For those who go far beyond the call

Kehu "Jack" Thompson

A unique awards ceremony recognising untiring efforts by volunteers, resourced mainly by just their own experiences and the commitment of those around them, was held for possibly the last time yesterday.

But it was clear the work recognised by the Pilot City Awards, presented by Napier Mayor Bill Dalton in his council chambers, will go on.

Leading the way was Pukemokimoki Marae kaumatua Kehu (Jack) Thompson, whose citation was read by his grand-daughter, after which he told the audience it was "quite humbling," and added, pointing to the ground, that he would keep doing what he did "until they put me down".

But Mr Dalton saw no need for the humility of the recipients, saying they should be proud of their achievements and the efforts they have made "to improve the lives of all citizens."

Watched by more than 60 family members and friends, the recipients each listened to citations detailing their efforts, invariably from backgrounds of personal hardship and ordeal.

Sonny King, who once could never see himself in such a role, didn't so much use the word, "humble", as enshrine it in the way he reeled off the organisations and people he sees doing the work "out of necessity" in the community of Maraenui.

"I am grateful for all the groups coming together," he said.

He listed Tu Tangata (born out of the housing crisis), Maraenui Food Donations, Roopu a Iwi, The Koha Shed, Nga Raukura o Maraenui, Maori Wardens ("filling in the gaps"), Maraenui Motivators, and individuals such as Pilot City Trust backbone Pat Magill, city councillor Maxine Boag, the late Mohi Tamati, and Mike Kemp, the Sport Hawke's Bay kaimahi hakinakina, who seemed to recognise a talent Mr King never knew he had, and encouraged him to use it.

The humble Mr King said it was "a big thank you" to those "who accept our group in their lives, in their space, and allow us to walk into their lives and say: Here's something that may help you."

Restorative Justice worker Helen Nesbit was one recognised for going beyond the call of duty, but also said: "It's really humbling."