Everyday people doing exceptional things were the toast of the town on Friday night when 22 Northlanders received 2019 Kiwibank Local Hero Awards in Whangārei. Each received a medal, and congratulations, from mayor Sheryl Mai.
"Our region's 22 local heroes demonstrate the acts of charity, commitment and selflessness which is what holds a community together. Many of these individuals are inspiring members of our community who have all uniquely touched the lives of others," Ms Mai said.
"The awards continue to be the perfect opportunity for our community to acknowledge these people and their efforts in making Northland a better place to live."
The recipients were Pat Newman, Fay Patricia Colthurst, Brent Martin, Pam Stevens, Major Christopher Nelson Williams, Ada Fleet, Malcolm McKerrow, Virginia Barr Eiger, Liane Tracey Blair, Brian McLachlan, Elyse Lewis, Robyn Warin and Kerry Reyburn (all Whangārei), Ciaran Torrington (Kaitaia), Warren James Daniel (Ruakaka), Craig and Greta Harman (Hikurangi), Ellen Norman (Kaitaia), Nigel Ross (Kaikohe), Heather Stanley and Tanya Filia (Kaikohe).
This year 322 medals will be presented nationwide, with one New Zealand Local Hero of the Year to be announced at the New Zealander of the Year awards gala in February.