Get out there and nominate the special Kiwis who have made a difference
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Kiwibank has announced that nominations for the 2019 New Zealander of the Year Awards are now open.
Now on its 10th year, the awards 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, communities and endeavours including the arts, sport, community service, public service, environment, volunteers, tourism, business, rural, education, entertainment, science, technology, innovation and cultural development.
Nominations are being sort for the prestigious title of Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year and 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
Kristine Bartlett, who was named 2018 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, encourages Kiwis to get out there and nominate the special people who have bettered the lives of individuals, communities and the country.
“Being named New Zealander of the Year was incredibly humbling to me and something I’d never dreamed of winning,” she said. “The Awards are gracious in the way they appreciate those in communities whose good deeds may fly under the radar.”
Inaugural Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Ray Avery, meanwhile, said: “Being named the inaugural New Zealander of the Year was a huge honour and it’s still one of the proudest moments of my life 10 years on.
“Kiwis are a pretty humble bunch but we’ve got so much to be proud of. There are people from all walks of life doing the most extraordinary things, not for themselves but for their fellow New Zealanders. Let’s celebrate their achievements.”
New Zealander of the Year Awards manager Glyn Taylor said the previous winners have come from a vast range of endeavours, which will make the hunt for this year’s winner even more exciting.
“We look forward to finding these special people again,” Taylor said.
Kiwis can nominate an individual or community organisation in the awards programme. Nominations close midnight of September 17.
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