PRIDE AWARDS

Entries for the annual Pride of New Zealand Awards, honouring extraordinary Kiwis making a significant difference in their communities, are about to open. Building on the success from the 2014 inaugural awards, where over 700 individuals were nominated for their extraordinary personal sacrifices to help, save and care for others and their environment.

TSB Bank is again the major sponsor along with NZME's The New Zealand Herald and radio station The Hits.

Kevin Murphy, CEO of TSB Bank says the partnership is a perfect fit for the 100% New Zealand owned and independent bank, which adopts a culture of 'putting people first.'

"All Kiwi communities are built on a foundation of great people - people who put others first and go out of their way to make this a better place to live. Wanting to help your neighbour is just part of our national spirit. So we're proud to again support this initiative which recognises and celebrates these 'everyday' heroes in our local communities.

"Last year's Awards were an incredible and humbling experience - we're really looking forward to meeting more of these inspirational New Zealanders in 2015," said Murphy.

Chief Executive of NZME, Jane Hastings says, "There are thousands of people, who on a daily basis are working tirelessly and selflessly to help others and the environment. The Pride of New Zealand Awards shines a spotlight on everyday people who choose to make a difference. Remarkable people who accomplish exceptional things and should be commended on their significant contribution."

Award nominations open on 4 May until 14 June 2015 with regional award ceremonies taking place in August, followed by the prestigious national Pride of New Zealand Awards ceremony in September.

There will be six award categories, including honouring acts of bravery or heroism, community spirit, fundraising efforts and those involved with emergency services. New Zealanders of any age are eligible to be nominated, with no age restriction.

The Herald will share their stories of Kiwi greatness, and throughout NZME media nationwide. Members of the public will once again be given a chance to vote for the TSB Bank People's Choice Award.

The national award ceremony will be held on the evening of 16 September.

Yealands Wines have committed to be an official event partner for 2015.

Visit www.prideofnzawards.co.nz for further details. The Pride of New Zealand Awards can also be found on Facebook: PrideOfNZAwards and Twitter: @PrideOfNZ with people encouraged to Tweet using #prideofnz and #prideofnzawards.