Papakura is powered by people who quietly give their time, energy and heart to make our community a better place.
From sports fields to community halls, arts spaces to local reserves, volunteers are putting in mahi everywhere around the neighbourhood, helping it thrive.
Now it’s time to celebrate them.
Each year, Papakura recognises those who go above and beyond for our community.
Papakura Local Board chair Kelvin Hieatt is grateful for all the local volunteers.
“It’s really important to acknowledge our community’s efforts and show how much we appreciate their dedication and hard work, says Chair Hieatt.
“As a volunteer myself, whose put thousands of hours into parks, communities and sports clubs, I see this as one of the best parts of my job. I look forward to seeing all the nominations and presenting our proudest with awards in the coming months.”
Nominations for the Papakura Volunteer Awards 2026 open on 13 April and close on 1 May 2026 – and the community is encouraged to put forward the people who inspire them.
Volunteers can be recognised across a wide range categories including:
- Long service award – honouring 20 years or more of dedicated service
- Arts – celebrating those who strengthen and enrich Papakura’s art scene
- Community service (local heroes) – the ‘good sorts’ who are always there with a helping hand
- Young person making a difference – recognising under 24-year-olds supporting their community or peers
- Culture – acknowledging leadership in preserving and celebrating culture and heritage
- Environment – recognising efforts that protect and enhance Papakura’s natural environment
- Sports – celebrating the behind-the-scenes champions who help clubs and teams succeed
One-off volunteers who have stepped up when it mattered most will also be acknowledged, including those involved in community planting days, park and reserve clean-ups and disaster response efforts during emergency and recovery periods.
Organisations may nominate up to five volunteers. Nominations can be emailed to papakuralocalboard@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
If you know someone whose kindness, commitment or leadership has a made a difference, remember to give them a shout out.
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