Wellington Awards recognise significant contribution of volunteers across the arts, recreation and sport

The Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards – Wellington City and the Pōneke Civic Awards have recognised individuals and groups dedicated to fostering inclusive dialogue and a deeper commitment to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi; promoting environmental awareness and marine conservation; a vital community hub; an inclusive platform that gives voice to Wellington’s diverse communities (especially those from refugee and migrant backgrounds); founders of an annual family-oriented community party; and an advocate for dedicated and safe cycling infrastructure.

The 2025 Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards – Wellington City recognised the vital work of the following volunteer community groups:

• Arts and culture: Voice of Aroha 

• Education & Child Development: Te Tiriti is Us

• Health and Wellbeing: Te Whare Hapori o ngā Puna Waiora Newtown Community Centre

• Heritage and Environment: Ghost Diving New Zealand

• Sports and Leisure: City Suburbs Women’s and Girls’ Cricket Community

• Rising Star: Kumutoto Stream Restoration Project

• Supreme Winner: Te Whare Hapori o ngā Puna Waiora Newtown Community Centre

Wellington International Airport Chief Executive Matt Clarke noted “these groups deserve recognition for the amazing and selfless work they do in the community.

“Congratulations to all finalists and winners, and best of luck for the Regional Community Awards finals later this year.”

Mayor Tory Whanau said the Newtown Community Centre deserved the prestigious title of Supreme Winner because its range of services, programmes, advice and support serve as a lifeline to many in the community.

Mayor Whanau advised “their wide range of services includes connecting people with local foodbanks, offering free computer and Internet access, running digital literacy classes, operating a tool library, giving free legal advice, and providing vegetable soups and donated food.”

The 2025 Pōneke Civic Awards honoured the following individuals for their significant contributions to the betterment of the city:

• Tracy Wellington – for her dedication to rescuing and redistributing surplus food and household goods to frontline agencies supporting those in need.

• Patrick Morgan – for his advocacy for safe and separated cycling infrastructure and for encouraging more people to cycle as a means of transport.

• Penny Sturgess – for her dedication to the Wellington community, demonstrated by her immediate support for Loafers Lodge fire victims, her efforts with Take10 to ensure nightlife safety, and her contributions to initiatives like the Wellington City Mission Christmas Drive – Pack the Bus and Newtown Residents’ Association.

• Martin Hanley and Anna Kemble-Welch – for founding the annual Newtown Festival, a family-oriented community party that has become a must-experience event in Wellington’s summer calendar since 1997.

Mayor Whanau added “the recipients of the 2025 Pōneke Civic Awards demonstrate the very best of Wellington’s community spirit.

“They are the unsung heroes who drive positive change and enrich our communities. Their passion, generosity, and commitment to our city are an inspiration.”

Every year, Wellington Airport partners with the five local councils – Wellington City, Porirua, Kapiti, Hutt City, and Upper Hutt – to recognise the vital work of community groups and volunteers. Regional winners compete for the overall category awards and the prestigious title of Supreme Winner, announced at an annual celebration dinner.

The Pōneke Civic Awards, formerly known as the Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian Awards, were established in 1986 to recognise Wellingtonians who have given significant voluntary service in the areas of community service or welfare, sport, culture, the arts, recreation, and education.

Image. Award recipients. Credit Wellington Council