The head of Weta Workshop, the founder of the World
of WearableArt festival and an Auckland plastic surgeon have been
shortlisted for New Zealander of the Year.
Now in their third year, the awards recognise New Zealanders who have made extraordinary contributions to their communities.
Last year's winner was scientist Sir Paul Callaghan.
Weta
Workshop co-founder Richard Taylor has been nominated for representing
New Zealand in the international movie industry, with Weta companies
working on projects including the Lord of the Rings, Avatar and the
Narnia films.
Sir Richard is described as a legend who shows New Zealanders what can be achieved, while remaining true to Kiwi values.
World
of WearableArt's founder, Dame Suzie Moncrieff, was nominated for 25
years of work growing the festival from a 1987 Nelson art gallery
promotion to a global art and design competition, which showcases New
Zealand as a place of inspiration and creativity.
Hutt
Hospital-trained plastic surgeon Dr Sharad Paul has been nominated for
his groundbreaking treatment of skin cancer, which includes the
development of a new skin graft surgery.
His Auckland Skin Surgery
Clinic gives more than 5000 free skin cancer checks a year, and he also
runs a bookstore to help fund literacy programmes in low-decile
Auckland schools.
The finalists for Young New Zealander of the
Year are Christchurch Student Volunteer Army founder Sam Johnson,
award-winning Southland science student Bailey Lovett, and Auckland
youth advocate Elizabeth Chan.
Other finalists:
Senior New Zealander of the Year:
- Napier community trust founder Pat Magill, blind advocate Don McKenzie and social entrepreneur Malcolm Cameron.
Local Heroes:
-
Pike River Mine family spokesman Bernie Monk, Farmy Army's John
Hartnell and Hastings anti-violence campaigner Henare O'Keefe.
Community of the Year:
- Christchurch Charity Hospital, Paeroa Community and The Asian Events Trust.
The winners will be announced in Auckland on February 16.
NZN