Pride of NZ: Gina Peiffer

HUMBLED: Gina Peiffer. PHOTO/FILE

Gina Peiffer doesn't help people for the accolades. Last week she was named Rotorua Daily Post Person of the Month for April. Now, she has been nominated in the Community Spirit category of the Pride of New Zealand Awards.

Mrs Peiffer and her husband, Elmer, run Love Soup Rotorua. As well as helping to house and feed Rotorua's homeless, they help feed those who are on low incomes. Leftover produce, donated by their sponsor, is given away daily.

She said being nominated for this award was humbling.

"Without the community, we couldn't do what we are doing," she said.

"It's a combined effort. It's not me but everyone else around me who helps out."

She said their kaupapa was rough sleepers and homeless. They helped get them into accommodation and then clothed them. They then go about teaching them life skills, such as cooking, shopping and budgeting.

"Their home is open to these people 24/7 for giving them the assistance that they need," said Mrs Peiffer's nominator.

"Gina is always at her stove creating beautiful meals with whatever she has in Love Soup's pantry and goes into hers when needs must.

"The love is the driving force behind this all and never falters."

-Nominations can be made until June 14 at www.prideofnzawards.co.nz. Awards categories are: Bravery and Heroism, Community Spirit, Fundraiser of the Year, Emergency Services, Environment and Lifetime Achievement.