Do You Know Someone Exceptional?

The heroes and leaders amongst us often go about their business quietly and unobtrusively, doing good work because it is personally satisfying to them, rather than for the recognition.

As a country, we punch well above our weight when it comes to the number of exceptional people per capita. If you know someone like this, now is the time you can do your own good deed and nominate them for the 2016 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year and supporting categories.

The  awards are in their seventh year. They recognise, encourage and reward New Zealand’s most vital asset – its people. They’re open to all New Zealanders and celebrate the contributions of New Zealanders from all walks of life. Glyn Taylor New Zealander of the Year Awards manager says “The New Zealander of the Year Awards is the ultimate recognition of people’s service to New Zealand, nominated by New Zealanders. They honour the best of us and reward outstanding individuals or groups who are passionate about making our country a better place to live.”

The Awards seek nominations from all fields of endeavour including the arts, sport, community service, health, public service, environment, volunteers, tourism, business, rural, education, entertainment, science, technology, innovation and cultural development.

Nominations are also being sought for exceptional New Zealanders in the following categories:

University of Auckland Young New Zealander of the Year (15 – 30 years)
Metlifecare Senior New Zealander of the Year (60 years and over)
Kiwibank New Zealand Local Hero of the Year
Sanitarium New Zealand Innovator of the Year
Mitre10 New Zealand Community of the Year

Any member of the public can nominate an individual or community organisation in the Awards programme. Nominations for the 2016 New Zealander of the Year Awards can be made until 30th September 2015 through completing the online nomination form or requesting an information brochure from the Awards Office at www.nzawards.co.nz or by calling 0508 692 927.