Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Clutha District Council Community Awards that celebrate the wonderful individuals and groups who make a positive difference in Clutha’s communities.
The Kaka Point Community Group won the Supreme Award, which was announced at the award’s ceremony at the Kaitangata Community Centre on 18 June 2026.
The group was honoured for its commitment, generosity and a shared love for their community, and for the work deliver outstanding new toilets and changing rooms at Kaka Point.
It was also the recipient of the Recreational and Leisure Award.
Mayor Jason (Jock) Martin says the awards are a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible passion and dedication community members demonstrate every day.
“We are lucky to have so many champions among us. People who drive projects, inspire others, and create positive change that benefits us all.”
“I encourage everyone to come together to honour the remarkable individuals and groups that make Clutha such a vibrant and caring place. Their contributions inspire future generations to carry the torch of community service,” Mayor Martin says.
Awards organiser Sonia Farquharson thanked everyone who took the time to put forward nominations saying the standard of recipients was incredibly high.
“As a council we are very proud to support the awards that highlight the meaningful work that is taking place across the district,” Sonia says.
A total of eight individual awards were also presented on the night.
The awards recognising groups, individuals, and year 13 students in the community who have demonstrated great mahi volunteer work.
Winning recipients in each of the Community Group areas receive $1,000, Youth Spirit, $750, and Merit Prizes $350 while the Supreme Winner receives an additional $2,000.
2026 Results:
Supreme Award: Kaka Point Community Group.
Health & Wellbeing Award: Knit and Yarn. A small but mighty group spreading warmth, comfort, and care through every stitch. Since 2009, these dedicated knitters have created handmade garments for babies and young children, supporting hospitals in Auckland and Invercargill, and previously reaching children overseas, including in Ukraine.
Recreational and Leisure Award: Kaka Point Community Group for recognition of their outstanding community work, and their dedication to improving local facilities for residents, visitors, and the wider South Otago community. The group is made up of Lisa Biginato, Tony Somerville, Ken Stephens, Neil Belvoir, and Deborah Whyte. Together, they have given the equivalent of four years of their time to help deliver the wonderful new toilets and changing rooms at Kaka Point.
Individual Awards:
Nathan White for his outstanding service to the community through Nathan’s Taxis, and for his valued contribution to theatre and church. Nathan received five nominations for this award, which shows the high regard the community has for him.
Salu Hakeelah Tuia receives the Ta’avili Award her extraordinary service, quiet leadership, and dedication to the Pasifika community in the Clutha District. Salu has helped protect, guide, and uplift Pasifika youth, seasonal workers, and newly arrived families.
Iosefa Setu in recognition of his extraordinary leadership, deep faith, and generous service to the Clutha District community. Iosefa funded the Samoan Society and helped create a welcoming place where newly arrived families, seasonal workers, and minority communities can find support, belonging, and guidance.
Jeannine Basquin has given more than 20 years of outstanding service to the Taieri Mouth community. As a long-standing member of the Taieri Mouth Amenities Society, including 17 years as President, she has provided steady leadership, practical support, and unwavering dedication.
Joel Crook since joining the Project Bruce Charitable Trust Board in 2022 has supported local projects with a steady, positive, and hands-on approach. Joel has also contributed to the Milton Menz Shed and supported the Milton Rotary Tramping Club for about 40 years.
Kirsty Nicol has given more than 10 years of outstanding service to the Kaitangata Black Gold BMX Club. As Chairperson, she supports riders, families, and the wider BMX community with energy, care, and commitment.
Sue Harrex and Pam Hunter are both receiving individual awards for their work connected through the Mainly Music Clutha Valley group. They have both for more than 20 years helped to create a warm and welcoming place where young families can come together to enjoy music and movement and make friends.
Youth Spirit Award – Jorja Andrews (South Otago High School) in recognition of her outstanding leadership, confidence and commitment to her school and community. Certificates of Merit went to: Bella Paterson and Rashaun Melvin.
