Three CHB people named Kiwibank Local Hero medallists

Neen Kennedy from Waipukurau is one of three CHB Kiwibank Local Hero medallists.

Three Central Hawke's Bay locals have been named Kiwibank Local Hero medallists for their work in the community.

The top 100 local hero nominees have been recognised this December.

"If there has ever been a time to celebrate those who've made outstanding contributions to the wellbeing of our country, it's now. It is a real privilege to honour extraordinary Kiwis whose selflessness, creativity and vision make us proud to call Aotearoa New Zealand home," Kiwibank chief executive Steve Jurkovich says.

One recipient, Neen Kennedy, hadn't even realised she had been nominated when someone else shared her win on her sustainable living Facebook page Sustainable Ewe.

"Absolutely gobsmacked" is how Neen said she felt when she found out about the win.

She received the award for "being absolutely mad about recycling".

As well as Sustainable Ewe she runs The Great Bucket Rescue, which takes 15-litre food grade buckets that were bound for landfill and converts them into home-composting units, and she is also part of the Central Hawke's Bay Food Basket team who redistribute food to those in need.

"It's neat that I got the award but I'm just one person who is part of a big wheel. It wouldn't be possible without the 700-plus people on Sustainable Ewe".

Waipukurau man Lynn Cross is also an award recipient for his volunteer and community services in the town he has now lived for about 50 years.

He has been involved in a range of community groups including Jaycees and Lions, was chairman of the Waipukurau branch of St John Ambulance, and has helped out at Lakeview Kindergarten, as a driver for the blind and as a scout leader and community patrol member.

He also keeps an eye on graffiti in the CBD area and paints over any that crops up on buildings that are not part of council maintenance.

"I believe in helping the community that helps you.

"A lot needs to be done which someone needs to do them. I don't feel put upon to do them, it's an enjoyable thing but it's also an act of service for the community."

Lynn, along with the third recipient of the award Pauline Mackie of Ongaonga, were recognised with Civic Awards last year.

Pauline served as president of the Ongaonga Historical Society for 18 years which, under her leadership, established the village museum.

She has also been involved in the Playcentre and previously ran Central Hawke's Bay's Riding for the Disabled.

There are seven medallists in Hawke's Bay.