Kaitaia GP Dr Lance O'Sullivan is among three finalists for the 2014 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Award, but the proud Northlander says while he doesn't do his job for awards, it's nice for the Far North to get some distinction.
The New Zealander of the Year and category winners will be named on February 26. The other two contenders for the top award from 250 nominations are Maori educator Dame Dr Iritana Tawhiwhirangi and CatWalk Spinal Cord Injury Trust founder and trustee Catriona Williams.
The trio was named yesterday ahead of seven other semifinalists including All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, top lawyer Mai Chen and former Christchurch mayor Sir Bob Parker.
Michael Munford, of Dargaville, was among the 10 semifinalists for the Metlifecare Senior New Zealander of the Year Award, but lost out when the three finalists were named.
Chief judge Cameron Bennett said Dr O'Sullivan, Dame Iritana and Ms Williams followed a tradition of great New Zealanders who had changed our country for the better. "They're people who are passionate about making things happen. They lead, innovate and change the way we think about things."