This award recognises a group or individual who tell meaningful stories that reflect the diverse arts, cultural, bi-cultural, and heritage landscape in Waikirikiri Selwyn, and celebrating the rural and small townships of the district. Recipients of this award demonstrate a commitment to reducing barriers to participation across arts, culture, and/or heritage by fostering inclusive environments and creating opportunities for our community to express their creativity, to be heard, supported, and connected with one another. They showcase and celebrate our past knowledge and collective stories, marking where we have been and where we are going.

This award celebrates individuals or groups who have dedicated their time, skills, and resources to creating positive change within the community. Whether through volunteer work, advocacy, or community focused initiatives, the recipient has shown exceptional commitment to improving the lives of others. They build a shared future, where enduring and collaborative relationships are built on trust, reciprocity, commitment and mutual respect. The work this recipient does contributes to this vision of a safe, supportive and connected Waikirikiri Selwyn.  

This award recognises groups or businesses that have made a significant impact in promoting and enhancing Waikirikiri Selwyn's tourism or hospitality reputation. It celebrates those who actively highlight the district’s unique attractions, whether in rural/small townships or larger centres, and provide memorable, high-quality experiences. Recipients demonstrate excellence in customer service and operational expertise, playing a vital role in driving the growth and sustainability of the local tourism or hospitality industry.

This award recognises a business or group that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming community in the Waikirikiri Selwyn district. This award celebrates those who actively promote equality, respect, and understanding across cultural, social, and personal backgrounds, creating opportunities for all individuals to thrive. Diversity is essential as it enriches the workplace, fosters innovation, and strengthens the community by bringing together a range of perspectives and experiences. By embracing diversity, these businesses and groups help build a more inclusive and resilient environment, benefiting both the local economy and society as a whole.

This award recognises an individual, group, or business that has made a significant contribution to environmental sustainability or the regeneration of natural ecosystems and environments within Waikirikiri Selwyn’s unique areas including our rural landscapes. This award celebrates efforts to protect and restore the local environment, promote biodiversity, and use sustainable practices that create prosperous outcomes for both the present and the future. By championing innovative solutions and fostering a deeper connection to nature, the recipient demonstrates a commitment to building a greener, more sustainable future.

This award celebrates businesses that create innovative solutions to meet commercial and community needs. This award recognises those that are strengthening existing businesses, building support networks and closing productivity gaps to boost the local economy. It also recognises efforts to adopt new technologies, develop groundbreaking products, and explore new industries, fostering innovation, growth, and lasting positive impact for Selwyn.

This award recognises an individual or group that has made a notable contribution to promoting play, active recreation, and/or sport within the district. It celebrates those who inspire and empower others to embrace active lifestyles, fostering a culture of health, wellness, and positive living for people of all ages and backgrounds. By creating opportunities for the community to connect, stay active, and enhance their overall wellbeing, recipients play a vital role in promoting a healthier, more vibrant community.

This Award recognises a startup business, under 3 years old, that has demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, and ambition within the Waikirikiri Selwyn district. This award celebrates businesses making a positive impact by contributing to the local economy, creating job opportunities, and fostering a strong sense of community. It highlights those with a forward-thinking vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to shaping the future of Selwyn’s business landscape.

The Young Contributor Award recognises a young person under 25 years of age who makes a lasting, positive impact on the Waikirikiri Selwyn community. This award celebrates those who are contributing to meaningful change and innovation, recognising their ability to shape a brighter future for themselves and for Selwyn through their passion, vision, and dedication. The recipient will navigate challenges, embrace opportunities, and shape a resilient future. By fostering leadership, participation, and social responsibility, this award acknowledges young changemakers who are inspiring their peers and strengthening the future and future generations of Waikirikiri Selwyn.

The Selwyn community has the opportunity to vote for an individual, business or group, who they believe exemplifies outstanding qualities and contributions to the Selwyn district.