People's Choice voting for Pride of NZ has opened

Environment winner Shirley Sparks. Photo/Andrew Warner

The People's Choice voting phase of the Pride of New Zealand Awards has opened.

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.

The 24 finalists have been selected in six categories - Bravery & Heroism, Community Spirit, Emergency Services, Environment, Fundraiser of the Year, and Lifetime Achievement.

Te Puna Quarry Park founder Shirley Sparks is a finalist in the environment category.

Katikati Maori Warden Sue Tukaki is one of three finalists in the Lifetime Achievement award.

Voting for the TSB Bank's People's Choice Awards runs until Sunday, September 13 and the winner will be announced at the national award ceremony at the Auckland Museum on September 16.

The winners will receive $10,000 from TSB Bank for their cause.

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

To place a vote visit here: