Humble community heroes step into the spotlight

Published: 25 September 2024

Last Updated: 8 November 2024

Volunteers who give their time, skill and energy to help others have been recognised for their commitment, passion and dedication to their community with Napier Civic Awards.

This year’s Civic Award recipients are Bruce Carnegie, Christine Batista (pictured), Colin Francis (posthumous), Dave Halliday, Dorothy and Denis Pilkington, Mike Bishop, Rachael Brownrigg and Sonya Aifai. Historian Patrick Parsons was recognised with The Meritorious Award. 

Mayor Kirsten Wise believes the annual event is an important way to honour people who make Napier a resilient, engaged and vibrant community. 

“The Civic Awards are our opportunity to pay tribute to individuals who give so much and ask so little in return. So often, these are people who fly under the radar, who don’t want praise, who believe in working hard for the good of everyone in their community. Through these awards we can give them the appreciation they deserve, as they stand as role models for the rest of us, and for those younger generations stepping up to take on volunteer and community-focused roles.” 

“There are countless people who go above and beyond for Napier, for our people and the places that make us special. They share what they know, support others and lead by example without expecting anything in return.” 

Nominations for the Civic Awards are called for in the first few months of every year, to recognise outstanding volunteers from the Napier community.

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