Editorial: Helpers, thanks a bunch

Leanne White-Haverkamp, left, and Erin Thompson-Pou from FlavAzum Health and Fitness Rotorua were the supreme winners at the TrustPower Spirit of Rotorua Awards.

The finalists for the TrustPower Spirit of Rotorua Awards came from a wide range of community groups - from triathletes to musical theatre actors to young farmers, to animal lovers.

What they all have in common is the invaluable role they, and the volunteers who run them, play within our community.

So it was great to see some of them recognised for their hard work last night.

You might not make use of every community group out there. You might prefer heavy metal to musicals and spending your weekends running triathlons may not be your idea of fun. But chances are at some point in your life you (or your parents or children) will gain help, support or enjoyment thanks to a community group run by dedicated volunteers.

So to all volunteers, whether involved in the awards or not, give yourselves a pat on the back. Whether we show it or not, we do appreciate your hard work.

A special congratulations must go to the awards' supreme winners, FlavAzum Health and Fitness Rotorua.

Last month the Rotorua Daily Post told FlavAzum's story, speaking to the three inspirational women behind the group.

They told us their goal was to inspire members to get fit, in turn improving their self-esteem, confidence and an overall sense of worth and whanaungatanga (kinship).

Catering to all ages, shapes and sizes, their ethos includes to "pay it forward" and "never leave anyone behind".

Worthy winners indeed.