Western Bay Community Awards 2026
The 2026 Western Bay Community Awards brought together the people, organisations, and initiatives that quietly shape life across Tauranga and the wider Western Bay of Plenty.
Held on Thursday 19 March at Holy Trinity Tauranga, the evening was a celebration of community spirit, recognising those who go above and beyond to support others, strengthen connections, and make a lasting impact across the region.
More than 100 nominations were received for this year’s awards, with 33 finalists selected across a range of categories. Each finalist represented a different part of the community, from grassroots initiatives and environmental projects to youth leaders, volunteers, and collaborative partnerships. Together, they painted a picture of a region driven by generosity, care, and a shared commitment to helping others.
Our 2026 Award Winners are:
- Community Event Award - 100th Katikati A & P Show
- Heart of the Community Award - Hunt for Good
- Diversity & Inclusion Award - Spectrum Connections
- Sustainable Future Award - Rotoehu Ecological Trust
- Youth Spirit Award - Spencer McNeil
- Volunteer of the Year Award - Jason Rive
- Best Collaboration Award - Live Well Waihi Beach & Waihi Beach Surf Lifesaving Club
- People's Choice Award - Army of Aunties
- Lifetime Service Award - Bill Webb
In the lead-up to the awards night, each finalist was profiled through a series of short videos, giving the community a chance to learn more about their work and the impact they’re making. This storytelling element has become a key part of the awards, helping to bring visibility to the people and organisations behind the scenes. The public was also invited to take part through the People’s Choice Award, offering a way for the community to directly support and recognise the finalist who resonated most with them.
On the night itself, the atmosphere was both uplifting and reflective. Through film, storytelling, and on-stage recognition, the audience was given a deeper insight into the mahi happening across the Western Bay. Nine winners were announced, each recognised for their significant contribution to the not-for-profit sector and the wider community. From long-standing service through to innovative collaboration and youth leadership, the awards highlighted the many different ways people are making a difference.
The awards are made possible through a partnership between TECT, Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council. Together, these organisations share a commitment to supporting the for-purpose sector and celebrating the people who are helping to build stronger, more connected communities.
The Western Bay Community Awards serve as a reminder of the impact individuals and organisations can have when they show up for their community. They create a space to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the often unseen work that helps communities thrive, and in doing so, inspire others to get involved.
At its heart, the evening is about recognising that strong communities don’t happen by chance. They’re built by people, people who care, who contribute, and who continue to show up, day after day, to make the Western Bay a better place for everyone.