Alison Neill

Senior New Zealander of the Year

2011

Ryman Healthcare

Senior New Zealander of the Year

Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau

Alison Neill

Alison Neill is a compassionate New Zealand nurse and founder of Moreh Home in Fairlie, established in 1978 to care for elderly residents without official funding, relying instead on donations and respite care . Her unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing environment led her to work solely for board and lodging, creating a family-like atmosphere for those in need . Recognized for her selfless service, she was named Senior New Zealander of the Year in 2011 . Neill’s legacy of faith-driven care and community support continues to inspire efforts in elder care across New Zealand.

Image from: Stuff.co.nz | John Bisset

Creating a legacy for tomorrow, these people have made a positive contribution to Aotearoa later in their life, following their careers in any service, sector or field. They are actively involved in making the world around them a better place.

Nominees of this Award must:

Be over the age of 70, at the open of nominations on 24 July 2024.
Have had significant impact in their senior years
Be a role model for New Zealanders and highlight that change is possible at any age
Meet Awards Conditions of Entry.

Award Criteria

Judges will review each nominee using the following criteria:

10 points: OVERALL INSPIRATION:
Describe the person you are nominating and what they’ve done later in life to inspire you to nominate them as 2025 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
10 points: PURPOSE:
Who benefits from the work, contribution, or influence of this person – and how?
10 points: LEADERSHIP & SERVICE:
How does this person set a positive example of being a senior member of the community – showing potential for making change at any age.
10 points: COMMITMENT:
Describe the commitment of time, risks, and challenges overcome to create an impact to this point (this may still be ongoing). What have they done that has gone above and beyond following their career, achievements, or service to create change and give back?
10 points: PROVEN IMPACT:
How has this person clearly demonstrated a positive impact in their area of influence, particularly during their senior years? How has this been measured?
10 points: LEGACY
How would winning this award impact this person’s legacy and their mahi (past or present)?