Who could be the New Zealander of the Year?

Nominations are being sought from around the country for the first ever Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, an award recognising the best that our country has to offer.

The New Zealander of the Year Award is open to anyone - no matter their age, where they live or what they do for a living. The recipient will be selected for his or her major contribution to our nation. They will have demonstrated an unrivalled ability to inspire us all through their achievements and their outstanding service to New Zealand.

It’s all about celebrating the very best of New Zealand, regardless of ethnicity, interest, gender or inclination.

The New Zealander of the Year Award is not just for household names like celebrities, politicians or sports stars.

While award organisers hope some well-known New Zealanders will be nominated, ultimately you don’t have to be broadly recognised to have made a significant contribution.

“Simply put, these awards are about celebrating the best of us,” says New Zealander of the Year Awards Coordinator Grant McCabe.

“We want all New Zealanders to feel a sense of pride at some of the extraordinary contributions people just like them make every day. If they know about it, it just may inspire others to reach for greater heights!”

Paul Brock, Kiwibank’s acting Chief Executive says it’s the Kiwi spirit that makes our county great.

“It’s our ability to think and dream big that lets us punch above our weight. And it’s our community spirit and desire to help others that makes our communities strong,” Mr Brock says.

“The New Zealander of the Year could be a household name or an unsung hero. Whatever, we want to honour and recognise the achievements and contributions of a remarkable person who embodies our Kiwi spirit and who is a true inspiration.” He says.

The winner of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year will be awarded their trophy and $5,000 prize money at the awards gala in Auckland in February 2010. All nominees will also receive a certificate of appreciation to mark their inclusion in the inaugural awards.

Nominations close on 20th November and application forms are available from Kiwibank and Mitre 10 branches or free phone 0508 692 927 for more details. You can also nominate online at www.nzawards.org.nz