The Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards Gala, held on Saturday night, was a celebration of community spirit  in the Wakatipu Basin. Hosted by the Wakatipu Community Foundation, along with major sponsors Gibbston Valley,  the event honored local individuals, organizations, and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to making the region a better place to live, work, and thrive.

The 14 awards recognized achievements across various categories, reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of the Wakatipu community. From environmental advocates to business leaders and volunteers, the winners embody the heart of this beautiful region.

The Heart of the Wakatipu Mayoral Awards was awarded to five outstanding local champions -  Charlie Phillips, Nanette Bennington, Vanessa van Uden, Craig “Ferg” Ferguson, and Ken McIntyre.  

 “I was very surprised by this award”,  said Charlie Phillips “but grateful for being recognised for my efforts. QRC directors Mark Taylor and the late Sir Eion Edgar always encouraged community contribution - allowing me to become involved.  I would like to congratulate the Wakatipu Community Foundation for hosting this event. It’s so refreshing to reflect on the positive impacts and selfless contribution made by our residents.”

The People’s Choice Award sponsored by Mountain Scene was won by Jamie and Chris Seymour who created Queenstown Parkrun.

Steve Brent, Chair of the Wakatipu Community Foundation,  said, "The Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards are a testament to the resilience, innovation, and generosity of our community. Each winner represents the very best of Wakatipu, and we are incredibly proud to honor them tonight. Our theme this year was dream big, and we challenge everyone to consider their dream for our community and what their legacy might be.”

The Wakatipu Community Foundation is very grateful to all the nominees, attendees, sponsors, and in particular major sponsor Gibbston Valley who made this year’s gala a resounding success.

About the Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards:The Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards were established to honor individuals and organizations making a positive impact on the Wakatipu Basin. Held bi-annually, the awards focus on community service, leadership, environmental conservation, and business excellence.

2024 Award Winners:

EDUCATION:  Sponsored by Jarden

Recognising those making outstanding contributions to learning in the Wakatipu

Trevor and Agnieszka Gile – Liger Leadership Academy

​HEALTH & WELL-BEING:  Sponsored by Findex

Recognising contributions to the health and wellbeing of our community

Debbie Swain-Rewi – Glenorchy Community Trust

​SPORT & RECREATION:  Sponsored by Deloitte

Recognising those committed and dedicated to enriching the lives of those in the Wakatipu through sport and active recreation

Queenstown Mountain Bike Club

​ARTS & CULTURE:  Sponsored by Sky City

Recognising those who make a significant contribution to the arts and culture in our community

Emma Wilson  -  Turn up the Music

​RESILIENCE:  Sponsored by PowerNet

Recognising those who care and those who come to our aid whenever the call is made

Ed Halson - LandSAR

​SENIOR SUPPORT:  Sponsored by Eichardt’s

Recognising those individuals, groups and organisations making a positive difference in the lives of the Wakatipu’s seniors

QLDC  - Leisurely Programme

YOUTH IMPACT:  Sponsored by Walker & Co

Recognising contributions to youth services

Whakatipu Youth Trust

​ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Recognising contributions to environment

Chris Dagg – Environmental Stewardship

SOCIAL IMPACT INNOVATOR:  Sponsored by Duncan Cotterill

Recognising contributions to growing giving and social impact

Julia Strelou – Inspirational Womens Awards

​CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP:  Sponsored by Brannigans

Recognising organisations dedicated to making the Wakatipu a smarter, safer, healthier and more sustainable place

Mountain Club

​COMMUNITY SERVICE:  Sponsored by Queenstown Airport Corporation

Recognising community champions who exemplify serving community before self

Inner Wheel Club of Queenstown

​RISING STAR (Under 25):  Sponsored by Mountain Club

Recognising youth (under 25yr) making positive change in the Wakatipu

Girls Who Grow – Wakatipu High School Ellie Kerr, Lucy Boniface, Lucy Thompson, Manuella Sanches Pedrosa.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD: Sponsored by Mountain Scene

Jamie and Chris Seymour – Queenstown Parkrun

HEART OF THE WAKATIPU AWARDS: Sponsored by QLDC

Charlie Phillips

Craig “Ferg” Ferguson

Ken McIntrye

Nanette Bennington

Vanessa van Uden