Tireless volunteers were honoured on Thursday (3 October) as Waikato District Council’s Mayor Jacqui Church handed out the 2024 Mayoral Community Awards.

Twenty-three recipients were nominated for the awards by Mayor Jacqui, councillors, community boards and community committees.

Mayor Jacqui also decided to present awards to all volunteer fire brigades in the district, to recognise their roles in our communities goes beyond firefighting – whether it them being first responders to car crashes; leading the charge during civil defence emergencies or responding to medical emergencies.

About 100 people were present at the awards ceremony, including friends and family of those who received awards.

Mayor Jacqui said she was privileged to host the awards ceremony as a display of gratitude to the selfless and giving people who call the Waikato district home.

“Your generous nature helps us fulfil our council’s vision of creating Liveable, Thriving and Connected communities and I don’t know where we would be without you.

“You are the strength and fabric of our district, working selflessly behind the scenes to build up the strong bonds of resilience that keep our community thriving,” she said.

“You are the shining stars of our communities and we are honoured to be able to show, in a small way, our appreciation for you and all the work you do.”