In the run-up to the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards, five HB individuals have been recognised on Kiwibank’s initial list of 100 New Zealand Heroes. Final winners will be announced in March 2025.

Here’s what Kiwibank had to say about them, some instantly recognisable, some with lower profiles in the broader community.

Craig Little

Hailing from the heart of Wairoa, Mayor Craig Little is passionate about his community. With a background as a farmer and a former electrician, he got involved in local government because he wanted to improve his community and make sure their voices were heard loud and clear. His commitment was especially evident after Cyclone Gabrielle and the recent River Mouth floods, where he played a vital role in helping Wairoa recover. 

Craig’s unwavering positivity and readiness to take action for his hometown reflect his deep sense of responsibility and pride. Whether it’s personally covering the travel costs for a young rugby player travelling from Wairoa to Napier each week, or standing up against unfair central and regional decisions – Craig consistently puts the needs of Wairoa first. He shuns the spotlight, preferring instead to quietly work for the betterment of his community; a true embodiment of Kiwi resilience and leadership.

Henare O’Keefe

Henare O’Keefe is a living legend in Te Matau-a-Māui Hawke’s Bay, known for his humble, proactive approach to combatting violence and uplifting disadvantaged communities. 

A man on a mission, Henare empowers individuals through practical initiatives, such as the Flaxmere Community Garden and Flaxmere Boxing Academy – creating spaces for locals to feel a sense of belonging. This drive extends to his home-life: for over two decades, Henare and his wife Pam have fostered more than 200 children, opening their doors with love and compassion. A dedicated advocate for social change, Henare rallied the community around the “Enough is Enough” hikoi (march), galvanising public action against violence. His mobile BBQ, Tunu Tunu, has fed hundreds of families – often working from midnight through to early hours of the morning. 

Today, his impact extends nationwide as he shares his message of love in schools and communities, earning accolades such as the Queen’s Service Medal.

Nadine Gaunt

Nadine Gaunt is the founder of Re-Source, a charity in Heretaunga Hastings dedicated to helping those in need through the reuse, repair, and recycling of clothing, furniture, and essential items. Over the past four years, Nadine has built an extensive network, collaborating with over 100 organisations and volunteers to provide swift assistance to families and individuals in crisis. 

Re-Source is on call 24/7 with Fire and Emergency New Zealand, offering crucial items to victims of fires, while also reducing landfill waste by repurposing items like old pillows and fabric. Nadine works closely with community support organisations and kura (schools) to target need. She liaises with local organisation Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga, Plunket and the MSD to get items where they are most needed in the community. 

During cyclone Gabrielle, Nadine worked 16 hour days for 18 days straight – coordinating to get essential bedding and clothing to local people who had lost everything. Her compassion, dedication, and leadership have not only supported local communities but have also saved hundreds of thousands of items from landfill, making her the heart of Re-Source and a true champion for those in need.

The Reverend Zhane Tiopira Tāhau

The Reverend Zhane Tiopira Tāhau (Ngāti Kahungunu) is a young community leader who has made it his mission to support the spiritual wellbeing of Māori communities in Hawkes Bay. 

Zhane was ordained in the Māori Anglican Church at just 23 years old, and dedicates his life to the pastoral care of the marae and many people of Te Mātau-ā-Maui Hawkes Bay. He was instrumental in leading the wairua (spiritual) response during the disaster recovery and aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. This work was recognised by a Civic Honour Award for Cyclone Recovery from Hastings District Council. 

He plays an instrumental role in leading hapū and community events and bringing people together, including the recent Hui Taumata (Hui-ā-motu) at Ōmāhu marae– bringing together over 3,000 participants, including Kiingi Tuheitia and various iwi – to discuss Te Kōtahitanga and identify solutions to action Māori unity. From this hui, alongside prominent Māori leaders he became a member of Te Amorangi ki Mua, the working group for Te Kōtahitanga (National Māori Unity). At the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, Zhane broadcasted karakia online, sharing inspirational messages with over 30,000 followers on Tiktok and Facebook. 

He currently works and serves his hapū full-time, leading their cultural recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle, and is a tireless servant to his people whether it be leading during times of mourning/grief or celebration. Zhane is a constant kanohi kitea (seen face) and spiritual leader amongst his people.

Tony Smith

Tony Smith is a compassionate and philanthropic individual deeply committed to supporting his community. In the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle, Tony and his wife Nicky moved to Te Matau-a-Māui Hawke’s Bay, dedicating their time to help those who lost homes and loved ones. 

Working part-time as a project manager, Tony spends his Thursdays, Fridays, and weekends volunteering with various organisations, contributing tirelessly to the region’s recovery. But even before the move to Hawke’s Bay, Tony’s was known for his generosity and selflessness: launching “The Burpee Mile,” fundraiser to power Kaleidocare, a Franklin-based organisation that supports youth with complex health and social needs. 

Humble and down-to-earth, Tony avoids the spotlight – always shifting focus to the communities and causes he supports. His dedication to making a positive impact has inspired many, and he continues to mobilise others to volunteer and assist in local recovery efforts.