02 September 2016

Volunteers celebrated at awards ceremony

Last night three incredible volunteers were recognised at the Hutt City Council Civic Awards for their outstanding voluntary service to the community.

Lower Hutt Mayor Ray Wallace says, “Volunteers like our award winners make Lower Hutt a great place to live, work and play. It is one of my privileges as Mayor to be able to thank people for such outstanding service on behalf of our communities.”

Lorraine (Missy) Awatere has worked as a Māori Warden in Wainuiomata for the last twenty years. She received a Civic Honours Award for Community Service, Cultural Affairs and Youth Activities.

Missy is always willing to help others in her community, including neighbours and friends. She works late at night in the rain and cold on the Hutt Valley Flyer bus service making sure that everybody is safe. She shows Mana and fearlessness in her role, and has helped reduce pilfering at local shops. She keeps an eye out for vulnerable children.

Missy goes above and beyond her call of duty for the Wainuiomata community. She has a good rapport with the whole community and is on a first name basis with agencies, organisations and the wider community.

A nominator said, “She has a heart of gold, not young in her years, but carries a wealth of knowledge, and handles all situations head on. Quietly, she also supports neighbours by helping them with their shopping, sometimes dipping into her own pocket and helping prepare meals from time to time.”

Joanne Ruawai-Hawira received a Civic Honours Award for Community Service, Cultural Affairs, Educational Service and Youth Activities.

Joanne’s voluntary service to the Wainuiomata community has been over many years. She has expertise in all things Māori, a passion for the wellbeing and promotion of Wainuiomata High School students and her calm demeanour enables the very best from the students. She works countless hours supporting and ensuring the success of youth in Wainuiomata and is an inspiration to those around her. She’s active in multiple organisations including Wainuiomata High School, Kōhanga Te Ngahere and Wainuiomata Marae. She’s also active in the Kōhanga Reo movement in the revitalisation of Māori Language

Alex Bengree has been a member of Hutt City’s Youth Council – Youth Infusion for the past 10 years. She received a Civic Honours Award for Youth Services.

She has led her peers to advocate and contribute to actions and developments that ensure the “youth voice” is heard and recognised throughout Council and the communities it serves. She is a strong member of the community law centre ensuring young people know their rights.

Alex participates in the Hutt City Youth Workers Network, providing a youth perspective. She is well respected by Councillors and Council leadership and brings a level of wisdom, spirit and analysis to many youth issues. She engages effectively at all levels of leadership with maturity, respect and honesty.

ENDS

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