Ten Southerners Named Semifinalists for 2026 Kiwibank Awards

Ten individuals from the South Island have been recognized as semifinalists in the 2026 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards. This prestigious award program, which highlights outstanding contributions to New Zealand, features a total of 70 semifinalists selected from thousands of nominations across the country.

The awards span seven categories, including the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, Go Media Young New Zealander of the Year, Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year, 2degrees New Zealand Innovator of the Year, New Zealand Sustainability Leader of the Year, Tower New Zealand Local Hero of the Year, and Mitre 10 New Zealand Community of the Year.

Notable Semifinalists from the South

Among the semifinalists is Rod Drury, a Queenstown-based businessman and founder of Xero, recognized in the New Zealander of the Year category. Although he stepped down as chief executive in 2018, Xero continues to play a significant role in New Zealand’s technology sector through ongoing innovation and mentorship.

Another semifinalist, Stewart Bull, is honored in the Senior New Zealander of the Year category for his dedication to kaitiakitanga and conservation. His efforts are instrumental in shaping a sustainable future for New Zealand, ensuring the preservation of its natural heritage. He joins distinguished individuals including Dame Lynley Dodd and Sir Graham Henry in this category.

The South Island is well-represented in the New Zealand Sustainability Leader of the Year category. Maria Kuster and Sean Ellis, founders of Pure Salt, lead Fiordland’s largest restoration initiative, focusing on pest eradication and habitat restoration to foster a thriving ecosystem at Tamatea/Dusky Sound. Additionally, Mike Casey of Otago is acknowledged for his role in advancing New Zealand’s transition to sustainable energy, driving discussions on climate justice and proving the profitability of green innovation.

Southlanders Russel and Teresa Trow have also been named semifinalists in the sustainability category for over 40 years of community-driven conservation efforts on Kundy Island, while Simon Millar, also from Otago, is recognized for his collaborative leadership in large-scale native reforestation projects.

Community Impact and Leadership

In the Local Hero of the Year category, Fauzia Bashir, a refugee advocate residing in Otago, is commended for her leadership and service to women and migrant communities in New Zealand. Her personal journey of overcoming loss and displacement has transformed into a commitment to empowering others.

Additionally, Megan Fairley, also from Otago, is highlighted for her initiative, Project Hope and Beyond, which has successfully raised over $100,000 for mental health and community projects across the country.

Steve Jurkovich, chief executive of Kiwibank, emphasized that the collective achievements of the semifinalists showcase a commitment to service, innovation, and environmental stewardship. He stated, “Their impact is felt in homes, workplaces, communities, and on the world stage.”

The announcement of the finalists is scheduled for February 26, 2026, with the winners to be celebrated at the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards in Auckland on March 19, 2026.