Nominations Now Open to Find Extraordinary New Zealanders

MEDIA RELEASE
5th July 2012

Nominations Now Open to Find Extraordinary New Zealanders

Nominations are now open for the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards 2013 launched last night at a public event at the Q Theatre in Auckland. Awarded for outstanding service, achievement and contribution to the nation, the awards celebrate excellence in New Zealand and give every New Zealander the opportunity to identify an individual or community group who inspires them.

The New Zealander of the Year 2012, Sir Richard Taylor of Wellington, was recognised for his dedication to the country - setting a shining example by advocating for his community whilst establishing himself as a global player in the movie industry. Richard is a passionate and articulate New Zealander, committed to this country, and committed to showing New Zealanders that we can do it here. As he says, "Why shouldn't it be us?”

The Awards were launched last night at a public event in Auckland and were attended by many dignitaries, current Award recipients and national community leaders. Guests heard from current Award winners including a message from Sir Richard Taylor and Young New Zealander of the Year, Sam Johnson from Christchurch. They were also treated to an exclusive performance by top Kiwi performer Jeremy Redmore of Midnight Youth.

“Ideal candidates are inspirational New Zealanders who are stepping up, making the most of what they have to offer, helping others and seeking new ways of making society better,” explains Awards Patron, former Kiwibank Chairman and Prime Minister Jim Bolger.

“I am amazed by the overwhelming contribution made by people of all ages to their communities, New Zealand and the world at large. These Awards give us a platform to recognise, celebrate and encourage those Kiwis making a difference in our communities.”

All New Zealanders are encouraged to nominate a fellow Kiwi whose contribution to society makes them feel proud and deserving of recognition. Nominations are open until Friday 12th October 2012 and judging will take place in November and December.

“We’re extremely proud to have supported these awards since their inception and have seen some extraordinary New Zealanders acknowledged. The three previous New Zealander of the Year winners are all inspirational Kiwis who have represented great success across different sectors and we’re excited to see who will be recognised in 2013,” said Paul Brock, Kiwibank CEO.

Up to 250 Local Heroes will be judged as recipients of medals which will be awarded at over 15 regional public events throughout November.

The finalists in each of the five categories will be announced early in 2013 and the winners will be revealed at the gala Awards dinner on February 28th, 2013.

Any New Zealand citizen 15 years of age and over can be nominated in one or more of the five award categories:

Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year
Honouring the inspirational achievements of a remarkable person

Countdown Senior New Zealander of the Year
Recognising over 60s making a positive contribution to the nation

Coca-Cola Amatil Young New Zealander of the Year
Role models aged between 15 and 30 who are inspiring young New Zealanders

Mitre 10 Community of the Year
Acknowledging groups and organisations working together to build better communities

Kiwibank Local Heroes
Rewarding everyday people doing extraordinary things in their communities. Up to 250 Kiwibank local Hero medals will be awarded in up to 15 regions across the country. One national winner will be celebrated at the gala Awards dinner.

Principal sponsor Kiwibank is pleased to provide each category winner with $5,000 towards their work and a custom made trophy. All nominees will receive a certificate of achievement or encouragement in recognition of their contribution.

South Islanders will be encouraged to identify and reward inspirational New Zealanders in their region at a local Launch next Thursday 12th July in Dunedin again with fantastic speakers and entertainment which is free and open to the public.

Nomination forms are available online at www.nzawards.org.nz or Kiwibank, Countdown and Mitre 10 stores.

For information or assistance in submitting a nomination:

Call toll free: 0508 692 927
Email: info@nzawards.org.nz

-ends-

© Scoop Media