Local good sorts celebrated at Kāpiti Coast community awards

Kāpiti Coast’s community spirit was celebrated last night at Te Raukura ki Kāpiti as local volunteers, leaders, and organisations were recognised at the 2026 Kāpiti Good Sorts and Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards. 

Hosted by Kāpiti Coast District Council in partnership with Wellington Airport, the event acknowledged individuals and groups whose generosity, service, and leadership helps make Kāpiti a vibrant and connected district. 

Kāpiti Coast District Mayor Janet Holborow said the awards are an opportunity to shine a light on people who lead with an unwavering commitment to others.

“This year, we had 32 nominations for our Good Sorts awards. The high calibre of nominations reflects just how many amazing volunteers support our community,” said Mayor Holborow. 

“It’s always difficult for the panel to choose winners because in our books, they’re all taking action and making a difference for those who call Kāpiti home.” 

Good Sorts awards were given to Noella Squire, Emma Upton, Thomas Wolff, Neil Shipman, Tim Upton, Jonathan Mines, Rachel Thompson, Tara Sheerin, Eric Robinson and Alan Tinney. 

Three individuals also received Mayoral Awards, highlighting both intergenerational leadership and the legacy of service. 

• A Taonga Maumahara Award was presented posthumously to the whānau of Bruce Henderson. Bruce was a champion of safer infrastructure, community cycling programmes, and the expansion of the district’s trail networks. 
• The Rangatahi Award went to Jack Stephens, an outstanding member of the Youth Council who regularly takes on leadership roles, chairs meetings, and leads youth-focused initiatives. 
• The Mayoral Award was presented to Ricki Baker – an uri of the three mana whenua iwi of the Kāpiti Coast, Ngāti Raukawa, Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai, and Ngāti Toa Rangatira. Ricki is held in the highest regard across the district, the wider Wellington and Manawatū regions, and beyond. His service to whānau, hapū, iwi, and the wider community reflects a life given generously to others. 

A special acknowledgement was also made to Mary Gow in recognition of her King’s Service Medal for her services to music. 

In addition to the Good Sorts Awards, 35 Kāpiti-based organisations were nominated for the Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards, and last night the following category winners were announced. 

• Arts and Culture: The Kilns at Te Horo 
• Education and Child Development: Multicultural Educational Campaign NZ 
• Health and Wellbeing: Hora Te Pai Health Services 
• Heritage and Environment: Ngā Uruora Kāpiti Project 
• Sports and Leisure: Ōtaki Surf Lifesaving Club 
• Rising Star Award: Otaihanga Zero Waste 
• 2026 Supreme Award: Hora Te Pai Health Services 

These organisations will go on to represent Kāpiti at the Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards finals later this year. 

“Congratulations to all nominees, runners-up and winners, you’re our local legends and we’re grateful for your service,” said Mayor Holborow.