Citizens' awards open for nominations

Zita Smith gifting a korowai Maori cloak to Richie McCaw in August 2014. Photo / Glenn Taylor

The nominations for the 2016 Napier Citizen Civic Awards have now opened for members of the public to nominate and recognise people who are shining examples of volunteering for community service.

The awards were founded 38 years ago to pay tribute to the people who put in the time and effort to do something for their community.

One of the recipients of last year's awards, Jill McConnochie, said both her parents had been active in community organisations and that had inspired her to become a volunteer herself.

"If you see the need and you have the time, why shouldn't you step up?" she said.

Mrs McConnochie had been a driver for Meals on Wheels for more than 40 years, as well as putting in time with Trade Aid, producing the St Paul's Presbyterian Church newsletter for more than 35 years and serving with the Hawke's Bay branch of the National Council for Women.

Another 2015 recipient, Zita Smith, said her parents too were involved in several charitable causes and like Mrs McConnochie she too wanted to step up.

"It's such a good feeling and it gives me a lot of pleasure to do something for the community," she said.

She has been involved in Kids Can, Relay for Life, Napier Little Oaks Project as well as extensive work with Maori Wardens.

She also handmade and gifted korowai Maori cloaks to visiting celebrities and stars including Rod Stewart, Barry Gibb, Eric Clapton and former All Black skipper Richie McCaw.

Nominations close on July 1. Go to www.napier.govt.nz and search "civic awards".