Nominations open for the 2027 Western Bay Community Awards
Across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty, countless people give their time, energy and care to make life better for others.
They are the volunteers who turn up week after week, the young people stepping forward as leaders, the organisations supporting local whānau, and the events and projects that bring people together. Much of this work happens quietly, without recognition, but its impact can be felt throughout our communities.
The 2027 Western Bay Community Awards are an opportunity to bring that contribution into the spotlight and celebrate the people, groups and initiatives helping our region thrive.
Nominations are now open and will close on Friday 9 October 2026.
Seven ways to recognise community impact
Anyone can submit a nomination across seven award categories:
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Community Event Award – recognising a community-led event that created memorable experiences, strengthened connections and made a positive local impact.
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Sustainable Future Award – celebrating projects and practices that protect and enhance the environment or contribute to a more sustainable future.
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Diversity and Inclusion Award – recognising work that breaks down barriers and helps create a community where everyone feels valued and respected.
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Heart of the Community Award – celebrating a group whose dedication and service have made an extraordinary difference to others.
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Youth Spirit Award – recognising an inspiring person under 25 who is making a positive contribution and demonstrating community leadership.
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Volunteer of the Year Award – honouring an exceptional volunteer whose generosity and commitment have had a profound impact.
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Best Collaboration Award – celebrating organisations or individuals who have joined forces to create meaningful and lasting change.
A People’s Choice Award will also give the public an opportunity to support their favourite finalist in February 2027. A special Lifetime Service Award will be selected from the Volunteer of the Year finalists and presented at the awards ceremony.
Who can be nominated?
Any not-for-profit organisation or volunteer working in Tauranga or the Western Bay of Plenty can be nominated. Groups do not need to have received funding from one of the awards partners to be eligible.
The awards recognise activities undertaken during the 12 months from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2026. Anyone can put forward a nomination, and you do not need to be directly associated with the person or organisation you are nominating. Nominators are simply asked to let their nominee know that their name has been submitted.
Celebrating the people who strengthen our communities
Acorn Foundation is proud to once again deliver the Western Bay Community Awards in partnership with TECT, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
Together, we want to recognise the people and organisations whose everyday efforts create stronger, more caring and better-connected communities. More than 30 finalists will be selected by a panel of local representatives. The winners will be announced at the Western Bay Community Awards ceremony at Holy Trinity Tauranga on Thursday 18 March 2027.
But first, we need our community’s help to find them.
Think about the people, groups, events and projects you have encountered over the past year. Who has gone above and beyond? Who has brought people together, offered care or leadership, protected our environment or created positive change?
A nomination is a simple but powerful way to say: we see what you are doing, and it matters.
Nominations close on Friday 9 October 2026.
Learn more and submit a nomination for the 2027 Western Bay Community Awards.