly noted for his influential leadership within the School Strike for Climate movement over the past year. Hailing from a strong background in community engagement, Kereama’s unwavering commitment to environmental causes is a testament to his dedication to his mahi (work). His passion and tireless exertion echo in every aspect of his activism, demonstrating a deep-rooted care for the community and the planet alike.

With an ongoing drive to make a significant difference, Kereama’s impact extends far beyond his immediate role. His dedication, demonstrated through consistent efforts, inspires fellow young New Zealanders to raise their voices and take action on issues that profoundly affect their future. Kereama continues to champion climate justice, leaving an indelible mark on his community and paving the way for the next generation of activists.

Kereama Allen

Manawatū-Whanganui

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Dylan Chand, the founder and Director of the Youth Climate Collective (YCC), is a visionary youth climate leader in Aotearoa. His journey into climate action began at Avondale College, where he co-led the Environmental Club and organised tree planting and clean-up initiatives. His grassroots work evolved into systemic engagement, leading him to his role as a Youth Climate Catalyst with Auckland Council, culminating in his representation of Tāmaki Makaurau at the C40 World Mayors Summit in Buenos Aires in 2022. Utilising the momentum from this experience, Dylan launched YCC, a rangatahi-led movement focused on empowering young people to take meaningful action on climate change.

Under Dylan’s leadership, YCC has grown into an impactful organisation, offering flagship programmes such as The Climate Action Conference and the Regional Activators Programme, which provides micro-grants to fund youth-led climate projects. Dylan’s work extends beyond YCC, as he continues to be an active voice in civic spaces, contributes to climate strategy consultations, and has received recognition through the prestigious Blues Awards for Service and Leadership at the University of Auckland.

Astin

Select Their Region

Canterbury Waitaha

Guoyuan Pan, affectionately known as Penny, is a beacon of resilience, leadership, and community service within Christchurch’s social services community. Born in mainland China, Penny faced the challenges of a new migrant in New Zealand with fortitude, leveraging her own experiences to support others on similar journeys. Her ongoing commitment to assisting migrant and refugee women has seen her serve in numerous roles within the Shakti Christchurch organisation, ranging from volunteer and caseworker to accountant and refuge coordinator.

Penny’s enduring legacy lies in her ability to forge strong relationships with key government agencies and local support services, leading to transformative results for the women she works with. Her tireless advocacy and quiet courage have been particularly evident in times of crisis, such as the Christchurch earthquakes and the 2019 mosque tragedy. Today, many women who have benefited from Penny’s unwavering support occupy roles as counsellors, support workers, and leaders, reflecting the ripple effect of her impactful work.

Cecilia Lin

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Cecilia Lin, a Year 13 student at Kristin School, is a dynamic young leader who combines academic excellence with a profound commitment to social justice and public health advocacy. In her roles as Head Girl, Chairperson of the Upper Harbour Youth Council, and Youth MP for the Minister of Police, she has demonstrated impressive maturity, diplomacy, and civic awareness. Cecilia’s powerful advocacy for mandatory drug education in the 10th Youth Parliament resonated for its clarity, compassion, and urgency.

Cecilia is the founder of the Pacific Sister Project, an initiative connecting New Zealand and Fiji to combat the harm of drug abuse and empower young women. Partnering with the Fiji Red Cross, she provides life-saving health kits to girls in high-risk communities. Known for her integrity and humility, Cecilia also mentors younger students, fostering a culture of collective responsibility and sustainable impact. Her broader commitment to civic engagement is evident in her involvement in international ethics competitions, Future Problem Solving nationals, and Model United Nations conferences.

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Aayush Sharma is an exceptional young leader who has contributed significantly to New Zealand’s youth community. As the host of the New Zealand Punjabi Multimedia Competition on Radio Spice, he has been a vital voice for cultural dialogue. Moreover, his creation of ‘Let Me Speak’, an organisation championing youth involvement in politics, has been a game-changer. Collaborating with influential figures like local MPs, Aayush has tirelessly worked to establish pathways for a brighter future for New Zealand’s youth.

Aayush’s dedication extends beyond the political sphere, merging seamlessly with his passion for music. As an aspiring producer, he has nurtured local talent and collaborated with international artists. His influence in the music industry has been palpable, with his initiative SoundGen New Zealand and his role as a music mentor under Youth Arts New Zealand. These endeavours underscore Aayush’s unwavering commitment to fostering youth leadership and creativity in Aotearoa.

Nobia Fauwad

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Nobia Fauwad, the driving force behind the Whau Ethnic Collective, has cemented herself as an integral part of the New Zealand community landscape over the past 12 months. Through her role as Coordinator, Nobia has tirelessly advocated for the needs and rights of diverse community members, ensuring their voices not only are heard, but also valued. Her dedication to promoting cultural understanding, social cohesion, and empowerment has stirred a noticeable shift towards unity and respect in her community.

Beyond her recent achievements, Nobia’s legacy lies in her ability to inspire others with her passion, empathy, and unwavering commitment to service. Her work has fostered a sense of belonging and connection among community members, transforming the Whau Ethnic Collective into a vibrant hub of community building. Nobia’s leadership continues to inspire others to make a positive impact, establishing a ripple effect that will continue to enhance New Zealand’s social fabric for generations to come.

Care for Families NZ

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

A beacon of hope for families in crisis, Chercara and her charity, Care for Families NZ, have been unwavering in their mission to support New Zealand families. Over the past year, they have offered immeasurable aid to families with premature or ill babies hospitalised across the nation. Manifested through the creation of aroha packs, these care packages are specifically designed to provide comfort during challenging times. Chercara’s dedication stems from a deep-seated empathy, understanding the emotional toll such circumstances can take on families.

Chercara’s impact extends beyond immediate family support, demonstrating her commitment to the broader community. Care for Families NZ also provides care packages for individuals diagnosed with cancer, offering tangible support in a time of hardship. Through the charity’s efforts, they have created a network of compassion and solidarity, fostering a spirit of resilience and strength within New Zealand’s healthcare system.

Millard

Taranaki

Bay of Plenty Te Moana a Toi

Billy MacFarlane is a transformational leader at the helm of the Tikanga Aroro Charitable Trust, a beacon of hope and systemic change for Māori across Aotearoa. Over the past year, Billy has pioneered kaupapa Māori reintegration models, challenging traditional outlooks on rehabilitation, justice, and cultural healing. His focus on supporting both tāne and wāhine returning from incarceration has led to remarkable programme expansions, partnerships with Corrections and community providers, and the establishment of marae-based wānanga underpinned by tikanga Māori.

Billy’s impact extends beyond the immediate beneficiaries. His programmes, Pūwhakamua and Angitu, are founded on traditional Māori frameworks integrated with cognitive behavioural and restorative justice models, offering a cultural approach to cognitive and cultural development. With this innovative approach, Billy is not just restoring hope and belief in individuals but strengthening communities, enriching tamariki’s lives, and contributing to a healthier Aotearoa, transforming the narrative on harm, healing, and rehabilitation.

Graham Henry

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Canterbury Waitaha

James Hayes, founder of Virtual Medical Coaching, is transforming global healthcare education and patient safety through world-first imaging technology. His team has developed an advanced CT scanning simulator that trains radiographers and radiologists safely and effectively – improving accuracy, confidence, and access for students, particularly those in regional and Māori communities.

In 2024, James made a breakthrough discovery: a method that allows MRI sequences to generate CT-quality images without radiation exposure. This innovation could protect thousands of patients, especially children with cancer, from the long-term risks of repeated scans. Rather than commercialising the technology, James pledged to share it freely with hospitals worldwide – a profound act of generosity that puts people before profit. His leadership blends technical brilliance with deep compassion, proving that innovation can serve humanity and position Aotearoa New Zealand at the forefront of ethical, life-saving medical technology.

Norman Lind

Manawatū-Whanganui

Norman Lind, a revered retired teacher from Feilding High School and former builder, has become a cherished figure throughout Feilding and the wider Manawatu community. In the past year, Norman’s selfless acts of giving have been unyielding. Alongside his wife, Shirley, Norman provides weekly produce to needy families at no cost and extends his services as a funeral celebrant and Justice of the Peace. His legacy as a rugby player and the founder of a well-attended children’s Stamp Club at the Coach House Museum has significantly influenced many lives.

Norman’s broader impact is undeniable, with his selfless actions fostering a sense of unity within his community. His work in the church, where he is a valued part of the eldership team, and the Rally programme in Feilding, are testaments to his dedication to community service. Norman’s tireless efforts continue to touch countless lives, crafting a legacy driven by generosity, mentorship, and compassion.

Sarah Page

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Sarah Page is a staunch advocate for people living in poverty. As the founder of the Kindness Collective, she has transformed a small grassroots initiative into a far-reaching, nationwide movement, benefitting over 100,000 Kiwis annually. Her tireless advocacy, consistent efforts, and deep compassion for those facing hardship have made her a true force for good, consistently leading with empathy and creating a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves.

Under her leadership, the Kindness Collective extends a helping hand to thousands of families across Aotearoa, providing food, essentials, warmth, practical support and joy at Christmas. Ensuring those facing adversity have access to the same opportunities and dignity as anyone else, she has affected lasting change for hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders. Her vision, drive, and heart continue to inspire and motivate, creating a legacy that reaches far beyond her immediate sphere of influence.

Sarah Page

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Otago Ōtākou

QT Community Cats, a volunteer-driven initiative, is a beacon of hope for the stray and community cats of Queenstown and its surrounds. With unyielding compassion, determination, and grit, they have made a profound impact over the past year by providing essential care, feeding, desexing, and rehoming services for cats and kittens otherwise left to their fate. Their commitment extends to currently caring for over 30 cats, offering food, medical care, and secure shelter, all maintained through generous donations and the unremitting efforts of their volunteers.

The impact of QT Community Cats goes beyond animal rescue, fostering a kinder, more connected community. Their pragmatic approach to controlling the stray population through trap-neuter-return (TNR) strategies, coupled with their extensive network of fosters, ensures every adoptable cat has the highest chance of a joyful life. Through their work, they’ve not only transformed the lives of countless felines but also united people in shared responsibility and compassion.

Kiwibank

New Zealander of the Year

Te Pou Whakarae o Aotearoa

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Brian Tamaki

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Brian Tamaki

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Brian Tamaki

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Brian Tamaki

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Eleanor Dunn

Canterbury Waitaha

Winston Peters

Northland Te Tai Tokerau

Michelle Rahurahu

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Jonathon Davies

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Jonathon Davies

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Graham Henry

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Interlock NZ Trust

Waikato

Deepak Kumar

Canterbury Waitaha

Picton Community

Marlborough Te Tauihu-o-te-waka

Sasa Tofilau

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Libby Hakaraia

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Dot Lamb

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Penelope Barton

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Naomi Shaw

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Murray Cotter

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Jacinda Ardern

International Te ao

Prison Care Ministries

Waikato

Stewart Bull

Southland Murihiku

Ganga Sudhan

Waikato

Aayush sharma

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Aayush

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Kereama Allen

Manawatū-Whanganui

Kereama Allen

Manawatū-Whanganui

Kereama Allen

Manawatū-Whanganui

Dylan Chand

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Astin

Select Their Region

Guojuan Pan (Penny)

Canterbury Waitaha

Cecilia Lin

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

aayush sharma

Thanks to our generous sponsor whānau
that make the awards possible