OPINION

A Civic Honour is council’s highest possible award, given for outstanding voluntary service to the community.

Every year council honours up to four citizens for their contribution to our community, it’s a chance to acknowledge the humblest, most deserving citizens in our midst.

I have had the honour of participating in nine Civic Honours Awards evenings as a Whangārei District councillor, this will be my first as mayor, and it’s an absolute highlight in my calendar.

Although every ceremony has been unique and memorable, one that stands out in my mind is the 2020 Civic Honours ceremony, where Hikurangi resident Betty Hooper (then 101 years young) was nominated for this ultimate recognition by members of her community. This memory is especially poignant, as Betty passed away in March this year, at the age of 103.

Betty was known and loved for her enthusiasm, vitality and creativity. She gave her heart, mind and soul to working with children in health and education, and was particularly passionate about helping children with special learning needs. She will be remembered by many, and missed by all.

Nominations for the annual Civic Honours Awards close June 1 this year, and I urge you all to think of Whangārei residents who by their personal leadership, inspiration, sacrifice or devotion to a cause have made a significant contribution to the community wellbeing of the Whangārei District.

How can you nominate someone for a Civic Honour?

Firstly, you (and the person you’re nominating) must live in Whangārei District, and the nomination must be supported by at least two people. This could be two individuals, an organisation or group.

If a person is being nominated by an organisation or group, two executive members of that organisation or group should sign the nomination form. If you’re using the online nomination form, we won’t need signatures.

All nominations are confidential, and you can make a nomination online, by post, or in person.

What do we want to know about the nominee?

To help the selection committee in their decision-making process, include as much detail as possible:

If you need more information about making a nomination, I encourage you to get in touch with our team at council directly, they’d love to help.

Website: www.wdc.govt.nz/CivicHonours

Email: civichonours@wdc.govt.nz

Phone: 09 430 4200

Previous recipients

2022 Civic Honours

2021 Civic Honours

2020 Civic Honours

2019 Civic Honours

2018 Civic Honours

2017 Civic Honours

2016 Civic Honours

2015 Civic Honours

2014 Civic Honours

2013 Civic Honours

2012 Civic Honours

2011 Civic Honours

2010 Civic Honours

2009 Civic Honours

2008 Civic Honours

2007 Civic Honours

2006 Civic Honours

2005 Civic Honours

2004 Civic Honours

2003 Civic Honours

2002 Civic Honours

2001 Civic Honours

2000 Civic Honours

1999 Civic Honours

1998 Civic Honours

1997 Civic Honours

1996 Civic Honours

1995 Civic Honours

1994 Civic Honours

1993 Civic Honours

1992 Civic Honours

1989 Civic Honours

1988 Civic Honours

1987 Civic Honours