The former Havelock North High School teacher, also arranged pastoral care of international students at the school during her time there.
She said when her husband first told her of the nomination she thought it was a hoax.
"I didn't do anything heroic, I didn't pull anyone from a burning car or rescue someone from drowning."
Although she said there were bound to be plenty of other "more deserving" candidates, she was humbled by the accolade.
"It's nice to be recognised, especially while I'm still alive," Mrs Dietz joked. Mrs Dietz was honoured along with nine other local heroes.
Robin Hape was recognised for his tireless contributions to the Te Hauke community. He is currently employed as a tutor and regional co-ordinator for Te Whare Wananga o Awanuia Rangi. He is also the chairman of the Kahuranaki Marae committee, is the iwi representative on the Te Aute College Trust Board and a tutor and student of Awanuiarangi.
Napier's Kathleen Meek was named a local hero. She has been involved with Cub Scouts for 14 years, first as a parent helper and then becoming a leader. She also volunteered with the Civil Defence service for 20 years and is part of Napier Community Patrol.
Overseas trained opera singer and local hero award winner Anna Pierard not only performs regularly for local audiences, but also dedicates a huge amount of time and energy to the local community. She has also been actively involved in Project Prima Volta with Hawke's Bay school students.
Local hero Denise Coulam spent more than 30 years with the 2nd Taradale Girls Brigade, serving as captain with more than 100 girls in her care and later as commander, before retiring.
In addition to this community service she has been involved in running "Mainly Music" at her church and has supported the parish in other initiatives such as the creche and drop-in centre.
Caroline Innes has been the gallery manager for Electra Gallery since its inception and was recognised last night for her contributions.
She has been an active member of Central Hawke's Bay's The Festival committee since 2001.
Central Hawke's Bay local hero Anthony Gray has given many years of service to his beloved community.
He has been a volunteer worker for Victim Support for 15 years, providing support and help for those in need.
Mr Gray is a volunteer driver for Red Cross and the Pakeke Centre and has organised the making of lunches for the Rotary Sea, Sky and Bush walk.
Pride of New Zealand Lifetime Achievement award winner Jim Edwards was again recognised for his selflessness. In 1994, Mr Edwards and his wife built a fully carved waka and established the Nga Tukemata O Kahungunu Vocational Charitable Trust.
The trust assists people aged 16-65 with permanent disabilities with their rehabilitation.
Brigit Gibbs has been improving her community for half a century.
Over the years she has been a very valuable member of the Central Hawke's Bay Budget Service. This year, Ms Gibbs was awarded a long service award for 50 years' service with the Red Cross.
Helen Manning is actively involved as a secretary and treasurer for a number of local voluntary services within Central Hawke's Bay. She was recognised for her part as St John's Church treasurer for 12 years, the treasurer for the RSA Waipawa for seven years, and has been involved with the Red Cross Central Hawke's Bay for 20 years.
