The Stone Soup group that has transformed the lives of people living in 18 Gonville streets is the supreme winner of the Trustpower Energy Direct Whanganui District Community Awards, Trustpower community relations co-ordinator Suzi Luff has announced.
The group holds gatherings at Lorenzdale Park every two months, with food, talk, sport, games, displays and giveaways. It also trains residents in restorative practices and supports them into gardening for themselves.
The 60 volunteers are restoring a sense of pride to the suburb, Ms Luff said.
"This programme is doing a wonderful job of building community spirit, leading to greater wellbeing for tamariki, rangatahi and whanau."
The group got a certificate, trophy and $1500 at the awards ceremony at the Wanganui War Memorial Centre last night. It goes on to the national finals in Wellington in March next year.