Every community has them – the people whose leadership, service and quiet determination help shape Horowhenua for the better, the coach who stays late, the volunteer who never misses a working bee, or the young person already making their mark.
They might be organising fundraisers, supporting rangatahi, caring for the environment, leading in sport or the arts, or simply showing up for others when it counts.
Now is the time to put their name forward.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Civic Awards and Youth Excellence Awards, giving Horowhenua the chance to recognise the people whose mahi/work, generosity and achievements help our district thrive.
The awards celebrate those who contribute their time, energy and heart to community life – from long-serving volunteers and behind-the-scenes helpers, to inspiring rangatahi/youth leading the way in sport, arts and culture, academia and community service.
Mayor Bernie Wanden says the awards are an important reminder of the strength, kindness and talent found across Horowhenua.
“So much of what makes Horowhenua special happens because people choose to give their time, skills and aroha/love to others. They are often the ones working quietly in the background, but their impact is felt right across our towns, villages and communities. These awards are our way of saying we notice, we value you, and we are grateful.”
He says the Youth Excellence Awards also give the district a chance to champion young people who are already achieving at a high level.
“Our rangatahi/youth bring fresh ideas, determination and creativity to everything they do. Whether they are excelling in the classroom, on the field, on stage, or through service to others, they deserve to be encouraged and celebrated. These awards help show them that their community is behind them.”
The awards support the aims of Horowhenua District Council’s Community Wellbeing Strategy by helping to strengthen community pride, connection and belonging. By recognising the achievements of our people, we help create a district where everyone feels seen, valued and supported.
How to nominate
These awards are for the people who make a difference – the ones who give their time, lift others up, and help make Horowhenua feel like home.
Anyone can nominate. If you know a volunteer, young achiever, coach, teacher, committee member, neighbour or community group doing great things, now is your chance to recognise them.
A nomination only takes one person to start – and it could mean a great deal to someone who has spent years giving to others.
Nomination forms and full criteria are available online at:
If you need help with your nomination, call 06 366 0999 or email [email protected]
Who can be nominated?
Civic Awards
The Civic Awards honour individuals and/or volunteer groups who have made a significant, unpaid contribution to community life.
Nominees can be acknowledged in areas such as:
- Community, cultural or religious affairs
- Service to youth, recreation or education
- Service to conservation.
Youth Excellence Awards
Open to young people aged 12 to 24, these awards celebrate excellence in:
- Community service
- Academia
- Arts and culture
- Sport
Up to 16 scholarships of $500 will be awarded in 2026. Since the initiative began more than 20 years ago, more than 260 young people across Horowhenua have received Youth Excellence Awards.
“These scholarships can make a real difference, whether they help with study costs, travel to events, equipment, or the next step in a young person’s journey. It is a practical way to say: we believe in you,” Mayor Bernie says.
Previous nominees who were not selected are welcome to reapply.
Nominations close on Wednesday 9 September 2026 at 11:59pm.
Award recipients will be announced at a special ceremony on Thursday 19 November 2026.