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by Jennifer Belmont - CE, 45South Community Foundation

What is it that makes the Whakatipu such a special place to live?

The mountains and lakes may be what people first notice, but those of us who live here know that a community is about much more than the scenery. It’s about the people who show up and pitch in to make life better for others.

Across the Whakatipu, hundreds of people contribute their time, skills, energy and resources to our community every day. They coach our kids, serve on committees, deliver meals, protect our environment, support people through difficult times, organise events, raise funds and create opportunities for others.

Our local charities and community organisations work tirelessly across areas including youth, housing, health, conservation, arts, sport, food security and social services. Many are powered by volunteers who give hours of their time because they care about this place.

Our businesses also play a role. Local companies sponsor teams and events, support charities, encourage staff to volunteer, donate goods and services, make donations, and find ways to give back to the community that supports them.

And then there are the individuals whose contribution may never appear in an annual report or make the headlines. The neighbour who is always there when someone needs help. The volunteer who has quietly gives their time. The person who sees something that needs doing and simply gets on with it.

These are the people, groups, organisations and businesses that embody the Spirit of the Wakatipu.

The Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards were created to recognise and celebrate these contributions. We believe it’s important to acknowledge just how much our community relies on people being willing to do that little bit - or a lot - extra.

45South Community Foundation is again inviting nominations for the Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards.

We want to hear about the people and organisations you think deserve to be recognised. They might be well known, or someone whose contribution is largely unseen outside a small circle. What matters is the difference they make.

In a growing and changing district like ours, a strong community doesn’t happen by accident. It is created every day through thousands of acts of generosity, kindness and participation.

Who do you know who goes that extra step?

Nominate them for a Spirit of the Wakatipu Award at www.45south.org and help us celebrate the people who make this place not just somewhere extraordinary to live, but a community. Nominations close 31 August and will be awarded at the Spirit of the Wakatipu Gala on Saturday 17th October.