21 September 2016
CubaDupa wins Regional Community Awards
Wellington street festival CubaDupa won the Supreme Award at the 2016 Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards last
night.
Every March, more than 100,000 people flock to Wellington’s iconic Cuba Street for CubaDupa, which is transformed into a
magical interactive playground of sounds, sights and taste.
Kate Louise Elliot, General Manager CubaDupa said “We are proud to be able to bring such a vibrant street arts festival
to Wellington and are honoured that we were in such esteemed company. So many fantastic people contribute to this event
with their time, energy and enthusiasm which makes Wellington's CubaDupa the
extraordinary experience that it is. A huge thank you to everyone who became part of our family in delivering this
event. We warmly welcome everyone to participate with us at CubaDupa 2017 25/26 March"
Steve Sanderson, Chief Executive of Wellington Airport, said CubaDupa embodied the spirit of the Regional Community
Awards.
“The event is brought to life by a dedicated team of passionate staff, residents, retailers, performers and an army of
volunteers. The panel was impressed by the many thousands of volunteer hours and the collaborative partnerships
developed.
“We are proud to celebrate the contribution of community group volunteers with the Wellington Airport Regional Community
Awards each year. Congratulations to all the winners.”
Mark Cassidy, Chief Executive of Wellington Community Trust said: “The Community Awards offer an opportunity to bring
together community groups from all over the region so that we can celebrate and reward their achievements. The diversity
amongst the finalists is inspiring and heartwarming evidence that there are many people prepared to volunteer their
time, creativity and compassion to make life in Wellington better for all of us. The Wellington Community Trust is very
pleased to continue to be part of these Awards.”
Wellington Airport also awarded five local high school students $3000 scholarships in the Wild at Heart Spirit Awards.
These winners demonstrate self-motivation in service to their community and college.
This year celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Wild at Heart Spirit Award scholarships. First presented in 2007, 45
students have been awarded the scholarships over the previous nine years of the awards. Wellington Airport presented the
50th scholarship to Millie Dow from Wellington East Girls’ College.
Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards 2016 Winners
Supreme Award – CubaDupa – Creative Capital Arts Trust
Arts and Culture: CubaDupa – Creative Capital Arts Trust
Education and Child/Youth Development: InsideOUT
Health and Wellbeing: Upper Hutt Community Rescue Incorporated
Heritage and Environment: Friends of the Otaki River
Sport and Leisure: Raptors Tag Club
Rising Star Award: Naenae Fruit & Vege Co-op
$3000 Wild at Heart Spirit Award Scholarship recipients:
· Sohadi Yes - Rongotai College
· Daniella Emer-Barbalich - St Catherine’s College
· Nathan Lopa - St Patrick’s College
· Peter McKenzie - Scots College
· Millie Dow - Wellington East Girls’ College
ENDS