Pride of NZ Awards set for launch

TSB Bank has been confirmed as a major partner of the inaugural 2014 Pride of New Zealand Awards to be launched nationwide in early May.

The bank will work alongside the Rotorua Daily Post , New Zealand Herald and The Hits (previously Classic Hits) in recognising the efforts of everyday Kiwis who make a real difference in their communities.

The Pride of New Zealand Awards were announced at the New Zealand Herald's 150th birthday celebrations last year.

"The people who make the most positive, uplifting and inspiring contributions in the community do so selflessly, and many of the most outstanding efforts go unheralded," APN chief executive Martin Simons said at the time.

"We want to change that and recognise everyday people doing extraordinary things."

Kevin Murphy, managing director of TSB Bank, said the partnership was a natural fit for the bank, which had been 100 per cent New Zealand owned and independent since 1850.

Nominations will be called for in the following categories:

Bravery/Heroism Award - those who have selflessly disregarded their own safety to help someone else.

Community Spirit Award - those whose tireless and largely unacknowledged actions have enriched their community.

Fundraiser of the Year Award - those who have gone beyond all expectations to raise money for a good cause.

Emergency Services Award - those professional or volunteer emergency service members who have gone beyond the call of duty.

Environmental Award - those who have positively impacted the environment.

Lifetime Achievement - those whose ongoing commitment to their cause has enriched the lives of others.

Four regional award ceremonies will take place in August, with the winners becoming finalists for the national award ceremony in September.

The awards will be judged by a panel of prominent Kiwis and the public will also be given an opportunity to have their say in the TSB Bank People's Choice Award.