Local heroes take centre stage in Community Awards
Army of Aunties, finalists in the Heart of the Community Award category took home the 2026 People’s Choice Award.
Nominations are now open for the 2027 Western Bay Community Awards, giving locals the chance to recognise the people, groups, projects and organisations helping Tauranga and the Western Bay thrive.
People and projects making a positive difference can be found throughout Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty. They may be volunteers supporting others, community groups strengthening neighbourhoods, young people stepping up as leaders, events that bring people together, or projects and partnerships creating lasting benefits for people and the environment.
Often, these contributions happen quietly and without recognition. The 2027 Western Bay Community Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the individuals, groups, events and projects that help our communities thrive and make the Western Bay a better place to live.
Anyone can submit a nomination in one of seven award categories by completing a quick online form before Friday 9 October 2026. If you know someone, a group, an event or a project that deserves to be recognised, now is the time to shine a spotlight on their contribution.
The seven award categories reflect the many ways people are contributing to local life:
- Community Event Award
- Sustainable Future Award
- Diversity and Inclusion Award
- Heart of the Community Award
- Youth Spirit Award
- Volunteer of the Year Award
- Best Collaboration Award
More than 30 local finalists will be selected by a judging panel of local representatives, with winners announced at the 2027 Western Bay Community Awards ceremony in March next year. The ceremony will also include the People’s Choice Award and a special Lifetime Service Award, recognising both the community’s favourite finalist and a dedicated individual for their long-standing service to the region.
The annual celebration is proudly delivered in partnership by TECT Community Trust, Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council. Together, the partners support the awards to recognise those whose everyday work helps strengthen communities across the region.
If you know a person, group, project or organisation going above and beyond for our communities, now is the time to put their name forward and help celebrate their contribution.
Nominations close Friday 9 October 2026.
Nominations and full information about the 2027 Western Bay Community Awards, including award category details are available at www.tect.org.nz/community-awards-2027/.
