Name: 2026 Western Bay Community Awards
Start: 2026-03-19T07:30:00+13:00
End: 2026-03-19T11:30:00+13:00
Location: Holy Trinity Tauranga Church

Join us in celebrating the Western Bay Community Awards at Holy Trinity Tauranga on Thursday, 19 March 2026!
The awards bring together all involved in the Western Bay's community and volunteer sector; to celebrate and acknowledge their incredible community work that is helping make the Western Bay of Plenty one of the greatest places to live.
The Western Bay Community Awards are divided into seven categories.
- Community Event Award: Recognises a community-led event that not only excelled in its planning and delivery but also made a positive impact on the community by creating memorable experiences and strengthening communal ties.
- Sustainable Future Award: Recognises those who have implemented innovative projects or practices that protect and enhance the environment or who have embedded sustainability into the core of their operations. It celebrates forward-thinking initiatives that address climate challenges and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
- Diversity and Inclusion Award: Recognises efforts that break down barriers, create opportunities for all, and cultivate an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. It recognises a commitment to embracing differences and building a more inclusive, equitable community for everyone.
- Heart of the Community Award: Recognises a group who have made an extraordinary impact through selfless dedication and unwavering commitment, embodying the true spirit of community by uplifting others and fostering a sense of togetherness that resonates throughout the community.
- Youth Spirit Award: Recognises an inspiring individual under 25 who exemplifies the essence of community spirit through their contributions and dedication. A young person who actively engages in their community, makes a positive difference, and serves as a role model for their peers. Their passion, leadership, and commitment to helping others reflect the vibrant potential of our future leaders.
- Volunteer of the Year Award: Recognises an exceptional individual whose dedication and selfless contributions have made a profound impact on the community. A volunteer who has gone above and beyond in their service, demonstrating unwavering commitment, passion, and generosity in their efforts to uplift and support others. Their outstanding contributions embody the true spirit of volunteerism and community service.
- Best Collaboration Award: Recognises community organisations and/or individuals who have joined forces to achieve a common goal, creating a positive change or trying a new initiative. Whether through a joint project, innovative partnership, or collective initiatives, this award celebrates the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change and creating lasting impact.
- A People's Choice Award is open throughout February for the general public to vote on their favourite finalist.
- A Lifetime Service Award winner may also be announced on the awards show night.
The 2026 award Finalists have been announced and are currently being showcased via TECT's Facebook page from January 12 to February 13 2026, which will then be culminated with the awards ceremony at Holy Trinity on Thursday 19 March 2025, where the winners will be announced.
All nomination and award evening information is available via the Western Bay Community Awards webpage https://www.tect.org.nz/community-awards-2026/
Get your tickets here: https://httvenues.nz/so/tr/2161ee55-99a5-45fb-a67b-f3f3fece3d6c/c?w=usgD5M6vomqWvnKq3hTlknanC7sk1VgTXgrdxsofphs.eyJ1IjoiaHR0cHM6Ly93aXguYXBwL2V2ZW50cy83ZTNmYWNmMi1iMTFmLTQyMzAtYjhlYy0xNDNlMTk4MWJkMTgvNmYwOTM5YmUtNjIzZS00ZjAzLTkyOTMtYzc4MTc5YTcxMzZhL2RldGFpbHM_ZD1odHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy5odHR2ZW51ZXMubnolMkZldmVudC1kZXRhaWxzJTJGd2VzdGVybi1iYXktY29tbXVuaXR5LWF3YXJkcy0yMDI2IiwiciI6ImMxMjE5MzU1LWRkMDgtNGNhNi04NTRiLTY5YjFmYWViOThlZCIsImMiOiIwYjkyODczYS05Nzk0LTQ5OWUtOGFkZi0zY2FmMTkyOWQwNGEiLCJtIjoibWFpbCIsInJpIjoiMGI5Mjg3M2EtOTc5NC00OTllLThhZGYtM2NhZjE5MjlkMDRhIiwicnQiOiJDb250YWN0In0
The Western Bay Community Awards are delivered by TECT, Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.