Editorial: Unsung heroics in the frame

Maurice Doyle and Rhys Humphries have won a pride of New Zealand award.

Our region has some extraordinary people doing amazing things in the community.

Some of these community heroes were recognised last night at the Pride of New Zealand mid-North Island regional awards at our offices in Tauranga.

The Pride of New Zealand Awards aim to celebrate Kiwi volunteers, campaigners, fundraisers, caregivers and other heroic people who go above and beyond to help others. Kiwis who make the most positive, uplifting and inspiring contributions to their community.

The awards are supported by The New Zealand Herald and NZME regional media, including the Bay of Plenty Times and Rotorua Daily Post, The Hits radio station and major sponsor TSB Bank.

It was fantastic to see these unsung heroes who have selflessly given to others or devoted themselves to charities, causes or the environment to get the recognition they so richly deserve.

The finalists came from various towns and cities across the mid-North Island but they all have one thing in common: they inspire others by their example and putting the needs of others first. In doing so, they make the world a better place.

Their achievements give you pause for thought about your own life and what you could be doing to help others.

Congratulations to Maurice Doyle and Rhys Humphries, Avis Leeson, Billy Turner, Shirley Sparks, Sue Tukaki and Ryan and Keri Topperwien. They now progress to the national awards ceremony in Auckland next month.

Thank you too to the other finalists for their service. Your tireless work is much needed and appreciated.