The annual Kiwibank Local Hero Awards have seen some of the most selfless, optimistic and generous Hawke's Bay residents recognised for their service to the community.
As part of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards 2018, 13 Hawke's Bay locals received their Local Hero medals at a special ceremony at the Kiwibank office in Hastings.
Pamela Anne O'Keefe (Flaxmere), Paul Geertson (Flaxmere), Kiri Swannell (Napier), Whiu Carroll (Napier), Sallie Dunford (Napier), Jacqueline Edwards (Hastings), Lloyd Lawrence (Waipukurau), Renee Hicky (Waipukurau), Kathy Grant (Wairoa), Wayne Michael Hema (Waiora), Lyn Gordon (Wairoa), Dorothea Millen (Hawke's Bay) and Gabrielle Allen (Hawke's Bay) were those who were named.
Hastings Acting Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst said: "This year's recipients are selfless, loving and dedicated people who have made a significant difference to our community in special ways. We are blessed to have such wonderful people in our Hastings community."
Along with Ms Hazlehurst, Napier Mayor Bill Dalton, and Central Hawke's Bay Mayor Alex Walker also attended the ceremony to congratulate and present medals to this year's winners.