Honouring those who make our communities thrive

An extraordinary ability to bring people together. 

A tireless behind the scenes community work ethic. 

And an unwavering dedication to where they live. 

These are all common traits of our district’s passionate volunteers honoured at this year’s Mayoral Community Awards held yesterday. 

Our recipients were nominated for their awards through our councillors, community boards and community committees. 

These awards are just a small token of our thanks for all that they do to make our communities better places to be. 

Despite all the pressures we face in our own lives here in New Zealand, it’s occasions like this that serve as a reminder of how lucky we are to be living in our wonderful district here in New Zealand. 

With that in mind, the value of community spirit has perhaps never been higher. 

Twenty-three people from throughout the district are an embodiment of that community spirit, and were recognised for their willingness and desire to help others. 

Raising money for local charities; organising local events; volunteering at schools and clubs; keeping our towns clean and tidy – these are just some of the examples of what our award recipients get up to while often putting the needs of others ahead of their own. 

I also thought it was important to recognise the efforts of our frontline volunteer emergency services personnel, so awards were handed out to all the volunteer fire brigades in our district. 

Most of us know that the brigades are a whole lot more than just putting out fires – whether it them being first responders to car crashes; leading the charge during civil defence emergencies or responding to medical emergencies, this special group of people are the backbones of our communities. On behalf of all our communities and everyone here at Council, I thank you all very much. 

So once again, a huge thanks to all of our 2024 Mayoral Community Awards recipients. You truly are at the forefront of our Council vision of building liveable, thriving and connected communities. 

Check out list of Mayoral Community Awards recipients for 2024, including brief citations.

See our recipients here