2025 Annual Volunteer Awards
During National Volunteer Week, Volunteering Waikato – Te Ohu Tuuao o Waikato proudly celebrated the 2025 Annual Volunteer Awards. This annual event is all about recognising the incredible people and groups who give so much to strengthen our communities.
With a record number of nominations this year, we’re blown away by the stories of kindness, commitment, and dedication. Thank you to every volunteer, and congratulations to all our nominees, winners, and runnerups—you make our communities better every day!
Event Award Sponsored by the New Zealand National Fieldays Society
Winner
Margaret Cameron
New Zealand National Fieldays Society
Margaret’s 16 years with NZ National Fieldays Society showcase her calm leadership, dedication, and strong support for all volunteers.
Runner Up
Max Krotov
Project Management Institute
Max led the first Hamilton Project Management Day of Service, connecting project managers with local nonprofits.
Governance Award Sponsored by Taka and Ngarui Wihongi
Winner
Annie Muggeridge
ROC Trust
Annie’s collaborative leadership at ROC Trust drove successful rebranding, strengthened board culture, and fostered inclusivity and mentorship.
Runner Up
Priya Kurian
Shama Ethnic Women’s Trust
Priya’s 20+ years as founder and trustee of Shama highlight her exceptional leadership, strategic guidance, and commitment to empowering women.
Youth Award sponsored by My Kaitiaki Media
Winner
Keira Hayidakis
Cancer Society Waikato/BOP
Volunteering as an Accommodation Host, leading fundraising events and inspiring her peers, Keira shows that young people can make a powerful difference.
Runner Up
Liam Carter
HCC, Bike Hamilton
Liams proactive spirit and can-do attitude shine in river clean-ups and promoting inclusive cycling, inspiring all ages, driving positive and lasting community change.
Unsung Hero Award – Sponsored by First Credit Union
Winner
Lois Ure
Interlock NZ
Lois is the steady heartbeat of Interlocknz, nurturing volunteers and creating resources that provide a safe space for people with disabilities.
Runner Up
Dianne Arnold
Dress for Success Hamilton
Dianne dedicates her lunch breaks to steaming and sorting clothing, setting up and packing down sale events, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Individual Award – Hamilton
Winner
Dave Evans
Hamilton City Cadet Unit
David genuinely cares for the young people he supports, creating opportunities that build their confidence and make a meaningful, lasting difference in their lives.
Runner Up
Cláudia Ivanocko
Insight Endometriosis
Cláudia volunteers as a translator and service navigator, improving access to health information and support. Her empathy, reliability, and initiative make a real difference.
Individual Award – Regional
Winner
Greg Townsend
Haakarimata Restoration Group
Through pest control, planting natives, and partnerships, Greg has restored 2,000 hectares and laid the foundation for taonga species’ return on the Haakarimata ranges.
Runner Up
Horahaeare Scott
Te Taiao o Kāwhia Moana
For decades, Horahaere has led beach protection, community planting, and inspired action, blending cultural wisdom and a fierce love for the land.
Long Service – Sponsored by Craigs Investment Partners
Winner
Paul Burroughs
Stroke Foundation Hamilton
Volunteering for 32 years, Paul’s resilience, tireless commitment, and reliability make him the backbone of the Stroke Foundation.
Runner Up
Hazel Robertson
Cancer Society Waikato/BOP
Hazel’s 35+ years volunteering as a Transport to Treatment driver and Daffodil Day coordinator show her compassion, reliability, and deep commitment.
Team Award Sponsored by Sky City
Winner
Shed Volunteers
Kids in Need Waikato
With warmth, precision, and deep commitment, the team help prepare over 1700 care packs for children entering care throughout the Waikato.
Runner Up
Maryanne & Jimmy Tainui
Rauawaawa Kaumātua Charitable Trust
Embodying Kotahitanga through their humble, tireless commitment to Kotahitanga Day Programme, they create joyful and inclusive spaces that uplift Kaumātua.