Council is this week considering the establishment of Nelsonian Civic Awards to recognise people who have given our city outstanding service.
The proposal is for the awards to be focused on voluntary and philanthropic service in areas such as sport, art, environment, education, heritage, commerce and community wellbeing. These awards are intended for those who have given exceptional service to the city by length of time or significance of contribution. They are to acknowledge people who have enhanced our city and the lives of others.
Nelson has an enviable record for voluntary work and generosity. Census data shows Nelsonians do more volunteering than other New Zealanders. We also donate more to charities. I meet people all the time who have for decades given extraordinary service to our city. We can do better in how we recognise them and say thank you.
Many councils have civic awards. They complement Royal Honours that recognise contributions to the nation. Nelson previously had various forms of civic awards; the latest fell into abeyance through Covid. The process had become excessively bureaucratic and the award ceremonies a bit tired. We want to minimise the cost and maximise the recognition.
It is proposed that a Nelsonian Civic Award will be granted by Council about four times a year at our regular Council meetings. Family, friends and those who have worked with the recipient would be invited to join us for the presentation.
The proposal is that members of the public will be able to suggest recipients and each Elected Member will have the opportunity to make one nomination over the three-year term.
It is suggested these awards are for individuals rather than organisations, the recipients can be of any age and the award can be granted up to 12 months after death. It is intended that most will be Nelson residents, but others may be considered if they have made an outstanding contribution to our city.
Nelson has a stunning climate, awesome beaches and parks, good infrastructure and diverse businesses but what really makes our city is its friendliness and community spirit. This proposal is about Council better recognising those who give our city soul and character.
