Wakatipu shows its Spirit
Queenstown's community heroes were honoured at the Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards last Saturday night.
The 14 awards recognised achievements across various categories, from environmental advocates to business leaders and volunteers
Five Heart of the Wakatipu Mayoral Awards were also presented to local champions Charlie Phillips, Nanette Bennington, Vanessa van Uden, Craig 'Ferg' Ferguson, and Ken McIntyre.
“I was very surprised by this award but grateful for being recognised for my efforts," Queenstown Resort College CEO Phillips says.
"QRC directors Mark Taylor and the late Sir Eion Edgar always encouraged community contribution - allowing me to become involved. I would like to congratulate the Wakatipu Community Foundation for hosting this event. It’s so refreshing to reflect on the positive impacts and selfless contribution made by our residents."
Queenstown Resort College CEO Phillips. Photo: Still Vision
The People’s Choice Award was won by Jamie and Chris Seymour, who created Queenstown Parkrun.
Steve Brent, Chair of the Wakatipu Community Foundation, says: "The Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards are a testament to the resilience, innovation, and generosity of our community.
"Each winner represents the very best of Wakatipu, and we are incredibly proud to honour them tonight. Our theme this year was dream big, and we challenge everyone to consider their dream for our community and what their legacy might be."
The major sponsor was Gibbston Valley.
Here are all the 2024 winners:
EDUCATION: Sponsored by Jarden
Recognising those making outstanding contributions to learning in the Wakatipu
Trevor and Agnieszka Gile – Liger Leadership Academy
HEALTH & WELL-BEING: Sponsored by Findex
Recognising contributions to the health and wellbeing of our community
Debbie Swain-Rewi – Glenorchy Community Trust
SPORT & RECREATION: Sponsored by Deloitte
Recognising those committed and dedicated to enriching the lives of those in the Wakatipu through sport and active recreation
Queenstown Mountain Bike Club
ARTS & CULTURE: Sponsored by Sky City
Recognising those who make a significant contribution to the arts and culture in our community
Emma Wilson - Turn up the Music
RESILIENCE: Sponsored by PowerNet
Recognising those who care and those who come to our aid whenever the call is made
Ed Halson - LandSAR
SENIOR SUPPORT: Sponsored by Eichardt’s
Recognising those individuals, groups and organisations making a positive difference in the lives of the Wakatipu’s seniors
QLDC - Leisurely Programme
YOUTH IMPACT: Sponsored by Walker & Co
Recognising contributions to youth services
Whakatipu Youth Trust
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
Recognising contributions to environment
Chris Dagg – Environmental Stewardship
SOCIAL IMPACT INNOVATOR: Sponsored by Duncan Cotterill
Recognising contributions to growing giving and social impact
Julia Strelou – Inspirational Women's Awards
CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP: Sponsored by Brannigans
Recognising organisations dedicated to making the Wakatipu a smarter, safer, healthier and more sustainable place
Mountain Club
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Sponsored by Queenstown Airport Corporation
Recognising community champions who exemplify serving community before self
Inner Wheel Club of Queenstown
RISING STAR (Under 25): Sponsored by Mountain Club
Recognising youth (under 25yr) making positive change in the Wakatipu
Girls Who Grow – Wakatipu High School Ellie Kerr, Lucy Boniface, Lucy Thompson, Manuella Sanches Pedrosa
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD: Sponsored by Mountain Scene
Jamie and Chris Seymour – Queenstown Parkrun
HEART OF THE WAKATIPU AWARDS: Sponsored by QLDC
Charlie Phillips
Craig 'Ferg' Ferguson
Ken McIntrye
Nanette Bennington
Vanessa van Uden
