The Tauhara Community Support Initiative has won the Supreme Award at the 2014 Trustpower Taupo District Community Awards.
The awards were presented last night at a function at the Great Lake Centre.
For winning the Supreme Award the Tauhara Community Support Initiative received a framed certificate, a trophy and $1500.
Tauhara Community Support Initiative now has the opportunity to represent the district at the 2014 Trustpower National Community Awards, being held in Wellington in March next year.
The Tauhara Community Support Initiative, and all category winners, also received a $500 radio advertising voucher from The Radio Network Taupo allowing groups to profile their work.
Trustpower Community Relations representative Kathlene Cook said Tauhara Community Support Initiative was an incredible example of people being the change they wanted to see in their community.
"This initiative developed by listening and working alongside community members to create a positive, supportive and vibrant community in Tauhara.
"The initiative has grown from the perception that Tauhara is an 'at risk' community and has since taken on a life of its own - set to improve and connect the community."
Ms Cook said a "uniquely positive Tauhara" is now on the way to becoming an area where community members feel empowered to make the change they want to see and to become re-engaged.
"The initiative also involves many other charitable groups who are all working together to make positive change.
"Each new project gives community members the chance to take their community back. From small primary-aged children to the older generation who have watched the community drift away, the Tauhara Community Support Initiative is re-engaging the people," she said.
Award winners
Heritage and Environment: "Fetch" - the Taupo SPCA Op Shop
Health and Well Being: Taupo Women's Institute
Arts and Culture: Taupo Citizens Silver Band
Sport and Leisure: Taupo Mountain Bike Club
Education and Child/Youth Development: Youth in Emergency Services
Youth Community Spirit: Bailey Dudley-Russell
Supreme Winner: Tauhara Community Support Initiative