Sign In / Register
Colin Gallagher, former Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) chair and leading fundraiser, has been recognised in the annual Kaipara District Council citizens’ awards.
Gallagher, who stood down last year after more than a decade at the helm of the MAZ Trust, was given the award at a ceremony in Dargaville on Thursday.
Over that period, he is credited with securing millions of dollars in funding for a world-class skatepark, pump tracks, 3×3 basketball court, tennis court, outdoor gym and other facilities, including funds to level ground to create a playing field for soccer, cricket and volleyball.
He’s also been involved in the MAZ Santa Parades and Christmas concerts and a volunteer on the Gumdiggers Track build.
Mayor Craig Jepson, who nominated Gallagher for the award, noted that he often took the lead at working bees, planting and maintaining the facilities at MAZ.
“His dedication has been outstanding. Colin chaired the committee and was actively involved in getting finance for construction where needed and organising volunteers to make a start. Colin is inspirational, always looking for new ideas how MAZ could be improved,” he said.
First awarded in 2001, the KDC citizens’ award recognises substantial – usually voluntary – service benefiting Kaipara and its people.
Other recipients this year were Noel Moran, a volunteer fireman for 30 years and Lions Club stalwart over two decades; Peter Hames, chair of the Progressive Paparoa committee and longstanding volunteer in the community; and Tui Hutchinson, teacher at Dargaville’s Selwyn Park Primary School and driving force behind after-school sport and recreation programs.
