4 July 2017
New Zealander of the Year 2018 call for nominations
The New Zealander of the Year Awards Office is seeking nominations for the 2018 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year and
supporting categories.
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 2018 New Zealander of the Year Awards can be made until midnight18th September 2017 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.
Comment from 2017 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, Taika Waititi:
"I'm devastated to learn that being New Zealander of the Year only lasts for one year, and that they'll be looking for
another New Zealander of the Year for next year.
“I realise that for a lot of my fellow kiwis nothing will compare to me, but all I can say is be strong, you'll get
through this, and we'll always have 2017. I also encourage you all to use your voice and vote for the next New Zealander
of the Year, even though that person will probably not be me. Unless there's a petition to change the law.”
Comment from New Zealander of the Year Awards manager, Glyn Taylor:
“The New Zealander of the Year Awards are the ultimate recognition for those who make our communities better places to
live. Whether it’s in the neighbourhood, national or global stage, we’re lucky to have so many fine people whose passion
and service has improved the lives of others.
“The Awards are open to all New Zealanders. Anyone can nominate that special person as New Zealander of the Year or the
five supporting categories.
“Previous winners of New Zealander of the Year have come from all fields of achievement. From scientists, artists and
innovators to healthcare providers and charitable individuals. The search is now on to see who fills the top spot next
year.”
Background
The annual New Zealander of the Year awards are in their ninth 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.
The 2018 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year will be announced at the New Zealander of the Year Gala Awards in Auckland
on 21 February.
Previous winners of the New Zealander of the Year Award are: Taika Waititi (2017), Richie McCaw, (2016) Sir Stephen
Tindall (2015), Dr Lance O’Sullivan (2014), Dame Anne Salmond (2013), Sir Richard Taylor (2012), Sir Paul Callaghan
(2011) and Sir Ray Avery (2010).
More information on the 2018 New Zealander of the Year Awards is at www.nzawards.org.nz
Editors Notes
Award Categories Descriptions
The New Zealander of the Year
The most prestigious national award. It honours people for their contribution to the well-being of New Zealand. Proven,
inspirational and passionate, these are the people that New Zealanders are proud to call their own.
Young New Zealander of the Year
These are the leaders of tomorrow who are already showing great promise. They are the ones who are striving to improve
themselves, their communities and/or their nation.
Senior New Zealander of the year
These are the people who have shown sustained excellence in their field. They are the ones with a lifetime of
achievement behind them but are still actively involved in making the world around them a better place.
New Zealand Innovator of the Year
These are the game changers in their field who have used their insight and their passion to make an impact. They are the
ones driving our society and economy forward.
New Zealand Local Hero of the Year
These are individuals who have made a positive difference in their community. They show selflessness and determination
to make a difference, sometimes in the face of personal adversity.
New Zealand Community of the Year
These are communities who display the best of community spirit. They have significantly contributed to the economic,
social or environmental health of their areas or region. Their services have made a lasting impact on the community they
serve.