Nominations Open to Recognise Manawatū’s Unsung Heroes
Across the Manawatū District, there are people whose quiet dedication leaves a lasting mark on the lives of others. Now in its 36th year, Manawatū District Council’s Community Honours Awards celebrate those who voluntarily give their time, energy and care to support others and their community. Nominations are now open until 5:00pm on Friday 31 July 2026.
Manawatū District Council’s Community Honours is a distinctive and prestigious award that recognises people across our District who make an outstanding contribution through voluntary service. Their impact may be seen in many ways, it might be youth work, environmental protection, cooking, sharing knowledge, offering a shoulder to lean on, turning up to every working bee, keeping things ticking behind the scenes, lending a hand whenever it is needed, or simply being there for others when it matters most – just to name a few examples. These acts of service may be quiet and humble, but their impact is long lasting.
In 2025, Community Honours Awards were presented to Albert James, Craig Osman, Nigel Ramsden, Steve and Mary Bielski, Tony Waugh and Tyson Schmidt. As dedicated custodians of their communities, each recipient has made a lasting contribution through years of service, care and dedication to those around them.
Now is the time to nominate those in the Manawatū District who deserve to be celebrated for the 2026 Community Honours Awards. When completing a nomination, please include as much information as possible. Written testimonials, websites, articles, photos and other examples of the nominee’s work, achievements and impact in the community are valuable supporting material.
Nominations are open until 5:00pm on Friday 31 July 2026. To access the nomination form and learn more, visit: Community Honours | Manawatū District Council