2026 Archives - Page 3 of 3 - Kiwibank New Zealander of The Year Awards

Meet your 2026 Finalists

Mitre 10

New Zealand Community of the Year

Mitre 10

New Zealand Community of the Year

Ngā Pou Whirinaki o te Tau

2026

Finalists

Craig Piggott

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Dame Claudia Orange

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Dame Julie Chapman

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Dr Jeremy Tātere MacLeod

Hawke′s Bay Te Matau-a-Māui

Harlem-Cruz Ihaia

Hawke′s Bay Te Matau-a-Māui

Hōhepa Hawke's Bay

Hawke′s Bay Te Matau-a-Māui

James Hayes

Canterbury Waitaha

Jonathan Ring and Leatham Landon-Lane

Canterbury Waitaha

Léon Bristow

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Lucy Blakiston

Marlborough Te Tauihu-o-te-waka

Māhera Maihi

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

03 sessions

Canterbury Waitaha

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

For over 60 years, 95bFM has served as a dynamic force in Aotearoa’s music and media landscape, nurturing countless talents and fostering a vibrant creative community. Originating from the Auckland University campus, this enduring institution recently embarked on a transformative journey with its move to Karangahape Road. This relocation has not only expanded its reach but reaffirmed its commitment to supporting new artists, providing a platform for diverse voices, and integrating te reo Māori into its programming. The dedicated team and volunteers at 95bFM continue to cultivate a third space where creativity flourishes, and lifelong connections are forged.

Beyond its impact on the music industry, 95bFM champions a broad spectrum of social issues, including human rights, mental health advocacy, and political engagement, creating a space for rangatahi and queer communities. By consistently shining the spotlight on others, 95bFM embodies the spirit of collaboration and inclusivity, reinforcing its role as a cherished pillar of Aotearoa’s cultural identity.

Aaran Hooper

Tasman Te Tai-o-Aorere

Aaran Hooper, a quiet hero who leads change in his community, embodying the spirit of manaaki. With a steadfast commitment to safety and compliance, Aaran’s professional work supports small businesses and community organisations, ensuring they meet essential standards and keep people safe. Over the past year, his generosity has extended beyond his professional sphere, providing invaluable support to the Cancer Society with free annual servicing, and waiving fees for businesses experiencing financial hardships.

Aaran’s impact transcends his immediate community. His selfless actions, often unseen, include providing food for families in need and standing by those facing personal struggles. A steadfast rock in tumultuous times, Aaran’s unwavering support for his whānau and friends has demonstrated his resilience and compassion, fostering community strength and unity.

Aayush Sharma

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Aayush Sharma stands as a dynamic force in youth advocacy, transforming civic engagement for rangatahi across Aotearoa. Over the past two years, he has founded and led Let Me Speak (LMS), a national organisation bridging the gap between young people and public institutions. Under his leadership, LMS has flourished, securing partnerships with local government and community organisations, and engaging hundreds of young people in meaningful discourse. Aayush’s ability to turn passion into action is evident in his engagement with policymakers, where he has presented to the Education and Workforce Select Committee and consulted with the Department of Internal Affairs on social media policy for under-16s.

Beyond his organisational leadership, Aayush’s impact is felt widely through his roles at Ormiston Senior College and his outstanding academic achievements. He has volunteered over 700 hours with the Student Volunteer Army and holds leadership roles in multiple clubs. Aayush’s dedication to service and education exemplifies the power of youth to lead change, challenge perceptions, and shape the future of Aotearoa.

Abbie Muir

Canterbury Waitaha

Otago Ōtākou

Abby Golden is reshaping the landscape of youth leadership in Aotearoa through her pioneering work with Te Ara Tīrama Charitable Trust. Recognising that leadership often favours the outspoken, Abby co-founded this youth impact network to empower rangatahi who might not see themselves in traditional roles. By engaging in co-design with young people, the Trust offers mentorship, bite-sized learning, and practical tools to help turn their ideas into tangible community impacts. Abby’s approach is inclusive and innovative, nurturing a sense of belonging and purpose among young New Zealanders who are eager to make a difference.

Beyond her transformational work with youth, Abby is a dedicated ICU nurse, providing compassionate care to critically ill patients and their whānau. Her dual roles exemplify leadership infused with empathy and resilience, whether she’s supporting a family through a medical crisis or unlocking potential in the next generation. Abby’s commitment to community and humanity makes her a true champion of collective strength.

Adele Bryson

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Adele Bryson, a catalyst for connection, has utilized her talents to bring people together in the wake of COVID. Founding Chair of the New Zealand Jigsaw Puzzle Association (NZJPA), Operations Manager at the Takutai Charitable Trust’s Log Cabin community facility, and creator of a free Community Puzzle Library, Adele has committed countless volunteer hours to creating environments of inclusivity and camaraderie. Her ability to transform solitary activities into social interactions has cultivated a nationwide community through the NZJPA, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging among its members.

Adele’s leadership style, grounded in respect and encouragement, has empowered others to take ownership and contribute their unique skills. As Operations Manager, she ensures the smooth operation of a vital community space, providing local groups a welcoming and affordable meeting place. Meanwhile, her Community Puzzle Library has become a hub of conversation and connection, extending the joy of puzzling to all.

Aditi Tiwari

Wellington Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Aditi Tiwari is a transformative leader whose dedication to empowering rangatahi in Porirua and Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington has reshaped the landscape of youth engagement. Over the past year, her role as Vice-curator of the Wellington Global Shapers Hub and as a Central Area Councillor for New Zealand Red Cross has placed her at the forefront of community development. Aditi’s crowning achievement came with the Youth Empower Summit 2026, where she orchestrated an event that united over 300 young people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a platform for dialogue and representation. Her unwavering commitment to service is evident as she balances her roles with her academic pursuits and continues to make a lasting impact in various community forums.

Aditi’s influence extends beyond titles, as she nurtures the next generation of leaders with a focus on inclusion and representation. Her personal journey as a migrant from India informs her work, ensuring that young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds find a sense of belonging and opportunity in Aotearoa. Through her involvement with Voice of Aroha and local governance, Aditi brings underrepresented voices to the decision-making table. Her leadership style, marked by trust and encouragement, not only empowers individuals but also fosters a collective movement towards an inclusive future. Aditi Tiwari’s work exemplifies the power of service-driven leadership in creating meaningful change.

Alan Kan

Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau

Alan Kan is a pioneering force in Aotearoa New Zealand’s technology landscape, championing responsible AI and nurturing future tech leaders. Over the past year, as Co-founder of Sovata AI, Alan has been at the forefront of helping organisations adopt AI in ways that prioritise security and privacy. His co-founding of Mission Ready HQ has transformed the lives of over 1,200 graduates, providing them with the skills and real-world experience to launch successful careers in technology. Alan’s commitment to innovation is also evident in his work with the AI Forum New Zealand, where he led the AI for Good Hackathon, fostering solutions for pressing societal issues.

Beyond his ventures, Alan’s focus on community impact is unwavering. By bridging the gap between education and industry, he has not only addressed Aotearoa’s technology skills shortage but also created diverse opportunities for future generations. His leadership continues to shape a more inclusive and ethical future for New Zealand’s tech sector.

Alan Rowe

Waikato

Alan Rowe is an enduring pillar of the Onewhero community, dedicating decades to education, emergency services, and community restoration. As a former Deputy Principal at Onewhero Area School, Alan continues to inspire future generations as a relief teacher and Exam Centre Manager, ensuring a supportive environment for NCEA exams. His steadfast commitment is evident in over 30 years of guiding students through the Duke of Edinburgh Award, fostering confidence and resilience in hundreds of young people. Beyond education, Alan leads the restoration of the original Onewhero School building, envisioning it as a future community gathering space.

In addition to his educational contributions, Alan serves as the South Auckland District Chaplain for Hato Hone St John and actively supports the Pukekohe Area Committee as Treasurer. With over 40 years in the Onewhero Volunteer Fire Brigade, he has held numerous roles, including Chief Fire Officer and Station Officer. Alan’s unwavering dedication extends to his role as a priest at St Stephen’s parish, where he offers comfort and support to the community during challenging times.

Alec Haws

Canterbury Waitaha

Alec Haws, President of the University of Canterbury Neurodivergent Society (NDSoc), exemplifies transformative leadership in advocacy for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities. Despite living with ADHD, epilepsy, and other health challenges, Alec’s dynamic leadership has shone brightly over the past year. Under his guidance, NDSoc partnered with the UC student magazine, Canta, to produce a groundbreaking edition on disability awareness, with Alec contributing an insightful editorial. His efforts have also extended to collaborating with various university clubs to enhance inclusivity, such as introducing accommodations for neurodivergent attendees at events like the Rainbow Ball.

Beyond his organisational achievements, Alec fosters a culture of support and understanding. His approachable nature and thoughtful gestures, like sharing fidget toys to ease others’ anxieties, create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. Alec’s ongoing work challenges societal norms and reshapes conversations around neurodiversity, paving the way for a more empathetic and inclusive Aotearoa.

Recognising communities achieving powerful collective impact. Through connection, resilience and shared purpose, these groups are proving that change is possible when people come together to do good.

Nominees of this Award must:

Be more than one person (duo, group, community or organisation) who has made – or is making – a significant contribution to their region, town, suburb, community (be it geographical, or interest specific), iwi, or local group. In any sector including (but not limited to) business, leadership, culture, voluntary work, disaster relief, environmental work, health, education, sporting clubs, or working with the disadvantaged.
Have had significant impact over the last 12 months.
Be role models for New Zealanders and highlight collective action toward positive change.
Meet Awards Conditions of Entry.

Judging Criteria

Judges will review each nominee using the following criteria:

10 points: OVERALL INSPIRATION:
Describe the community, group or duo you are nominating and the work that they do (particularly over the past 12-months) that has inspired you to nominate them as the New Zealand Community of the Year Ngā Pou Whirinaki o te Tau.
10 points: PURPOSE:
Who benefits from the work of this community, and how?
10 points: COMMITMENT:
Describe the commitment of time, risks, and challenges overcome to create an impact to this point (this may still be ongoing).
10 points: PROVEN IMPACT:
How has this community clearly demonstrated a positive impact in their area of influence? How has this been measured?
10 points: LONG-TERM IMPACT:
If applicable, how would the nominee/s enhance, grow, and/or adapt their approach in the future to best meet the changing needs of their community? How would winning this award impact this group and the work that they are doing?
10 points: THOUGHT LEADERSHIP & INNOVATIVE THINKING:
How thoughtful, creative, and unique is this community’s approach to their challenge, opportunity, or situation?