Nominations for the 2025 Volunteering Waikato - Te Ohu Tuuao O Waikato Annual Volunteer Awards are now open!!
In 2025, we are excited to once again host the Volunteering Waikato Annual Volunteer Awards, celebrating the incredible contributions of volunteers across the Waikato region. This year we have eight award categories. These awards recognise the dedication, passion, and impact of individuals and teams who make a difference in our communities. Each categories has it's own seperate nomination form so please make sure you are completing the correct one.
Nominations close Friday 2nd of May 2025 at 5pm
Please contact Lydia (projects@volunteeringwaikato.org.nz) with any questions.
Individual Award – Hamilton
https://form.jotform.com/250498354565871
This award celebrates a volunteer who gives their time, energy, and passion to the people around them – specifically within Hamilton.
It recognises someone who has made a meaningful impact by supporting and uplifting others, showing genuine care for individuals, groups, and communities they serve. This category honours volunteers from across diverse sectors, including environmental, health and wellbeing, people groups, and ethnicities, acknowledging the broad and inclusive nature of their contributions. The Hamilton area is based on the City Council boundaries.**
Individual Award – Regional
https://form.jotform.com/250498589470876
This award recognises a volunteer who has made a significant difference in the Waikato region (excluding Hamilton).
It celebrates those who go above and beyond to support their communities. In many of our regional towns, volunteering is the heartbeat of the community. Volunteers give countless hours to help others, and we want to honour their dedication and the invaluable contributions they make to strengthening and uplifting their local areas.
Team Award
https://form.jotform.com/250497584767879
This award recognises the collective effort of a volunteer team and their impact on the communities they serve. When individuals come together with shared purpose and dedication, great things can be achieved. This award celebrates the commitment, collaboration, and positive outcomes that result from the teamwork and joint efforts of volunteers working towards a common goal.
Long Service - Sponsored by Craigs Investment Partners
https://form.jotform.com/250497642860868
This award honours a volunteer who has made a significant and lasting contribution to their community over a lifetime. With at least 15 years of volunteer work in the Waikato region, this individual has dedicated their time, skills, and passion to one or more organisations, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those around them and the causes they support.
Youth Award
https://form.jotform.com/250346560140851
Young people are the future of the Waikato – and they bring so much to our communities. This award celebrates someone aged 24 or under who has shown a genuine commitment to volunteering. Whether they've given their time, shared innovative ideas, or used their skills to make a difference, this award is all about recognising their impact and the passion they bring to helping others.
Event Award - Sponsored by the New Zealand National Fieldays Society
https://form.jotform.com/250497650023858
This award recognises an individual who made a significant contribution to a successful event in 2024 within the Waikato region. Whether through offering their time or skills to help organise or support the seamless delivery of an event, their dedication underscores the essential role volunteers play in bringing events to life and creating memorable experiences for all involved.
Governance Award
https://form.jotform.com/250498174856874
Good governance is the backbone of any organisation. Often, governing boards are made up of volunteers who bring sound, objective decision-making to the table. This award recognises and celebrates the leadership, commitment, and hard work of someone who volunteers in a governance role – helping to guide and grow their organisation.
Unsung hero Award - Sponsored by First Credit Union
https://form.jotform.com/250498142879874
This award recognises a behind-the-scenes volunteer whose efforts might go unnoticed but are truly invaluable. They’re the quiet achievers – the ones who step up without seeking recognition, consistently giving their time, energy, and skills to support others.
Whether it’s organising logistics, lending a hand with the less glamorous tasks, or being the reliable person everyone can count on, this award celebrates the dedication and heart of those who make a big impact from the background.
