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COMMUNITY AWARDS
Western Bay Community Awards
Celebrating the people and organisations making a difference across the Western Bay of Plenty. The Community Awards recognise the mahi, commitment and contribution of those helping our communities thrive.
Awards Ceremony Evening
Thursday 18 March 2027 Holy Trinity Tauranga
Celebrating those making an impact at the heart of our region.
Throughout Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty, local community groups, projects, initiatives, events and individuals put in hours of work towards making a positive impact on the community.
These awards allow them to be recognised and acknowledged for all the work they do in making our region one of the greatest places to live.
The Western Bay Community Awards are a partnership of Manawa Trust, Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
Award Categories
Sustainable FutureProjects, initiatives or organisations taking practical action to protect and enhance the environment. Recognises innovative approaches that contribute to a more sustainable future for our community.
Diversity and InclusionGroups or initiatives creating opportunities for everyone to participate, belong and thrive. Celebrates those breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive and equitable community.
Heart of the CommunityA group whose dedication and commitment have made an extraordinary difference to the lives of others. Recognises those who bring people together and strengthen community wellbeing beyond their usual operations.
Youth SpiritAn inspiring young person (under 25) making a positive difference in their community. Celebrates leadership, service and a commitment to helping others.
Volunteer of the YearExceptional volunteer whose dedication, generosity and service have had a lasting impact on the community. Recognises those consistently going above and beyond for others.
Best CollaborationOrganisations and/or individuals working together to achieve a shared goal or create positive change. Celebrates the power of partnership, innovation and collective impact.
Who is eligible?
Any not-for-profit organisations or volunteers in the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty can be nominated.
Groups do not have to have received funding from any local funders to be nominated.
The awards are based on activities and impact made in the previous 12 months (1 September 2025 - 31 August 2026).
How to nominate?
Anyone can place a nomination.
Nominators do not need to be involved with the nominee but we do appreciate you telling the nominee you've nominated them.
Place nominations online by filling in a nomination form. You can self nominate or nominate multiple nominees.
More FAQs
What if I put my nomination in the wrong category?
If the judges see a nomination that fits the criteria of another category better, or has clearly been placed in the wrong category by mistake, they have the right to transfer it into another category.
How are the nominations judged?
The judging panel is made up of community representatives who judge the nominations and select finalists and winners using this criteria:
Impact on community - benefit of service/project on the wider community.
Innovation and creativity - utilises innovative ideas and new approaches.
Effectiveness of activities - success of service, achievement or objectives.
Use of resources - cost effectiveness, sustainability and volunteering involvement and commitment.
Collaboration - evidence of collaboration and partnerships.
What are the key dates?
Nominations open Monday 31 August to Friday 9 October 2026
Judging takes place in early November 2026
Finalists contacted and announced in early November 2026
Filming of Finalists takes place throughout late November to early December 2026
Online Showcase of Finalists begins early January 2027
People's Choice Award voting open Monday 15 February to Friday 5 March 2027
Awards Night is Thursday 18 March 2027 at Holy Trinity Tauranga
Can anyone attend the awards ceremony?
Yes, we welcome anyone who wants to celebrate and support the finalists at the Western Bay Community Awards ceremony evening. The awards are free to attend and free tickets will be available from 1 February 2027.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Contact the Manawa Trust team who manage the Western Bay Community Awards at info@manawatrust.nz or 07 578 5094.
KNOW OF A DESERVING NOMINEE?
Start with the FAQs
See the award categories, the eligibility criteria and how to put a nomination before the judges above in the FAQs.
Good to go, click the button to place your nomination.
NOT SURE WHERE A NOMINEE FITS?
Talk to our team
Not sure which category is right for your nominee? Talk to our team and we'll help point you in the right direction for award category and what details are good to include in your nominations.
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
The heartbeat behind a thriving Western Bay of Plenty.
NAVIGATION
WRITE TO US
The Kollective
DX Box HP40007
Tauranga 3112
VISIT US
The Kollective
145, 17th Avenue,
Tauranga
CONTACT
Phone us
07 578 5094
Email us
info@manawatrust.nz