Civic Honours – celebrate a life lived for others

Published on 08 May 2023

Photo of Mayor Vince Cocurullo in the mayoral robe and chains.

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 9 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 1 June 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 well-being 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:

  • Community involvement: include detail of the various voluntary works the nominee is, or has been involved in, the people they have helped or supported, the length of service, and the difference they have made.
  • Other awards received by the nominee.
  • Letters of reference from people or groups the nominee has assisted.
  • Any other information you think will assist the Selection Committee with their decision making.

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: Civic Honours

Email:  civichonours@wdc.govt.nz

Phone:  09 430 4200

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