Outstanding things are achieved every day in Horowhenua, thanks to the invaluable work of many dedicated members of our community.

The annual Civic and Youth Excellence Awards took place at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō on Tuesday night, an opportunity to recognise community members who have gone out of their way to help enrich the lives of others.

Presented by Mayor Bernie Wanden, five Civic Honours were awarded, alongside four Certificates of Recognition. In addition, twelve extraordinary young people received Youth Excellence Scholarships.

Three Special Mayoral Awards ‘Eke Tangaroa’ were presented for the first time this year, created to recognise exemplary commitment to a specific project in 2023.

Horowhenua Mayor Bernie Wanden said the awards were one of the most important and anticipated civic events in the Council calendar.

“For more than 25 years we have been acknowledging and celebrating the people that voluntarily help others, bring people together and give back to the community and beyond in so many ways.”

 “Civic Awards recognises the important contribution these individuals and groups have made in our community. We are grateful to our recipients for their tireless service to help our people overcome challenges, care for the environment and bring joy and happiness to uplift our community.” Mayor Bernie Wanden adds.

Youth Excellence Scholarships are an acknowledgement of commitment, dedication and hard work, rewarding some of our most outstanding young sportsmen and women, top scholars, amazing performers and those who give their time to our community by way of voluntary service and participation. Scholarships are awarded to assist with costs such as tertiary study, sporting equipment and travel. 

Civic Honours were presented to:

• Sharon Freebairn
• Joanna Mason
• Jan-Maree Hayes
• Victoria Kaye-Simmons
• Matai’a Aleni Feagaiga

Special Mayoral Award Eke Tangaroa were presented to:

• Christine Belsham
• Kathy Mitchell
• Catherine Lewis

Certificates of Recognition were presented to:

• Felicity Clarke
• Bill Harvey
• Derek Prior
• Tony Robinson

Youth Excellence Scholarships were awarded to:

• Paloma Janse (Academia)
• Isabel Maclean (Academia)
• Nathan Eyles (Academia)
• Maiah Cudby (Community Service)
• Georgia Cruse (Community Service)
• Ta’lia Tuitama (Community Service)
• Whatu Kiriona (Sport)
• Lavalea Fonoti (Arts and Culture)
• Charli O’Brien (Arts and Culture)
• Te Waipounamu Tamati (Arts and Culture)
• Flynn Warren (Sport)
• Cassie Yates (Sport)
• Whatu Kiriona (Sport)