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Kaipara residents are being urged to nominate local community champions for this year’s Kaipara Citizens Awards, with organisers extending the deadline to 14 May after receiving only a small number of entries so far.
The Kaipara Citizens Awards recognise individuals who go above and beyond in their communities, celebrating volunteers, mentors and leaders whose contributions make a meaningful difference.
“So far we’ve only received a small number of nominations for this year’s awards, so we’ve extended the deadline for nominations to 14 May,” council said.
“Don’t leave it to someone else – if someone comes to mind, now’s the time to nominate them. Let’s make sure the people who help make our communities stronger get the recognition they deserve.”
Previous nominee Joyce, recognised for her long-standing service to the community, said being put forward for the award came as a surprise.
Joyce has served as a leader of the Girls’ Brigade for 10 years, a volunteer at the Citizens Advice Bureau for 12 years, and supporting the Methodist Church for 15 years.
“I really appreciated that my colleagues had gone to the effort of nominating me,” Joyce aid.
“Like most volunteers I don’t do it for recognition, but for the good of our community and the joy of helping in a meaningful way, but to be recognised in this way means a great deal.”
Joyce believes there are many people quietly making a difference who deserve the same acknowledgment.
“It’s important to recognise those who give their time and talents to serve others,” she says.
“There are so many people doing good work who might otherwise go unnoticed. I’d encourage anyone to take the time to nominate them.
Citizens Award recipient, Kenny Finlayson, was also nominated in 2025 for the work he does in the community. He involved with several sports clubs, including the Otamatea Hawks for over 30 years, the Maungatūroto Country Club, Paparoa Golf Club and Maungatūroto Squash Club, alongside his involvement with the Maungatūroto Residents Association, Maungatūroto Centennial Hall and the St John Otamatea Area Committee.
Kenny says he was proud to have been recognised for his work and encourages people to shine a light on others quietly making a difference.
“It did mean a lot to me. It was an acknowledgement from the community of their gratitude for my effort,” he says.
“I would encourage others to nominate the people they see doing the mahi to make their community or sports club a better place.
“Sometimes it’s the small things that make a big difference.”
Nominations can be made online through the Kaipara District Council website, with entries closing on 14 May.
