Nominations have now closed
Once judging has taken place in November, we will add updates here announcing our Semi-Finalists
Creating a legacy for tomorrow
The New Zealander of the Year Awards Ngā Tohu Pou Kōhure o Aotearoa celebrate and honours those who use their passion to make our country a better place. The Awards recognise a diverse range of Kiwi making a difference - they’re the pillars of our communities, the environmental warriors, our volunteers, our leaders, our innovators.
The Awards give us the opportunity and platform to gather around and celebrate remarkable Kiwi from every walk of life – those that inspire, lead and give. So please nominate deserving Kiwis that you know, that make a difference in your community.
“It is an honour for us to support the Senior New Zealander of the Year award Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau. This award provides a fantastic opportunity to highlight that there are countless older New Zealanders working to improve their communities with huge passion, commitment and dedication. We are proud to do our bit to recognise their efforts and thank them for the inspiration they provide.”
NAOMI JAMES
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, RYMAN HEALTHCARE
Elizabeth Ellis wins Senior New Zealander of the Year 2025
A distinguished Māori artist, Elizabeth Ellis CNZM JP, has been named the 2025 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
A graduate of Elam School of Fine Arts, Elizabeth has worked to champion Māori artistic expression both nationally and internationally over several decades.
Bob Francis wins Senior New Zealander of the Year 2024
Seven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial development, the arts, aviation, homelessness, conservation and sports.
10 minutes with Sir Mark Dunajtschik
Your Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year 2023 Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau is Sir Mark Dunajtschik.
Having received a Knighthood and numerous other business awards throughout his long career, Mark is a humble yet driven man whose goal has been to help others and give back.
