New Zealand nurses receive top honours

Young Nurse of the Year 2015 Gemma Hutton. Photo / Supplied

A Christchurch practice nurse has been awarded top honours while a rural nurse from Franz Josef was recognised as the Young Nurse of the Year at the New Zealand Nurses Organisations' awards.

Leanne Lloyd of Christchurch was recognised for her approach to cervical screening with the Award of Honour.

NZNO kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku said at the awards dinner last night in Wellington that Ms Lloyd mentored nurses around the Maori perspective of cervical screening.

"Leanne's passion for women's health stems from her mother dying from cervical cancer and wanting women to have a positive experience and feel comfortable during their smear tests," Ms Nuku said.

Ms Lloyd was called "an inspirational role model" and in 2012 she established her own Independent Nursing Provider Service.

Award of Honour winner Leanne Lloyd. Photo / Supplied

NZNO said Ms Lloyd has broad knowledge and experience in primary care including cervical screening clinics, health promotion, breast screening enrolments and support to mammography.

She also provides a support service for young mothers with new or second children under two, including medical support, social support and advocacy with government agencies and support with whanau.

"Communities just wouldn't function as they do without the hard work and passion of people like Leanne. I am pleased to have this opportunity to thank her for work and commitment to our organisation and to nursing," Ms Nuku said.

Young Nurse of The Year Gemma Hutton was recognised for going the extra mile for the Franz Josef community.

NZNO spokesperson Jill Clendon said Ms Hutton is "a nurse with the x-factor."

"She see the needs in the community, and gets to work straight away putting goals in place and achieving positive health outcomes.

"Gemma has implemented a new mum's group, an exercise and healthy lifestyle group. She supports the St John ambulance team in Franz Josef, and all that is after work."

"I echo Gemma's nominator when I say I believe Gemma to be an excellent role model for young nurses entering the profession. Nursing is in good hands."

Ms Hutton was she was surprised and humbled to receive the award.

"I feel quite overwhelmed that my colleagues even thought to nominate me. Being acknowledged for doing something I love feels awesome."