People making a difference across the Waikato district have been recognised through Waikato District Council’s Mayoral Community Awards.
Hosted by Mayor Aksel Bech, the annual awards celebrated individuals, groups and organisations whose dedication and service help strengthen their communities.
Hine Timothy
Category: Making a Difference
Hine Timothy was recognised for more than a decade of volunteer service to the Huntly community.
As a longstanding volunteer at the Huntly Community Hub, Hine has helped sort and distribute rescued food to families experiencing hardship, ensuring valuable resources reach those who need them most.
She was involved in the early days of Huntly Kids Kitchen, an initiative that has supported local tamariki and whānau for many years.
Hine has also volunteered with the Community Health Shuttle, providing companionship and practical assistance to people attending medical appointments.
She is now involved in programmes supporting kaumātua wellbeing, including Age Concern initiatives, Strong and Steady classes and a kaumātua lunch programme aimed at reducing isolation.
Her quiet leadership and commitment to helping others have enriched the lives of many people across Huntly.
Julie Lynch
Category: Making a Difference
Julie Lynch has been a dedicated member of the Taupiri School community for more than 20 years.
She has run the school’s Wednesday programme, often contributing from her own pocket to create opportunities and positive experiences for local children.
Julie has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure tamariki feel encouraged and included, while receiving the support they need to reach their potential.
Her care and commitment have had a lasting impact on families across Taupiri. She has continued to give her time without seeking recognition, becoming a valued pillar of the community.
Nga Mako Totorewa
Category: Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture
At 23, Nga Mako Totorewa has already made a significant contribution to sport and youth development in the Waikato.
She played an important role in establishing the Rangiriri Storm Rugby League Club and Te Rua o Tarakookoomako Waka Club, which operate under the Rangiriri Cultural Sports Club.
The clubs use sport to engage whānau and reconnect people with their whakapapa and heritage.
Nga Mako coaches tai tamariki in paddling techniques, steering and water safety through the waka club. She also takes on the demanding job of towing four 15-metre waka ama canoes to practices and events.
At Rangiriri Storm, she coaches the under-10s, co-coaches the senior women’s team and serves on the club committee, helping organise team activities and pre-season campaigns.
Di Morris
Category: Making a Difference
Di Morris was recognised for her contribution to the Onewhero community through emergency response, community preparedness and animal welfare.
A valued member of the Onewhero Fire Brigade, Di specialises in medical response as a qualified first responder and trainer. She also volunteers with St John, attending to patients and serving as an ambulance driver.
Di has been instrumental in the development of the Onewhero Community Response Group.
As one of its three original members, she helped develop the community response plan and continues to play a key role in reviewing it.
Her love of dogs has also benefited the community. Di cares for lost dogs until their owners can be found and helps arrange new homes when needed.
Her practical support and commitment to others have made her one of Onewhero’s most valued community members.
