Selfless acts of ordinary Kiwis moves Pride judges

Deciding the Pride of NZ category finalists was not an easy task for (from left) Kevin Murphy, Sir Peter Leitch, Jane Hastings, Willie Apiata and Judy Bailey. Photo / Dean Pucell

Some of the country's most selfless volunteers and community heroes have been chosen as the regional winners of the inaugural Pride of New Zealand Awards.

At a judging conference in Auckland yesterday, celebrity judges "The Mad Butcher" Sir Peter Leitch, former news anchor Judy Bailey and Victoria Cross holder Willie Apiata helped to decide the winners. APN NZ chief executive Jane Hastings and TSB Bank head Kevin Murphy were also on the judging panel.

Videos of the 26 finalists were shown and the judges were asked to choose favourites in the six categories - Bravery & Heroism, Community Spirit, Emergency Services, Environment, Fundraiser of the Year and Lifetime Achievement.

Sir Peter said the calibre of all the nominees had made for some tough decisions. "There was no one in there that I thought should not have been there. They were all just amazing and were doing amazing things for their community. These are people who give their time freely just because they can and just because they want to. They're just great Kiwis."

Bailey said hearing people's stories and learning about their backgrounds had been a highlight.

"The selflessness of these people is inspiring. Most of us would say: 'Oh, I'm busy right now'. When really, we're not. We can all do our bit and like one of the nominees said - if we all did our little bit, then we'd be the most amazing people."

The Pride of NZ Awards - announced at the Herald's 150th birthday celebrations last year - are in association with APN regional newspapers, TSB Bank and The Hits radio station. National winners will be announced at a special event on September 10 at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. The People's Choice award winner will also be revealed then.

To vote for the People's Choice Award, visit: www.prideofnzawards.co.nz.